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Botelho-Fontela S, Paixão G, Pereira-Pinto R, Vaz-Velho M, Pires MA, Payan-Carreira R, Patarata L, Lorenzo JM, Silva A, Esteves A. The effects of different immunocastration protocols on meat quality traits and boar taint compounds in male Bísaro pigs. Theriogenology 2024; 214:89-97. [PMID: 37862942 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Immunocastration can be an alternative to surgical castration in Bísaro pigs when there is a need to keep animals on the farm until at least 8 months old. As an autochthonous breed, some particularities must be addressed when doing immunocastration, for which 3 different protocols were tested and two control groups were made with surgically castrated males (SC) and boars (Bo). Two protocols were made in prepubertal pigs, with two (E2) and three inoculations (L3) in the first cycle, and another in adults (A2) with only two inoculations. Physicochemical parameters and boar taint compounds quantification and sensory analysis of the meat from the studied pigs were assessed. Immunocastration provided intermediate values between surgically castrated pigs and entire males, with low levels of boar taint compounds. The L3 group provided closer results to SC, which was also corroborated by the sensory analysis. Although the other two protocols had no significant differences with Bo, there was a positive tendency towards them. As is, the L3 protocol was promising as a good alternative to surgical castration, maintaining the characteristic attributes of the Bísaro pig meat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Botelho-Fontela
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), AL4AnimalS, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801, Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Gustavo Paixão
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), AL4AnimalS, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801, Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Ricardo Pereira-Pinto
- CISAS - Center for Research and Development in Agrifood Systems and Sustainability, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4900-347, Viana do Castelo, Portugal.
| | - Manuela Vaz-Velho
- CISAS - Center for Research and Development in Agrifood Systems and Sustainability, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4900-347, Viana do Castelo, Portugal.
| | - Maria A Pires
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), AL4AnimalS, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801, Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Rita Payan-Carreira
- CHRC - Comprehensive Health Research Centre & Department de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, 7002, Évora, Portugal.
| | - Luís Patarata
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), AL4AnimalS, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801, Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - José M Lorenzo
- Centro Tecnológico de la Carne de Galicia 4, 32900, San Cibrao das Viñas, Spain.
| | - António Silva
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), AL4AnimalS, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801, Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Alexandra Esteves
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), AL4AnimalS, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801, Vila Real, Portugal.
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Pérez-Ciria L, Miana-Mena FJ, Falceto MV, Mitjana O, Latorre MA. Effect of Immunocastration and Diet on Growth Performance, Serum Metabolites and Sex Hormones, Reproductive Organ Development and Carcass Quality of Heavy Gilts. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11071900. [PMID: 34202346 PMCID: PMC8300150 DOI: 10.3390/ani11071900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is desirable to increase fatness in gilts destined for Teruel dry-cured ham production. A total of 192 Duroc × (Landrace × Large White) gilts of 40.3 ± 4.80 kg body weight (BW) were used to assess the impact of immunocastration and feeding on growth performance, serum metabolites and sex hormones, reproductive organ development, and carcass quality. Six treatments were arranged factorially (2 × 3) with two types of gilt (entire gilts (EG) vs. immunocastrated gilts (IG)) and three experimental diets (control vs. high energy vs. low crude protein and amino acids) provided from 76 to 134 kg BW (n = 4 per treatment, being the replicate the pen with eight pigs). Immunocastration was carried out at 58 and 77 kg BW. The IG grew faster and showed lighter reproductive tracts and greater fatness than EG. The experimental feeds had limited effect on carcass quality, but the high-energy diet improved gain-to-feed ratio and the low-protein and -amino-acids diet did not impair growth performance. In conclusion, immunocastration was a better strategy than the tested diets to increase the fatness of gilts intended for Teruel dry-cured ham, although increasing energy or decreasing crude protein and amino acid levels in the diet could be beneficial strategies for pig farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Pérez-Ciria
- Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Francisco Javier Miana-Mena
- Departamento de Farmacología y Fisiología, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - María Victoria Falceto
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; (M.V.F.); (O.M.)
| | - Olga Mitjana
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; (M.V.F.); (O.M.)
| | - Maria Angeles Latorre
- Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain;
- Correspondence:
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Cardoso L, Rodrigues L, Fontes D, Allison J, Chiarini-Garcia H, Almeida F. Ovarian morphometrical evaluation to assess reproductive activity suppression in heavy weight finishing gilts immunized against gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Res Vet Sci 2021; 136:519-526. [PMID: 33882380 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
It is known that immunizing gilts against gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is an efficient castration method that increases their growth performance. However, it is still unknown the ovarian histophysiology outcomes after this procedure. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate in detail, using morphological and morphometrical methods, changes in the ovarian structure that result in the suppression of ovarian activity, as well as to gain knowledge on the ovarian structure to assist in ovarian histopathological diagnoses. Seventy-two pre-pubertal finishing gilts were allocated to two experimental groups: immunized (IC; n = 36; gilts which received two injections of 2 mL of Vivax® - one at 15 and another at 19 weeks of age) and control (CT; n = 36, females which received two saline injections following the same protocol). All gilts were euthanized at 25 weeks of age and the ovaries of 5 gilts from each experimental group collected for biometrical and histomorphometrical analysis. IC gilts showed higher body weights, but smaller ovaries compared to CT females. In addition, the number of small follicles (≤ 2 mm) on the ovarian surface was higher, while no large follicles (> 6 mm) nor corpora lutea were found in the ovaries of IC gilts. Histomorphometrical analysis revealed that IC females showed higher numbers of quiescent and active primordial, primary, pre-antral and final stage atretic follicles. Moreover, follicle size, antrum diameter and area of the granulosa layer from mature follicles were smaller in IC gilts. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the efficacy of immunization against GnRH is related to the blockage of follicular recruitment and selection, thus suppressing reproductive activity in finishing gilts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Cardoso
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lucas Rodrigues
- Prairie Swine Centre, Inc., S7H 5N9, 2105 - 8th Street East, Canada; Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, S7N 5A8, 51 Campus Drive, Canada
| | - Dalton Fontes
- Department of Animal Science, Veterinary School, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jim Allison
- Zoetis, 10 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054, USA
| | - Helio Chiarini-Garcia
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Almeida
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31.270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Immunocastration in Gilts: A Preliminary Study of the Effect of the Second Dose Administration Time on Growth, Reproductive Tract Development, and Carcass and Meat Quality. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020510. [PMID: 33669212 PMCID: PMC7919812 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Nowadays, a significant proportion of pig carcasses destined to high-quality dry-cured ham elaboration are declared unsuitable for this purpose. The main reason is the lack of backfat thickness, affecting females in particular because males are castrated. Moreover, the estrus in gilts is undesirable because it carries out productive losses. Immunocastration could resolve these problems. The protocol of immunocastration in white-breed gilts is not well established, especially in terms of the second injection. Therefore, the objective of the current trial was to evaluate the impact of immunocastration and to determine the optimum time for the second dose application in gilts intended for dry-cured ham production. In this trial, we concluded that gilt immunocastration is positive, increasing carcass fatness and decreasing reproductive tract development. Moreover, the optimum time to administer the second dose of immunocastration for this type of gilt seems to be between 9 and 12 weeks before sacrifice. Abstract Increasing fatness and avoiding puberty are desirable in gilts intended for high-quality dry-cured ham production. A total of 48 Duroc x (Landrace x Large White) females of 26.5 ± 3.70 kg body weight (BW) were used to evaluate the impact of immunocastration and to find the optimum application time of the second dose for immunocastration on growth; sex hormones; reproductive tract development; and carcass, meat, and fat quality. Gilts were allocated to four experimental treatments (n = 12): control (entire gilts, EG) and immunocastrated gilts (IG), providing the second dose at 12, 9, or 7 weeks before slaughter (with approximately 60, 75, or 90 kg BW, respectively). Mean slaughter BW was 125 kg. Immunocastrated gilts had lighter reproductive tracts and greater fat thickness than EG. Fat from IG was more saturated and less polyunsaturated than that from EG. Numerically, gilts immunocastrated 9 and 12 weeks before slaughter presented higher fatness than those immunocastrated 7 weeks before slaughter. In conclusion, immunocastration is a good strategy to improve the fatness of gilts destined to dry-cured ham elaboration, with the optimum time for the second dose application seemingly between 9 and 12 weeks before slaughter.
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Allison JRD, da Silva CA, Callegari MA, Dias CP, de Souza KLL, de Oliveira ER, Peloso JV, Poleze E, Mah CK, Lin D, Aldaz A. Immunization against gonadotropin-releasing factor (GnRF) in market gilts: Effect on growth and carcass parameters, and impact of immunization timing. Res Vet Sci 2021; 136:127-137. [PMID: 33609970 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive cycling in fattening gilts can be associated with undesirable effects, such as estrus-related aggressive behavior, reduced feed intake and, in production systems where gilts are co-housed with entire males, unwanted pregnancy. Immunization against Gonadotrophin Releasing Factor (IM) can temporarily suppress ovarian activity, including related negative consequences on animal welfare and productivity. Feed intake has been shown to be higher after IM, resulting in both increased growth and increased carcass fat. A series of studies was conducted to confirm these effects on production and look at their dynamics over time. Three trials were performed to a similar design, each involving 240 gilts divided into 4 experimental groups at 12 weeks of age. One group remained untreated while the others had the two dose, IM course completed 8, 6 or 4 weeks before harvest, which was on a single day at 24, 25 or 26 weeks of age depending on the study. Feed intake was measured daily and bodyweight weekly, allowing growth parameters to be calculated on a weekly basis and for specific longer periods. Carcass weight, backfat depth and lean meat percentage were recorded at harvest. No effects were observed before the second application of the immunological product (V2) and completion of the IM course. Starting in the second week after V2 all IM groups showed a marked and consistent increase in Average Daily Feed Intake (ADFI), typically peaking at over 120% of the control group 3 to 4 weeks after V2 and then slowly declining, but still remaining elevated at 8 weeks. Weekly Average Daily Gain (ADG) showed a similar pattern but with a faster decline, resulting in the initially favorable impact on feed efficiency becoming less favorable as the V2 to harvest interval (V2H) progressed. Carcass weights were higher in IM gilts and backfat depths were greater, with the effects increasing with increasing V2H. Correspondingly, carcass lean meat percentage tended to decrease, although the higher carcass weights meant that the absolute weight of lean meat remained similar or higher. Carcass yield was generally unaffected by IM, but some between-group differences were statistically significant, and it is possible that different factors predominated at different times after V2, creating a complex relationship with V2H duration. The optimum IM protocol will depend on local conditions and production objectives but, as a generalization and assuming ad libitum feeding, a shorter V2H will favor efficient growth, while a longer duration will maximize carcass changes, such as increased fat coverage. It is suggested that the growth performance changes seen after IM in gilts might be viewed as a process of adjustment to a heavier and fatter target body type.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - C A da Silva
- Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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Dalmau A, Martínez-Macipe M, Manteca X, Mainau E. Sex Differences in Group Composition and Habitat Use of Iberian Free-Range Pigs. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:600259. [PMID: 33344534 PMCID: PMC7744786 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.600259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present work was to study group size, group composition and habitat use of Iberian pigs along the year when reared outdoor. This consists of a regimen in which animals are reared free range from 2 months of age until at least 14 months of age. In a first stage, animals are supplemented with concentrates, and in a second, called montanera, pigs eat just natural resources in areas with no more than two pigs per hectare. In these systems, males are castrated to avoid boar taint and females spayed to avoid the attraction and mounting by wild boars. The study was carried out in five different farms allocated in the south-west of Spain during 2 consecutive years, from March 2012 to February 2014, under the montanera regimen, and with a total of 995 animals observed (498 males and 497 females). The data were analyzed with SAS by means of general models and proc mixed. Mean group size along the year was of 17 ± 12.9 individuals, but this was significantly lower (P < 0.05) during the montanera (12 ± 0.8) and at midday (13 ± 0.8). Groups were bigger (P < 0.05) when they were more than 50 m from a tree (23 ± 1.8), or <10 m from the shelter (25 ± 1.5), the feeding area (31 ± 3.1) and the water-bath area (25 ± 1.5). Nine percent of the groups were solitary animals, being higher (P = 0.0286) during the montanera (11%) than the rest of the year (8%) and being formed in 68% by males. Males were less involved in mixed groups than were females (75% vs. 91%), especially in spring, where the largest (P < 0.0001) male groups were found. Female groups were less frequent and smaller (P < 0.0001) than were male and mixed groups. In conclusion, although males were castrated at a very young age, they showed a different behavior than females, forming in bachelor groups during the spring and being less involved in mixed groups and with more solitary animals. During the montanera, when animals were feeding on acorns and other natural resources, groups were smaller and closer to the trees, solitary males reaching a maximum percent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoni Dalmau
- Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), Animal Welfare Program, Girona, Spain
| | - Míriam Martínez-Macipe
- Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), Animal Welfare Program, Girona, Spain
| | - Xavier Manteca
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Veterinary School, Campus Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Eva Mainau
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Veterinary School, Campus Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
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Mitjana O, Bonastre C, Tejedor MT, Garza L, Latorre MÁ, Moreno B, Falceto MV. Immuno-castration of female and male pigs with anti-gonadotrophin releasing hormone vaccine: Morphometric, histopathological and functional studies of the reproductive system. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 221:106599. [PMID: 32980649 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Immuno-castration is increasingly recommended in pigs due to welfare reasons; however, there are few studies in females compared to males. This aim of this study was to investigate the effects of immuno-castration in female and male pigs. The weight, the morphometric and microscopic characteristics of the reproductive organs, and the hormone concentrations were studied in 12 immunocastrated females (IF) and 12 immunocastrated males (IM) and compared with control animals (C). At slaughter, IF tended to have greater body weights than CF (P = 0.051), whereas in IM and CM pigs there were not body weight differences (P = 0.140). The weight of the reproductive tract and size of all individual organs were less in IF compared with CF. Results from histological assessments indicated IF had more atretic follicles and a thinner endometrial mucosa than control females. Hormone concentrations were not different between CF and IF (P > 0.050). As a result of immuno-castration, there was impaired spermatogenesis in most males. Results from microscopic evaluations indicated there was a marked decrease of spermatogonial cells and size of Leydig cells in the testicles. Accessory gland structures were affected in CM and IM with there being differences in gross and microscopic characteristics. Testosterone concentrations, unlike estradiol, were different in IM compared to CM (P < 0.001). These results provide evidence that immuno-castration with the anti-gonadotrophin releasing hormone vaccine is effective in female and male pigs and induces morphological and endocrine changes incompatible with fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Mitjana
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Cristina Bonastre
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mª Teresa Tejedor
- Departamento de Anatomía, Embriología y Genética Animal, CIBERCV, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laura Garza
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mª Ángeles Latorre
- Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 - (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Bernardino Moreno
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 - (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Mª Victoria Falceto
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 - (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
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Environmental and Management Factors Affecting the Time Budgets of Free-Ranging Iberian Pigs Reared in Spain. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10050798. [PMID: 32380690 PMCID: PMC7278481 DOI: 10.3390/ani10050798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Understanding the natural behaviour of pigs in free-range conditions facilitates the interpretation of their behaviour in intensive conditions. The present study aims to study behavioural indicators of activity in the domestic pig, reared free-range and under two feeding regimes, with some help from humans with concentrates and without help, just eating natural resources. Results confirmed that exploratory behaviour was an important behaviour for pigs, but the same animals that dedicated 50% of their time to this activity when they were not fed by humans reduced this activity to 17.8% when they were fed with concentrates. In addition, few social contacts between animals were seen in extensive conditions, with a higher incidence of negative rather than positive social behaviour. It was concluded that: (1) the need for exploring the surroundings in natural environments is of less importance for pigs when they are fed by humans, and (2) bathing areas in outdoor conditions are important for pigs in the event of warm conditions. Overall, it is concluded that natural behaviour of pigs in free-range conditions, such as a reduced foraging behaviour when pigs are fed with concentrates, should be considered when interpreting behavioural needs in intensive conditions. Abstract Understanding the natural behaviour of pigs in free-range conditions facilitates interpretation of their behaviour in intensive conditions. Studying six different farms over two years at different seasons, with climatic and management variations, allowed for a general description of Iberian pig behaviour and which factors have an influence on it. The main activity found was resting (56.5% of the time observed), followed by exploratory behaviour. However, this exploratory behaviour was higher when animals were fed only with natural resources than when fed with concentrates (50% versus 17.8%, respectively). In addition, pigs used bathing areas in summer that were not visited in winter. Negative social behaviour was seen more frequently than positive social behaviour, accounting, in total, for 1% of the total activity of animals. Pigs situated at the centre of the groups tended to remain more relaxed, while the peripheral animals remained more alert and vigilant. Our results indicate that foraging behaviour accounts for a significant proportion of pigs’ active time, but this proportion is much more reduced when pigs are fed concentrates. Therefore, behavioural needs in pigs reared in intensive conditions should consider that exploratory behaviour is reduced when pigs are fed with concentrates.
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Monitoring of behavior, sex hormones and boar taint compounds during the vaccination program for immunocastration in three sire lines. Res Vet Sci 2019; 124:293-302. [PMID: 31026762 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Immunocastration (vaccination against boar taint) is an alternative method to prevent boar taint without the need for surgical castration. This study investigates the evolution of boar taint compounds in serum and fat, serum steroid compounds as well as behavior in immunocastrated pigs from 3 sire lines: 15 stress positive Belgian Piétrain (BP), 20 stress negative French Piétrain (FP), and 20 stress negative Canadian Duroc (CD). Hormone and boar taint compounds in serum were determined at 4 time points; boar taint compounds in fat were determined at 3 time points. Behavior, skin lesions, animal and pen fouling were also recorded before the first vaccination (<V1), between the first and second vaccination (<V2), and after the second vaccination (>V2). Aggressiveness, eating and drinking and general activity behavior declined from <V1 to <V2 and > V2 for all sire lines. Pigs from BP were cleaner than FP and CD pigs. Even though immunocastration was effective in general (reduced testosterone, estradiol as well as androstenone in serum) for all sire lines, some individual pigs showed either androstenone or skatole levels in fat above cutoff values. While the immunocastration mechanism works as intended for androstenone, and also for skatole for the three sire lines, the risk of carcasses with boar taint compounds above cutoff levels (respectively 1.9 and 3.7%) still remains to some extent.
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Xue Y, Zheng W, Zhang F, Rao S, Peng Z, Yao W. Effect of immunocastration on growth performance, gonadal development and carcass and meat quality of SuHuai female pigs. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2019. [DOI: 10.1071/an16733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study was aimed to compare growth performance, gonadal development, carcass characteristic and meat quality among SuHuai entire, immunocastrated and surgically castrated female pigs. Eighty 12-week-old SuHuai gilts were randomly assigned to the following four treatment groups with four pigs per pen and five replicate pens per treatment: control (PBS injection), two-dose Improvac regimen (V2), three-dose Improvac regimen (V3) and surgical castration (S). All pigs had ad libitum access to standard diets and water. The performance and occurrence of oestrus were recorded in the trial. Backfat thickness and loin eye muscle area were recorded ultrasonically. The pigs were slaughtered to measure the weight and size of the uterus, and the weight and activity of the ovaries, to determine the serum concentrations of progesterone, and to evaluate the quality of carcass and meat. There were no significant differences in growth performance among the four groups, except for the V2, which had a better average daily feed intake (P < 0.05). Carcass and meat quality were comparable among the four groups; however, the intramuscular fat in control was higher than the V2 and V3 (P < 0.01). Mean ovary and uterus weights and oestrus of female pigs in V2 and V3 were significantly (P < 0.01) lower than in control, but the difference between the V2 and V3 was not significant. The concentration of progesterone in the control was significantly higher than that in the V2, V3 and S (P < 0.05). These results indicated that immunocastration successfully suppressed gonadal development and had no adverse effects on growth performance, or carcass or meat-quality traits in Chinese SuHuai female pigs.
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Yao Z, Si W, Tian W, Ye J, Zhu R, Li X, Ji S, Zheng Q, Liu Y, Fang F. Effect of active immunization using a novel GnRH vaccine on reproductive function in rats. Theriogenology 2018; 111:1-8. [PMID: 29407422 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 01/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone 2-multiple antigen peptide (GnRH2-MAP) on reproductive function. In our study, 20-day-old male rats (n = 90) were randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups: GnRH2-MAP immunization, GnRH2 immunization, and non-immunized control groups. The immunized animals were administered three doses of GnRH2-MAP or GnRH2 vaccines from 0 to 6 weeks at 2-week intervals. The control group only received oil adjuvant. Blood and right testis samples were collected, and the left testis was weighed and its volume was measured at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks after the first immunization. The serum antibody titer and testosterone concentration were determined by ELISA, and the right testis samples were collected for histological analysis. The results revealed that the serum of vaccinated rats elicited a significantly higher antibody titer and a lower T concentration compared with the control group two weeks after the first immunization (P < 0.05), but the highest antibody titer and lowest T concentration were found in animals treated with GnRH2-MAP (P < 0.05). The second immunization resulted in a significant decrease in testicular weight and volume (P < 0.05) in both immunized groups compared to the control, but these values were significantly lower in the GnRH2-MAP group than in the GnRH2 group. Furthermore, seminiferous tubules revealed more significant atrophy in the GnRH2-MAP group than in the GnRH2 group, and no sperm were observed in rats of the GnRH2-MAP group. Thus, GnRH2-MAP may be an effective antigen and a potential immunocastration vaccine with higher effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiu Yao
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Wenyu Si
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Weiguo Tian
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Rongfei Zhu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Xiumei Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Shichun Ji
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Qianqian Zheng
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Ya Liu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China
| | - Fugui Fang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources Protection and Biological Breeding in Local Livestock and Poultry, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China; Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, Anhui 230036, China.
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Abstract
During oestrus, fattening female pigs are more prone to lameness, fractures and wounds due to mounting and agonistic behaviours of penmates. This study assessed the effect of sexual maturity on the behaviour and welfare of heavy female pigs slaughtered at 36 weeks of age (180±10 kg) for dry-cured ham production. An immunocastrated control group was used for comparison. In all, 56 15-week-old female pigs, individually identifiable by back tattoos were equally distributed among four pens. All animals from two pens were subject to a three-dose immunocastration schedule at 16, 20 and 32 weeks of age. Skin lesions and behaviours were assessed at 18, 23, 28, 33 and 36 weeks of age. A blood sample was collected at 20, 24, 28 and 32 weeks of age for assessing health/stress parameters and GnRH antibodies. At slaughter, ovaries were weighed, measured and histologically examined; stomachs, carcasses and lungs were scored for lesions and a further blood sample was taken. Immunocastrated pigs did not significantly differ from controls in growth rate, feed efficiency and slaughter performances (lung score, gastric score, backfat thickness). However, they showed a lower frequency of aggressive interactions at 33 and 36 weeks, lower front lesions at 28 weeks, but higher at 30 weeks; a lower haptoglobin level at 28 weeks, a lower level of cortisol and back lesions at slaughter (36 weeks). These findings suggest a low, yet not negligible, impact of sexual maturity on the welfare of heavy female pigs.
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Han XF, Li JL, Zhou YQ, Ren XH, Liu GC, Cao XH, Du XG, Zeng XY. Active immunization with GnRH-tandem-dimer peptide in young male rats reduces serum reproductive hormone concentrations, testicular development and spermatogenesis. Asian J Androl 2017. [PMID: 26208395 PMCID: PMC4854110 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.156856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
GnRH sterilization vaccines have been developed for various practical and clinical reasons. However, conjugation of GnRH peptide to carrier protein has many drawbacks, hampering the further commercialization of GnRH vaccines. In this study, a new nonconjugated GnRH vaccine, D-Lys6-GnRH-tandem-dimer peptide (TDK), emulsified in Specol adjuvant was investigated for its immunocastration efficacy in young male rats. Prepubertal male rats were randomly allocated into three groups (n = 12): control (no treatment), surgically castrated or immunized against 100 μg TDK in Specol adjuvant at 6 weeks of age (with a booster 8 weeks later). Blood samples (for antibody titers and hormone concentrations) were collected at 2-week intervals until rats were killed (18 weeks of age). Compared to intact controls, active immunization against TDK reduced (P < 0.05) serum concentrations of testosterone, inhibin B, LH and FSH, prevented the onset of spermatogenesis at puberty. Furthermore, mRNA expressions of GnRH receptor, LH-β and FSH-β in the pituitary, LH receptor, FSH receptor, inhibin α, βA and βB subunit in the testes were decreased in immunocastrated rats compared to intact controls (P < 0.05). These results demonstrate for the first time that GnRH-tandem-dimer peptide emulsified in Specol is a promising veterinary sterilization medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Xian-Yin Zeng
- Isotope Research Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Laboratory, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, People's Republic of China
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Martinez-Macipe M, Rodríguez P, Izquierdo M, Gispert M, Manteca X, Mainau E, Hernández F, Claret A, Guerrero L, Dalmau A. Comparison of meat quality parameters in surgical castrated versus vaccinated against gonadotrophin-releasing factor male and female Iberian pigs reared in free-ranging conditions. Meat Sci 2016; 111:116-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Revised: 08/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Dalmau A, Velarde A, Rodríguez P, Pedernera C, Llonch P, Fàbrega E, Casal N, Mainau E, Gispert M, King V, Slootmans N, Thomas A, Mombarg M. Use of an anti-GnRF vaccine to suppress estrus in crossbred Iberian female pigs. Theriogenology 2015; 84:342-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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16
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Jiang S, Hong M, Su S, Song M, Tian Y, Cui P, Song S, Wang Y, Li F, Fang F. Effect of active immunization against GnRH-I on the reproductive function in cat. Anim Sci J 2015; 86:747-54. [DOI: 10.1111/asj.12355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shudong Jiang
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
| | - Meizhen Hong
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
| | - Shiping Su
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
| | - Min Song
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
| | - Yuan Tian
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
| | - Pei Cui
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
| | - Shuang Song
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
| | - Yaoyao Wang
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
| | - Fubao Li
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding; Hefei Anhui China
- Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and breeding in Sheep of Anhui Province; Hefei Anhui China
| | - Fugui Fang
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resources Protection and Breeding; College of Animal Sciences and Technology; Anhui Agricultural University; Hefei Anhui China
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding; Hefei Anhui China
- Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and breeding in Sheep of Anhui Province; Hefei Anhui China
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Han X, Gu L, Xia C, Feng J, Cao X, Du X, Zeng X, Song T. Effect of immunization against GnRH on hypothalamic and testicular function in rams. Theriogenology 2014; 83:642-9. [PMID: 25433833 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2014] [Revised: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to determine effects of active immunization against GnRH on reproductive function in Tibetan rams. Peripubertal Tibetan rams (n = 30) were randomly and equally allocated into three groups: control (no treatment); surgically castrated; or immunized against 100-μg d-Lys6-GnRH-tandem-dimer peptide conjugated to ovalbumin in Specol adjuvant at 24 weeks of age (with a booster 8 weeks later). Blood samples (for antibody titers and hormone concentrations) were collected at 4-week intervals until rams were killed (40 weeks). Immunization triggered a good antibody response in all immunized rams (P < 0.01). Compared with intact controls, anti-GnRH immunization reduced (P < 0.01) serum concentrations of testosterone, inhibin A, LH, and FSH, and it induced testicular atrophy (suppression of spermatogenesis). Androstenone concentrations in fat tissues of GnRH-immunized rams were also rendered nondetectable (P < 0.001). Furthermore, mRNA expressions of GnRH receptor, LH-β, and FSH-β in the pituitary and of LH receptor, FSH receptor, and inhibin α and βA subunits in the testes were decreased in immunized rams compared with intact controls (P < 0.05). This was apparently the first report that active immunization against GnRH-tandem-dimer-ovalbumin conjugate in Specol adjuvant was an effective alternative to surgical castration for Tibetan rams under practical Tibetan plateau conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingfa Han
- Isotope Research Lab, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, P.R. China
| | - Longjun Gu
- Isotope Research Lab, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, P.R. China
| | - Chenyang Xia
- Institute of Animal Science, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, P.R. China
| | - Jing Feng
- Institute of Animal Science, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohan Cao
- Isotope Research Lab, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, P.R. China
| | - Xiaogang Du
- Isotope Research Lab, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, P.R. China
| | - Xianyin Zeng
- Isotope Research Lab, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, P.R. China.
| | - Tianzeng Song
- Institute of Animal Science, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, P.R. China.
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Kaur K, Prabha V. Immunocontraceptives: new approaches to fertility control. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:868196. [PMID: 25110702 PMCID: PMC4119744 DOI: 10.1155/2014/868196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The rapidly increasing global population has bowed the attention of family planning and associated reproductive health programmes in the direction of providing a safe and reliable method which can be used to limit family size. The world population is estimated to exceed a phenomenal 10 billion by the year 2050 A.D., thus presenting a real jeopardy of overpopulation with severe implications for the future. Despite the availability of contraceptive methods, there are over one million elective abortions globally each year due to unintended pregnancies, having devastating impact on reproductive health of women worldwide. This highlights the need for the development of newer and improved contraceptive methods. A novel contraceptive approach that is gaining substantial attention is "immunocontraception" targeting gamete production, gamete outcome, or gamete function. Amongst these, use of sperm antigens (gamete function) seems to be an exciting and feasible approach. However, the variability of immune response and time lag to attain titer among vaccinated individuals after active immunization has highlighted the potential relevance of preformed antibodies in this league. This review is an attempt to analyze the current status and progress of immunocontraceptive approaches with respect to their establishment as a future fertility control agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiranjeet Kaur
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Vijay Prabha
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
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Herbert CA, Eckery DC, Trigg TE, Cooper DW. Chronic treatment of female tammar wallabies with deslorelin implants during pouch life: effects on reproductive maturation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 25:879-89. [DOI: 10.1071/rd12087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Accepted: 07/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study reports on attempts to delay puberty in a model marsupial species using the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist deslorelin. Female tammar wallaby pouch young received deslorelin (5 mg) or placebo implants (n = 8/group) when they were 193 ± 2 days old. Sexual maturity was significantly delayed in deslorelin-treated animals, with the first successful production of offspring in treated and control animals occurring at 813 ± 62 and 430 ± 42 days of age, respectively. This delay was associated with a period of retarded pouch and teat development. Progesterone concentrations remained at basal levels throughout the first breeding season, indicating the absence of luteal cycles in treated females. Recovery and maturation of the hypothalamic–pituitary axis was a gradual process. Treated animals failed to respond to GnRH challenge at 12 months of age and had a reduced LH response at 18 months of age, before attaining full responsiveness by 24 months of age. Despite this apparent pituitary recovery by 24 months of age, as evidenced by complete teat eversion and LH responsiveness to GnRH, the time to first parturition was significantly delayed beyond this time in three females. This suggests that there may be longer-lasting effects at the level of the ovary and/or on FSH secretion. The significant delay in the onset of sexual maturation in response to chronic GnRH agonist treatment in this model marsupial species may be of practical significance to the management of fertility in captive and semi-free range marsupial populations.
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Wang SL, Han L, Ahmad S, Cao SX, Xue LQ, Xing ZF, Feng JZ, Liang AX, Yang LG. Effect of a DNA vaccine harboring two copies of inhibin α (1-32) fragments on immune response, hormone concentrations and reproductive performance in rats. Theriogenology 2012; 78:393-401. [PMID: 22592078 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2011] [Revised: 02/18/2012] [Accepted: 02/21/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to investigate the effects of a novel DNA vaccine (pcISI) harboring two copies of inhibin α (1-32) fragments on immune response, hormone concentrations and reproductive performance in rats. Female Wistar rats (n=18 per group) were immunized (twice, 4 wk apart) with 10, 50, or 100 μg (T1, T2 and T3, respectively), of the pcISI plasmid. At 4 wk after the second immunization, plasma antibody titers were higher (P<0.05) in T3 than in either T1 or T2 (0.341±0.123, 0.236±0.068, and 0.251±0.077, respectively, mean±SD). Concurrrently, plasma concentrations of FSH and estradiol were highest (P<0.05) in T3, and were higher (P<0.05) in T1 and T2 than in control groups. For antibody-positive rats, there was a correlation (P<0.01) between antibody titer and FSH concentrations after two pcISI immunizations. The number of mature follicles in the T3 group (46.00±4.65) was higher (P<0.05) than in two control groups (29.25±3.72 and 27.92±3.48), and also higher (P<0.05) than in T1 and T2 (37.17±4.99 and 38.75±7.09). Antibody-positive rats had more mature ovarian follicles than negative rats (46.75±4.23 vs. 35.60±3.38, P<0.05). Moreover, litter size and number of placentas were increased (P<0.05) in the pcISI immunization groups, except for the T1 group, compared to the control groups. In conclusion, the pcISI DNA vaccine successfully induced a humoral immune response, improved reproductive hormone concentrations, stimulated follicular development, and increased number of placentas and litter size. Furthermore, 100 μg yielded the best immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shui-Lian Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
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21
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Peinado J, Serrano M, Nieto M, Sánchez J, Medel P, Mateos G. The effects of gender and castration of females on performance and carcass and meat quality of heavy pigs destined to the dry-cured industry. Meat Sci 2012; 90:715-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2011.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2009] [Revised: 10/25/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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Gionfriddo JP, Denicola AJ, Miller LA, Fagerstone KA. Efficacy of GnRH immunocontraception of wild white-tailed deer in New Jersey. WILDLIFE SOC B 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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23
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Gionfriddo JP, Eisemann JD, Sullivan KJ, Healey RS, Miller LA, Fagerstone KA, Engeman RM, Yoder CA. Field test of a single-injection gonadotrophin-releasing hormone immunocontraceptive vaccine in female white-tailed deer. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2009. [DOI: 10.1071/wr08061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The development and use of safe, effective and practical wildlife contraceptive agents could reduce reproduction in locally overabundant deer populations in situations where traditional management tools such as regulated hunting cannot be employed. GonaCon Immunocontraceptive Vaccine (the commercial name for a particular gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-based emulsion) was tested in adult female white-tailed deer in a fenced herd near Silver Spring, Maryland, USA. Observations of udder condition were used to identify does that had become pregnant. Necropsy observations, histopathology and serum concentrations of anti-GnRH antibodies, luteinising hormone and progesterone were used to compare health and reproductive status of treated (n = 28) and control (n = 15) deer. After receiving one injection of GonaCon, 88% of treated deer did not become pregnant during the first year and 47% did not become pregnant during the second year after vaccination. No adverse health effects related to vaccination with GonaCon were detected, except for localised injection-site reactions in five (29%) of 17 examined, vaccinated deer. Treatment with GonaCon can be a safe and effective means of inducing temporary infertility in wild white-tailed deer. Ultimately, the management value of GonaCon will be determined by natural-resource professionals who use it as one of many tools to manage deer populations.
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Peinado J, Medel P, Fuentetaja A, Mateos GG. Influence of sex and castration of females on growth performance and carcass and meat quality of heavy pigs destined for the dry-cured industry1. J Anim Sci 2008; 86:1410-7. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2006-807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Abstract
The Humane Society of the United States estimates that each year between 8 and 10 million dogs and cats enter shelters and 4-5 million of these animals are euthanized due to lack of homes. Many veterinarians within the United States recommend surgical sterilization for population control in dogs and cats. However, there are non-surgical methods to control reproduction. Pharmacologic methods of contraception and sterilization can be safe, reliable and reversible. Hormonal treatments using progestins, androgens, or gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs act to either directly block reproductive hormone receptor-mediated events, or indirectly block conception via negative feedback mechanisms. Immunocontraception, via vaccination against GnRH, the luteinizing hormone receptor or zona pellucida proteins, is also possible. Intratesticular or intraepididymal injections provide a method for non-surgical sterilization of the male dog and cat. Additional methods have been employed for mechanical disruption of fertility including intravaginal and intrauterine devices and ultrasound testicular ablation. Alternative approaches to surgical sterilization will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Kutzler
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, 158 Magruder Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
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Abstract
Advancement in technology and science and our detailed knowledge of immunology, molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemistry among other basic science disciplines have defined new directions for vaccine development strategies. The applicability of genetic engineering and proteomics along with other new technologies have played pivotal roles in introducing novel ideas in vaccinology, and resulted in developing new vaccines and improving the quality of existing ones. Subunit vaccines, recombinant vaccines, DNA vaccines and vectored vaccines are rapidly gaining scientific and public acceptance as the new generation of vaccines and are seriously considered as alternatives to current conventional vaccines. The present review focuses on recent advances in veterinary vaccinology and addresses the effects and impact of modern microbiology, immunology, and molecular biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homayoun Shams
- Center for Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases Control, University of Texas Health Center at Tyler, 11937 US Highway 271, Tyler, TX 75708-3154, USA.
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Turkstra JA, Schaaper WMM, Oonk HB, Meloen RH. GnRH tandem peptides for inducing an immunogenic response to GnRH-I without cross-reactivity to other GnRH isoforms. Vaccine 2005; 23:4915-20. [PMID: 16006018 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2005.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2004] [Revised: 04/14/2005] [Accepted: 05/20/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) occurs in various isoforms in mammals, i.e. GnRH-I (mammalian GnRH), GnRH-II (chicken GnRH-II), GnRH-III (salmon GnRH) and two forms of lamprey GnRH. The function of the latter four molecules have only been partially investigated. Also not much is known about the physiological effects of GnRH-I immunization on the function of these GnRH isoforms. In order to avoid possible harmful side-effects due to undesired neutralization of GnRH isoforms, GnRH-I specificity of antibodies raised against a panel of alternative GnRH antigens was determined. The results show that GnRH antigens can be designed which generate antibodies that specifically bind GnRH-I, without cross-reacting with other GnRH isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Turkstra
- Pepscan Systems, Edelhertweg 15, 8219 PH, Lelystad, The Netherlands.
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Naz RK, Gupta SK, Gupta JC, Vyas HK, Talwar AGP. Recent advances in contraceptive vaccine development: a mini-review. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:3271-83. [PMID: 16113040 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dei256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Contraceptive vaccines (CV) may provide viable and valuable alternatives to the presently available methods of contraception. The molecules that are being explored for CV development either target gamete production [luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH)/GnRH, FSH], gamete function [sperm antigens and oocyte zona pellucida (ZP)], and gamete outcome (HCG). CV targeting gamete production have shown varied degrees of efficacy; however, they either affect sex steroids causing impotency and/or show only a partial rather than a complete effect in inhibiting gametogenesis. However, vaccines based on LHRH/GnRH are being developed by several pharmaceutical companies as substitutes for castration of domestic pets, farm and wild animals, and for therapeutic anticancer purposes such as in prostatic hypertrophy and carcinoma. These vaccines may also find applications in clinical situations that require the inhibition of increased secretions of sex steroids, such as in uterine fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis and precocious puberty. CV targeting molecules involved in gamete function such as sperm antigens and ZP proteins are exciting choices. Sperm constitute the most promising and exciting target for CV. Several sperm-specific antigens have been delineated in several laboratories and are being actively explored for CV development. Studies are focused on delineating appropriate sperm-specific epitopes, and increasing the immunogenicity (specifically in the local genital tract) and efficacy on the vaccines. Anti-sperm antibody (ASA)-mediated immunoinfertility provides a naturally occurring model to indicate how a vaccine might work in humans. Vaccines based on ZP proteins are quite efficacious in producing contraceptive effects, but may induce oophoritis, affecting sex steroids. They are being successfully tested to control feral populations of dogs, deer, horses and elephants, and populations of several species of zoo animals. The current research for human applicability is focused on delineating infertility-related epitopes (B-cell epitopes) from oophoritis-inducing epitopes (T-cell epitopes). Vaccines targeting gamete outcome primarily focus on the HCG molecule. The HCG vaccine is the first vaccine to undergo Phase I and II clinical trials in humans. Both efficacy and lack of immunopathology have been reasonably well demonstrated for this vaccine. At the present time, studies are focused on increasing the immunogenicity and efficacy of the birth control vaccine, and examining its clinical applications in various HCG-producing cancers. The present article will focus on the current status of the anti-sperm, anti-ZP, anti-LHRH/GnRH and anti-HCG vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh K Naz
- Reproductive Immunology and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West Virginia University, School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia 26505, USA.
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Herbert CA, Trigg TE. Applications of GnRH in the control and management of fertility in female animals. Anim Reprod Sci 2005; 88:141-53. [PMID: 16102921 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2005.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) has long been recognized as a potential target for the control and management of fertility in female animals. Attempts to apply GnRH-based technology to manage fertility have focussed on the development of GnRH agonists, antagonists and vaccines. All of these methods have potential, but the widespread application of these technologies has been limited to date. The greatest advance in the use of GnRH-based technology for long-term fertility control in recent years has been the development and commercialization of depot formulations that release GnRH agonists for periods of up to 1 year. These products have a broad range of potential applications in production and domestic animal management. The further development and commercialization of GnRH vaccines has been hampered by the variability of response between individual animals. The need to use adjuvant and multiple boosters also make this a less attractive option than the current GnRH agonist technology. However, GnRH vaccines have the advantage that they do not induce the initial stimulatory response that follows GnRH agonist administration. GnRH antagonists and GnRH-toxin conjugates show promise but are in an earlier phase of development. To date, no depot or long-acting formulations of antagonists have been developed. GnRH-toxin conjugates have yet to achieve permanent sterilization, but further dose-response trials may advance this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Herbert
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
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Levy JK, Miller LA, Cynda Crawford P, Ritchey JW, Ross MK, Fagerstone KA. GnRH immunocontraception of male cats. Theriogenology 2004; 62:1116-30. [PMID: 15289051 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2003.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2003] [Accepted: 12/23/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The development of nonsurgical contraceptives for cats may facilitate population control of the species. The purpose of this study was to investigate the utility of GnRH for immunocontraception of male cats. Male cats (n=12) were divided into groups of three and were immunized once with 0 (sham), 50, 200, or 400 microg synthetic GnRH coupled to keyhole limpet hemocyanin and combined with a mycobacterial adjuvant to enhance immunogenicity. GnRH antibody titer, serum testosterone concentration, and scrotal size were determined monthly. At 6 months, semen was collected by electroejaculation and testes were examined histologically. GnRH antibodies were detected in all cats receiving GnRH vaccine by 1 month post-treatment and persisted throughout the study. No dose effect of GnRH was observed; titers were not different among cats treated with 50, 200, or 400 microg GnRH (P=0.5). Six of nine treated cats were classified as responders based on high GnRH antibody titers (>32,000). By 3 months post-treatment, responder cats had undetectable testosterone concentrations and testicular atrophy. Nonresponder cats had GnRH titers of 4000-32,000 and testosterone concentrations intermediate between responder and sham-treated cats. At 6 months, total sperm counts were similar for sham-treated cats (3.1+/-1.8 x 10(6) sperm) and nonresponder cats (3.4+/-1.6 x 10(6) sperm; P=0.7). Only one of the six responder cats produced sperm, none of which were motile. Combined testicular weights of responder cats (1.3+/-0.1 g) were lower than sham-treated controls (5.3+/-1.3 g; P=0.02) and nonresponder cats (2.9+/-0.3 g; P=0.02). Histologic evaluation of the testes revealed that in responder cats, the interstitial cells that were present were pale and shrunken compared to the plump, polyhedral eosinophilic cells in sham-treated cats. GnRH responder cats had marked tubular atrophy with vacuolated Sertoli cells and a paucity of germ cells. Single-dose GnRH treatment resulted in testosterone concentrations and semen quality consistent with immunocastration in a majority of cats treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie K Levy
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Animal Health and Welfare (AHAW) on a request from the Commission related to welfare aspects of the castration of piglets. EFSA J 2004. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2004.91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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