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Hoving LL, Haen SM, Laurenssen BFA, Peltoniemi OAT, Kemp B, Soede NM. Caudal vena cava progesterone and LH release patterns on Day 14 of gestation in primiparous sows. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:476-481. [PMID: 28442059 DOI: 10.1071/rd15016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to explore the relationship between systemic and local progesterone secretion and LH pulsatility during implantation in the pig. Differences in progesterone concentrations measured locally in the caudal vena cava and systemically in the jugular vein were studied in eight primiparous sows on Day 14 of pregnancy. LH pulsatility was analysed for its effects on the local progesterone-releasing pattern. Mean (±s.d.) progesterone concentrations in the vena cava (65.5±19.8ngmL-1) were approximately double basal concentrations (33.6±13.1ngmL-1). Basal concentrations of progesterone and LH were calculated as the average of the lowest six values. Basal caudal vena cava and mean jugular (27.6±1.5ngmL-1) progesterone concentrations did not differ significantly. Pre- and postprandial jugular progesterone concentrations were significantly different in the morning and afternoon (P=0.025 and 0.023). Mean LH ranged from 0.24 to 0.43ngmL-1 and was approximately double as high as basal LH in individual sows. In 60.8% of cases, LH pulses were followed by a progesterone pulse within 1h. In conclusion, the present study showed that corpus luteum function appears to respond to LH pulsatility on Day 14 of pregnancy. However, the response varies at the level of individual sows. In addition, systemic postprandial decreases in progesterone were confirmed on Day 14 of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L L Hoving
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - S M Haen
- Department of Production Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Paroninkuja 20, 04920 Saarentaus, Finland
| | - B F A Laurenssen
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - O A T Peltoniemi
- Department of Production Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Paroninkuja 20, 04920 Saarentaus, Finland
| | - B Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - N M Soede
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
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2
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van Leeuwen JJJ, Martens MRTM, Jourquin J, Driancourt MA, Wagner A, Kemp B, Soede NM. Follicle size and reproductive hormone profiles during a post-weaning altrenogest treatment in primiparous sows. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:304-12. [PMID: 24192203 DOI: 10.1071/rd13149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 10/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the endocrine background of follicle size changes during post-weaning altrenogest treatment. altrenogest-treated sows received a 20-mg dosage daily at 8.00 a.m. from Day -1 to Day 14 after weaning. On Day -1, only 3/13 altrenogest-treated sows showed LH pulses compared with 8/8 control sows (P=0.001). On Day 0, control sows showed a typical high frequency-low amplitude LH pattern, indicative for recruitment of oestrogenic follicles. In altrenogest-treated animals on Day 0, half of the sows showed high frequency-high amplitude pulses from 4-5h after weaning. In altrenogest-treated sows, average follicle size increased from 3.1±0.5 mm on Day 0 to 4.4±0.6mm on Day 5, then decreased to 3.7±0.5 mm on Day 7 and stabilised thereafter. FSH and oestradiol (E2) concentrations showed a distinct diurnal pattern; high at 7.00 a.m. and low at 3.00 p.m. E2 concentrations (7.00 a.m.) showed a 2.5-fold increase from Day -1 to Day 2, and subsequently a 2-fold decline to reach a plateau at Day 8. FSH concentrations reached maximum levels by Day 5 and slowly declined afterwards. In conclusion, once-daily administration of altrenogest starting one day before weaning delays the weaning-induced increase in LH pulses. Although FSH and follicle size increase until Day 5 after weaning, follicle E2 production already decreased from Day 2 after weaning. Post-weaning altrenogest treatment thus results in a follicular wave of follicles that lose oestrogenic competence at Day 2 after weaning, presumably related to the changed LH dynamics during altrenogest treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J J van Leeuwen
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700AH,Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - M R T M Martens
- MSD Animal Health, PO Box 50, 5830 AB, Boxmeer, The Netherlands
| | - J Jourquin
- Elanco Animal Health, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - M A Driancourt
- MSD Animal Health, R&D Pharmaceuticals, BP 67131, 49071 Beaucouze, France
| | - A Wagner
- University Hohenheim, Institut für Tierhaltung und Tierzüchtung, Fachgebiet Tierhaltung und Leistungsphysiologie, (470A), Garbenstr. 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - B Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700AH,Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - N M Soede
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700AH,Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Knox RV. Artificial insemination in pigs today. Theriogenology 2015; 85:83-93. [PMID: 26253434 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Use of artificial insemination (AI) for breeding pigs has been instrumental for facilitating global improvements in fertility, genetics, labor, and herd health. The establishment of AI centers for management of boars and production of semen has allowed for selection of boars for fertility and sperm production using in vitro and in vivo measures. Today, boars can be managed for production of 20 to 40 traditional AI doses containing 2.5 to 3.0 billion motile sperm in 75 to 100 mL of extender or 40 to 60 doses with 1.5 to 2.0 billion sperm in similar or reduced volumes for use in cervical or intrauterine AI. Regardless of the sperm dose, in liquid form, extenders are designed to sustain sperm fertility for 3 to 7 days. On farm, AI is the predominant form for commercial sow breeding and relies on manual detection of estrus with sows receiving two cervical or two intrauterine inseminations of the traditional or low sperm doses on each day detected in standing estrus. New approaches for increasing rates of genetic improvement through use of AI are aimed at methods to continue to lower the number of sperm in an AI dose and reducing the number of inseminations through use of a single, fixed-time AI after ovulation induction. Both approaches allow greater selection pressure for economically important swine traits in the sires and help extend the genetic advantages through AI on to more production farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- R V Knox
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA.
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Benhajali H, Ezzaouia M, Lunel C, Charfi F, Hausberger M. Temporal feeding pattern may influence reproduction efficiency, the example of breeding mares. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73858. [PMID: 24098636 PMCID: PMC3787043 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Discomfort in farm animals may be induced by inappropriate types or timing of food supplies. Thus, time restriction of meals and lack of roughage have been shown to be one source of emergence of oral stereotypies and abnormal behaviour in horses which have evolved to eat high-fibre diets in small amounts over long periods of time. This feeding pattern is often altered in domestic environment where horses are often fed low fibre meals that can be rapidly consumed. This study aimed at determining the effect of the temporal pattern of feeding on reproductive efficiency of breeding mares, One hundred Arab breeding mares were divided into two groups that differed only in the temporal pattern of roughage availability: only at night for the standard feeding pattern group (SFP mares), night and day for the "continuous feeding" group (CF mares). The total amount of roughage provided was the same as the CF mares received half of the hay during the day while in paddock (haynets). Mares were tested for oestrus detection by teasing with one stallion and were then examined clinically by rectal palpations and ultrasound before being mated naturally or inseminated by fresh or frozen semen. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyse data. The treatment affected significantly the reproductive efficiency of the mares with fewer oestrus abnormalities (p = 0.0002) and more fertility (p = 0.024) in CF mares (conception rate = 81% versus 55% in SFP mares). Ensuring semi-continous feeding by providing roughage may be a way of fulfilling the basic physiological needs of the horses' digestive system, reducing stress and associated inhibitors of reproduction. To our knowledge, this study provides the first evidence of an impact of temporal feeding patterns on reproductive success in a Mammal. Temporal patterns of feeding may be a major and underestimated factor in breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifa Benhajali
- UMR CNRS 6552 Ethologie Animale et Humaine, Université de Rennes I, Rennes, France
- Haras national de Sidi Thabet, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | | | - Christophe Lunel
- UMR CNRS 6552 Ethologie Animale et Humaine, Université de Rennes I, Rennes, France
| | - Faouzia Charfi
- Unité de Biologie Animale et de Systématique Evolutive, Université Tunis-ElManar, Campus universitaire, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Martine Hausberger
- UMR CNRS 6552 Ethologie Animale et Humaine, Université de Rennes I, Rennes, France
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Gerritsen R, Laurenssen BFA, Hazeleger W, Langendijk P, Kemp B, Soede NM. Cystic ovaries in intermittently-suckled sows: follicle growth and endocrine profiles. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 26:462-8. [PMID: 23544792 DOI: 10.1071/rd12382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Accepted: 03/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper presents follicle development and hormone profiles for sows with normal ovulation or cystic follicles during an intermittent-suckling (IS) regime that started at Day 14 of lactation. Sows were subjected to separation from their piglets during blocks of 6h or 12h. In total, 8 out of 52 sows developed cystic follicles; either full cystic ovaries (n=6) or partial ovulation (n=2). Increase in follicle size of these sows was similar to that of normal ovulating sows until pre-ovulatory size at Day 5 after the start of separation, but from then on became larger (P<0.05). LH surge was smaller or absent in sows that developed (partially) cystic ovaries (0.4 ± 0.1 vs 3.6 ± 0.3 ngmL(-1); P<0.01). Peak levels of oestradiol (E2) were similar but high E2 levels persisted in sows that developed (partly) cystic ovaries and duration of oestrus tended to be longer. The risk of developing (partly) cystic ovaries was higher when IS occurred in blocks of 6h versus 12h (33 vs 10%). In conclusion, the appearance of cystic ovaries at approximately Day 20 of ongoing lactation was related to an insufficient LH surge, as is also the case in non-lactating sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Gerritsen
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - B F A Laurenssen
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - W Hazeleger
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - P Langendijk
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - B Kemp
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - N M Soede
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Embryo survival, progesterone profiles and metabolic responses to an increased feeding level during second gestation in sows. Theriogenology 2012; 77:1557-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2011] [Revised: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 11/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Hoving LL, Soede NM, Feitsma H, Kemp B. Lactation Weight Loss in Primiparous Sows: Consequences for Embryo Survival and Progesterone and Relations with Metabolic Profiles. Reprod Domest Anim 2012; 47:1009-16. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2012.02007.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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8
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Wientjes JGM, Soede NM, Aarsse F, Laurenssen BFA, Koopmanschap RE, van den Brand H, Kemp B. Effects of dietary carbohydrate sources on plasma glucose, insulin and IGF-I levels in multiparous sows. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2011; 96:494-505. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0396.2011.01171.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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9
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van Leeuwen J, Martens M, Jourquin J, Driancourt M, Kemp B, Soede N. Variation in LH pulsatility during 24h after a postweaning altrenogest treatment in relation to follicle development in primiparous sows. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 126:101-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2011] [Revised: 04/16/2011] [Accepted: 04/20/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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10
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Wientjes JGM, Soede NM, van den Brand H, Kemp B. Nutritionally Induced Relationships Between Insulin Levels During the Weaning-to-Ovulation Interval and Reproductive Characteristics in Multiparous Sows: I. Luteinizing Hormone, Follicle Development, Oestrus and Ovulation. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 47:53-61. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01801.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Řezáč P, Křivánek I, Urban T, Borkovcová M, Pöschl M. Relationship of vaginal impedance with speed of return to oestrus after weaning, oestrous behaviour, parity and lactation length in cyclic sows. Anim Reprod Sci 2009; 114:238-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2008] [Revised: 09/10/2008] [Accepted: 09/23/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Kluivers-Poodt M, Gerritsen R, van Nes A, Langendijk P. Cortisol profiles in sows submitted to an intermittent suckling regime compared with that of abruptly weaned sows. Reprod Domest Anim 2009; 45:377-82. [PMID: 19192216 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01132.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to monitor changes in cortisol levels in sows around the time of separation from their piglets, in two different intermittent suckling regimes, compared with that in conventionally weaned sows. Sows were either weaned at 21 days of lactation (CONT) or subjected to an intermittent suckling regime (IS) from 14 days of lactation onwards. Sows in the IS regimes were separated from their piglets for 12 h every day, either from 08:00 to 20:00 hours (IS12) or from 08:00 to 14:00 hours and 20:00 to 02:00 hours (IS6). Separation caused a transient increase in cortisol levels on the first (CONT and IS12) and second (IS12) day of separation, compared with a gradual decline from early morning when the sows were still continuously suckling. In IS6 sows, in contrast, the transient rise in cortisol levels after separation at 08:00 hours was observed on the first 3 days and also on day 7 of the IS regime. Cortisol parameters were correlated with peri-ovulatory characteristics like onset of oestrus, onset of the LH surge and time of ovulation. Onset of the LH surge was delayed in IS6 sows. In conclusion, increase in cortisol levels as a consequence of separation of sows and piglets, is an acute, incidental phenomenon in IS12 and CONT sows, but shows a repeated acute elevation in IS6 sows, possibly placing IS6 sows at a higher risk of influencing peri-ovulatory processes and developing cystic follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kluivers-Poodt
- Animal Sciences Group, Wageningen UR, Lelystad, The Netherlands.
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13
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Gerritsen R, Soede N, Hazeleger W, Langendijk P, Dieleman S, Taverne M, Kemp B. Intermittent suckling enables estrus and pregnancy during lactation in sows: Effects of stage of lactation and lactation during early pregnancy. Theriogenology 2009; 71:432-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2007] [Revised: 08/11/2008] [Accepted: 08/12/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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14
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Einarsson S, Brandt Y, Lundeheim N, Madej A. Stress and its influence on reproduction in pigs: a review. Acta Vet Scand 2008; 50:48. [PMID: 19077201 PMCID: PMC2630310 DOI: 10.1186/1751-0147-50-48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2008] [Accepted: 12/10/2008] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The manifestations of stress, defined as a biological response to an event that the individual perceives as a threat to its homeostasis, are commonly linked to enhanced activity of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the activation of the sympathetic adreno-medullary (SA) system. Activation of the HPA system results in the secretion of peptides from the hypothalamus, principally corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and beta-endorphin. ACTH induces the secretion of corticosteroids from the adrenal cortex, which can be seen in pigs exposed to acute physical and/or psychological stressors. The present paper is a review of studies on the influence of stressors on reproduction in pigs. The effects of stress on reproduction depend on the critical timing of stress, the genetic predisposition to stress, and the type of stress. The effect of stress on reproduction is also influenced by the duration of the responses induced by various stressors. Prolonged or chronic stress usually results in inhibition of reproduction, while the effects of transient or acute stress in certain cases is stimulatory (e.g. anoestrus), but in most cases is of impairment for reproduction. Most sensitive of the reproductive process are ovulation, expression of sexual behaviour and implantation of the embryo, since they are directly controlled by the neuroendocrine system.
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Gerritsen R, Soede NM, Langendijk P, Dieleman SJ, Hazeleger W, Kemp B. Peri-oestrus hormone profiles and follicle growth in lactating sows with oestrus induced by intermittent suckling. Reprod Domest Anim 2008; 43:1-8. [PMID: 18199251 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2007.00843.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study describes follicle dynamics, endocrine profiles in multiparous sows with lactational oestrus compared with conventionally weaned sows (C). Lactational oestrus was induced by Intermittent Suckling (IS) with separation of sows and piglets for either 12 consecutive hours per day (IS12, n = 14) or twice per day for 6 h per occasion (IS6, n = 13) from day 14 of lactation onwards. Control sows (n = 23) were weaned at day 21 of lactation. Pre-ovulatory follicles (> or =6 mm) were observed in 100% of IS12, 92% of IS6 and 26% of C sows before day 21 of lactation and in the remaining 74% C sows within 7 days after weaning. All sows with pre-ovulatory follicles showed oestrus, but not all sows showed ovulation. Four IS6 sows and one IS12 sow developed cystic follicles of which two IS6 sows partially ovulated. Follicle growth, ovulation rate and time of ovulation were similar. E(2) levels tended to be higher in IS sows (p = 0.06), the pre-ovulatory LH surge tended to be lower in IS12 (5.1 +/- 1.7 ng/ml) than in C sows (8.4 +/- 5.0 ng/ml; p = 0.08) and P(4) levels were lower in IS12 and IS6 than in C sows (at 75 h after ovulation: 8.8 +/- 2.4 ng/ml vs 7.0 +/- 1.4 ng/ml vs 17.1 +/- 4.4 ng/ml; p < 0.01). In conclusion, sows with lactational oestrus induced by IS are similar to weaned sows in the timing of oestrus, early follicle development and ovulation rates, but the pre-ovulatory LH surge and post-ovulatory P(4) increase are lower.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Gerritsen
- Adaptation Physiology, Animal Sciences Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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17
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Brandt Y, Einarsson S, Ljung A, Lundeheim N, Rodríguez-Martínez H, Madej A. Effects of continuous elevated cortisol concentrations during oestrus on concentrations and patterns of progesterone, oestradiol and LH in the sow. Anim Reprod Sci 2008; 110:172-85. [PMID: 18308488 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2007] [Revised: 01/07/2008] [Accepted: 01/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of continuous elevated cortisol concentrations during standing oestrus on time of ovulation and patterns of progesterone, oestradiol and luteinising hormone (LH) in sows. The elevation of cortisol concentrations was achieved through repeated intravenous injections of synthetic adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) every 2 h for approximately 48 h, from the onset of the second standing oestrus after weaning. Treatment was terminated when ovulation was detected (monitored by transrectal ultrasonography every 4h) or when the sow had received a maximum of 24 injections. The dose of ACTH (2.5 microg/kg) was chosen to mimic the cortisol concentrations seen during mixing of unfamiliar sows. The sows (n=14) were surgically fitted with jugular vein catheters and randomly divided into a control (C group where only NaCl solution were injected) or an ACTH group. Blood samples were collected every 2 h. In parallel with the blood sampling, saliva samples for cortisol analyses were taken from eight sows before onset of treatment and from four of the sows during treatment. There was no difference in time from onset of standing oestrus to ovulation between the two groups. The interval between the peaks of oestradiol and LH to ovulation was prolonged in the ACTH group compared to the C group (p<0.05), with a tendency towards an earlier decline of oestradiol in the ACTH group. Cortisol and progesterone concentrations were significantly elevated during treatment in the ACTH group (p<0.001), with cortisol peak concentrations occurring between 40 and 80 min after each ACTH injection. Cortisol concentrations in saliva and plasma were highly correlated (p<0.001). In conclusion, elevated cortisol concentrations from the onset of standing oestrus increase progesterone concentrations and prolong the interval between oestradiol and LH peaks to ovulation, the latter possible due to an early decline in oestradiol concentrations and a change of the LH peak outline. The effect these hormonal changes have on reproductive performance need to be further investigated. Saliva samples might be a useful and non-invasive method to assess cortisol concentrations in sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Brandt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Reproduction, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7054, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden.
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von Borell E, Dobson H, Prunier A. Stress, behaviour and reproductive performance in female cattle and pigs. Horm Behav 2007; 52:130-8. [PMID: 17467708 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2007] [Revised: 03/27/2007] [Accepted: 03/27/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Female farm animals are exposed to a great variety of environmental and management related stressors. As a consequence, their reproductive and maternal abilities may be compromised through mechanisms acting on the hypothalamic, pituitary, ovarian and uterine function. Responses to short- and long-term stressors may differ as short-term stressors often fail to affect reproduction or even may have stimulatory effects. Thus, the stress response induces diverse neuroendocrine reactions that can either increase or decrease the probability of an animal reproducing depending on the specific situation. The aim of the present review is to summarise the current knowledge on the stress concept and its implications on behaviour and reproductive performance in cows and female pigs as phenomena reported in laboratory animals are unable to explain all effects encountered in domesticated farm animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eberhard von Borell
- Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences III, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06108 Halle, Germany.
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Soede NM, Roelofs JB, Verheijen RJE, Schouten WPG, Hazeleger W, Kemp B. Effect of repeated stress treatments during the follicular phase and early pregnancy on reproductive performance of gilts. Reprod Domest Anim 2007; 42:135-42. [PMID: 17348969 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00742.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In pig husbandry, stress is being considered an important cause of impaired reproductive performance. Therefore, an experiment was performed to quantify effects of repeated stressors during the follicular phase and/or during early pregnancy on reproductive performance of gilts. Eighty-one cyclic gilts were assigned to one of four treatments, namely, stress treatment during the follicular phase (n = 20), stress treatment during early pregnancy (n = 20), stress treatment during both phases (n = 21) and no stress treatment (n = 20). All gilts were housed individually, but gilts in the stress treatments had no opportunity for visual or physical contact with other gilts. Further, animals in a stress-treatment were grouped for half an hour at the start of the treatment and during the treatment period nose-sling and an unpredictable feeding scheme were applied regularly. The extent of stress was monitored using heart rate measurements, behavioural observations and saliva cortisol levels during nose-sling fixation. Of the 81 gilts, 93% showed oestrus and were inseminated. Of these, 93% were pregnant at day 35, having 17.9 +/- 0.3 ovulations and 15.6 +/- 0.3 foetuses. These parameters were not affected by treatment. The stress treatment during the follicular phase tended to shorten cycle length (stress: 20.8 +/- 0.20; control: 21.2 +/- 0.17 days, p = 0.07) and weight of foetuses at day 35 (stress: 4.47 +/- 0.08 g; no stress: 4.69 +/- 0.08 g, p = 0.06); stress during early pregnancy did not affect any of the reproduction parameters. Percentage stereotypic behaviour, heart rate and saliva cortisol levels varied greatly between animals and between days, but did not differ between the treatments. No relationships were found between any of the reproductive parameters and any of the stress parameters (heart rate, cortisol, stereotypic behaviour). These results indicate that the repeatedly applied acute stressors did not generate a chronic stress-response and that these stressors during the follicular phase and/or during early pregnancy did not affect reproductive processes. It is not clear how these findings relate to suggested effects of stress(ors) on reproductive performance in pig husbandry.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M Soede
- Animal Sciences Group, Wageningen University, AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Soede NM, van Sleuwen MJW, Molenaar R, Rietveld FW, Schouten WPG, Hazeleger W, Kemp B. Influence of repeated regrouping on reproduction in gilts. Anim Reprod Sci 2006; 96:133-45. [PMID: 16426775 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2005.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2005] [Revised: 07/12/2005] [Accepted: 12/16/2005] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
It is generally assumed that stress around oestrus and during early pregnancy reduces reproductive performance of pigs. In our experiment, late prepuberal gilts (age at arrival 225+/-6 days) were housed in groups of four. Stress treatment consisted of once weekly regrouping and twice weekly feed competition of the 28 Stress gilts during 6 consecutive weeks, starting 13 days after arrival. Control gilts (n=28) were not treated. During the 0.5-1.5h after regroupings, Stress animals fought consistently more than the Control animals; up to 13 of the Stress animals fought for at most 60% of the time compared to one Control animal fighting for at most 3.3% of the time. The day before first regrouping, gilts had on average 4.0+/-0.9 skin scratches. By week 6, this number had reduced to 2.1+/-1.0 in Control, but remained 4.0+/-1.3 in Stress gilts (P<0.05). In the afternoon after regroupings, skin scratches increased up to 6.3+/-1.6 in the Stress gilts. Saliva cortisol in the afternoon before regrouping did not differ between weeks 1, 3 and 6, nor did it differ between Stress and Control. In Stress gilts, saliva cortisol was increased in the afternoon of first regrouping, in Batch 2 only (from 1.8+/-0.4 to 4.1+/-0.9 ng/ml; P<0.05). Animals showing a second oestrus within 5 weeks after arrival were inseminated. Duration of second oestrus of these animals was 2.48+/-0.66 days in the Stress gilts (n=24) and 2.21+/-0.58 days in the Control gilts (n=22; P>0.10). At Day 35 after insemination, pregnancy rate was 100% in both groups. Ovulation rate and number of total and vital fetuses was similar (P>0.10). The Stress treatment during a 6-week period around insemination consistently resulted in fighting but did not result in long term effects on cortisol levels and did not impair reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M Soede
- Animal Sciences Group, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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Langendijk P, Schams D, Soede N, Kemp B. Boar contact does not induce oxytocin release during the period of embryo migration in sows. Reprod Domest Anim 2006; 41:238-40. [PMID: 16689888 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00665.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Nine multiparous cyclic sows with permanent jugular catheters were introduced to a boar at day 10 (n = 9) or 11 (n = 5) after ovulation to study the effect on oxytocin (OT) release. If it occurs, the release of OT might play a role in embryo migration which occurs around this time, by stimulating uterine contractions. Blood samples were taken before introduction of the boar and at 2-min intervals up to 10 min after boar introduction. On average, OT levels after boar introduction were not higher than before. In only three out of the 14 occasions of boar introduction, a rise in OT level was observed that was higher than two times the standard deviation above base level. However, even on these occasions OT levels were far below the range normally observed during other events where exogenous stimuli cause OT release, such as boar introduction during estrus and suckling during lactation. We conclude that boar contact around day 10 of the estrous cycle does not induce a biologically significant OT release in sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Langendijk
- Department of Animal Science, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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Turner AI, Hemsworth PH, Tilbrook AJ. Susceptibility of reproduction in female pigs to impairment by stress or elevation of cortisol. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2005; 29:398-410. [PMID: 15998505 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2005.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2005] [Revised: 02/23/2005] [Accepted: 02/24/2005] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
It is generally agreed that stress can impair reproduction. Furthermore, it is often thought that cortisol, which is secreted during stress as a result of activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary adrenal axis, is associated with this stress-induced impairment of reproduction. It has been hypothesized that reproduction in females is particularly susceptible to disruption by acute stress during the series of endocrine events that induce estrus and ovulation. Nevertheless, we found no support for this conjecture when we subjected female pigs to repeated acute stress or repeated acute elevation of cortisol during the period leading up to estrus and ovulation. Conversely, studies have demonstrated that prolonged stress and sustained elevation of cortisol can disrupt reproductive processes in female pigs. Nevertheless, in each study that demonstrated this effect, there were some animals subjected to the prolonged stressor or the sustained elevation of cortisol in which the reproductive parameters that were measured were not affected by the treatment. We propose that reproduction in female pigs is resistant to the effects of acute or repeated acute stress or acute or repeated acute elevation of cortisol even if these occur during the series of endocrine events that induce estrus and ovulation. Furthermore, while reproductive processes in some individuals are compromised, reproduction in a proportion of female pigs appears to be resistant to the effects of prolonged stress or sustained elevation of cortisol.
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Affiliation(s)
- A I Turner
- Department of Physiology, P.O. Box 13F, Monash University, 3800 Vic., Australia.
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Madej A, Lang A, Brandt Y, Kindahl H, Madsen MT, Einarsson S. Factors regulating ovarian function in pigs. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2005; 29:347-61. [PMID: 15998503 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2005.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2005] [Revised: 02/23/2005] [Accepted: 02/24/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The hormonal interactions of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian-uterine axis are accountable for a normal reproduction in female pigs. It is of importance to have knowledge of estrous symptoms and hormonal profiles around ovulation. The introduction of the transrectal ultrasonography in sows has given us the possibility to study ovarian activity in conscious animals and relate the timing of estrus to ovulation. Combining this technique with measuring of several hormones like luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), inhibin, estradiol, progesterone, insulin-like growth hormone I (IGF-I), prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) metabolite, oxytocin, facilitate our knowledge about the sequence of ovarian events. Evidence suggests that activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis may hamper the normal gonadotropin secretion and in consequence, the ovarian function. The metabolic status during lactation, weaning of piglets and social stress might affect onset of ovarian activity and the related estrous behavior. The role of seminal plasma, artificial insemination and presence of the boar might also be included as factors regulating the temporal kinetics of ovulation, corpus luteum development, uterine function and steroid production in the ovary. Studies using a simulated stress by means of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) administration or food deprivation are tools in understanding how the ovary is susceptible to impairment. The intention of this paper is to review current knowledge concerning the endocrine aspects of normal and stress-influenced ovarian function in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Madej
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, SLU, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, P.O. Box 7011, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden.
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Lang A, Kaeoket K, Kindahl H, Madej A, Einarsson S. Influence of CRH and ACTH Administration on Endocrine Profile and Ovulation in Sows. Reprod Domest Anim 2004; 39:181-9. [PMID: 15182295 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2004.00501.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Grouping of sows is a stressful event until the ranking is established. The purpose of this study was to simulate stress by repeated administration of porcine corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)/tetracosactide and to study its influence on endocrine profile and ovulation. Four multiparous sows were used and blood was collected every 2 h from the onset of pro-oestrus until 12 h after ovulation. The first oestrus after weaning was used to check ovulation and acclimate the sows to their environment. The second oestrus after weaning was used as control. At their third oestrus CRH (0.6 microg/kg) and at their fourth oestrus ACTH (5 microg/kg) were given every 4 h from onset of oestrus until ovulation. The total 'area under the curve' of cortisol was twofold larger in two of four sows during the CRH treatment period, and two- to fourfold larger (p < or = 0.05) during the ACTH treatment period, compared with the corresponding control period. In three sows, there was no clear effect of either CRH or ACTH on the levels of oestradiol 17beta, luteinizing hormone (LH) or on the timing of ovulation. One sow was different in all hormonal patterns and also in the timing of ovulation. In all four sows, ACTH treatment lowered the baseline level of prostaglandin F(2 alpha)-metabolite. Therefore, we conclude that stage of the oestrous cycle seems to be of importance when investigating the influence of exogenous administration of CRH/ACTH on hormonal pattern and ovulation time in the sow.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, CRU, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Langendijk P, Bouwman EG, Schams D, Soede NM, Kemp B. Effects of different sexual stimuli on oxytocin release, uterine activity and receptive behavior in estrous sows. Theriogenology 2003; 59:849-61. [PMID: 12517388 DOI: 10.1016/s0093-691x(02)01157-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to assess effects of exogenous oxytocin (OT) on uterine activity, and to compare three different sexual stimuli in their effects on OT release, uterine activity and receptive behavior in estrous sows. Uterine activity was recorded nonsurgically, by transcervical insertion of an open-end catheter into the caudal part of the uterine lumen. After recording spontaneous uterine activity, exogenous OT was administered (Experiment 1), or one of the following stimuli was applied to the sow (Experiment 2): tactile stimuli, i.e. manual stimulation of the sow's back and flanks, tactile stimulation in combination with boar pheromone spray (5alpha-androstenon), or tactile stimuli in the presence of a boar. Both exogenous OT and endogenously released OT increased uterine activity. The effect depended on the uterine activity before treatment, with the effect being greater in those sows with lower uterine activity before treatment. In Experiment 2, boar presence was the only stimulus that elicited a clear, surge-like release of OT, and also clearly increased uterine activity. Release of OT was not necessary for induction of receptive behavior: tactile stimulation alone and in combination with pheromone spray elicited a standing response in one third of the sows, but had no effect on OT release.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Langendijk
- Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, Marijkeweg 40, 6709 PG Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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Langendijk P, Bouwman EG, Soede NM, Taverne MA, Kemp B. Myometrial activity around estrus in sows: spontaneous activity and effects of estrogens, cloprostenol, seminal plasma and clenbuterol. Theriogenology 2002; 57:1563-77. [PMID: 12054214 DOI: 10.1016/s0093-691x(02)00657-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A new, nonsurgical, open-end catheter technique was used to study spontaneous uterine activity around estrus in sows, and the effects of estrogens, seminal plasma, cloprostenol, and clenbuterol on uterine activity. In the first experiment, uterine activity was studied in 14 multiparous, cyclic sows, during one or more estrous cycles, from day -4 to day 4 of the cycle (day 0: first day of standing estrus). From a few days before estrus until estrus, the percentage of sows showing any uterine contractions increased from 55 to 100%, and frequency and mean amplitude of uterine contractions for these sows increased from 15 to 22/h, and from 20 to 40 mmHg on average. After estrus, uterine activity decreased. There were large differences between sows in uterine activity, which were consistent over the days of the cycle. In the second experiment, 11.5 microg of estrogens in 100 ml saline (n = 17), 100 ml seminal plasma (n = 5), 1 mg cloprostenol in 100 ml saline (n = 10), 0.30 mg clenbuterol in 100 ml saline (n = 11), or 100 ml saline (n = 5) was infused IU, after recording spontaneous activity. Infusion with saline or seminal plasma did not affect uterine activity. Estrogens increased frequency of contractions. Cloprostenol increased both frequency and amplitude of contractions. Clenbuterol reduced both frequency and amplitude of contractions. In conclusion, this study shows that spontaneous uterine activity in sows is increased around estrus, and it supports the role of estrogens in boar seminal plasma in affecting uterine activity around mating. Further, this study has yielded possible tools to study the relation between uterine activity and sperm transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Langendijk
- Department of Animal Science, Wageningen University, The Netherlands.
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Soede NM, Hazeleger W, Kemp B. Follicle Size and the Process of Ovulation in Sows as Studied with Ultrasound. Reprod Domest Anim 1998. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.1998.tb01350.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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