1
|
Papa PM, Segabinazzi LGTM, Fonseca-Alves CE, Papa FO, Alvarenga MA. Intratesticular transplantation of allogenic mesenchymal stem cells mitigates testicular destruction after induced heat stress in Miniature-horse stallions. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 132:104961. [PMID: 37925113 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Testicular degeneration (TD) is the most frequent cause of sub or infertility in stallions. Currently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have been studied as a therapeutic option for several diseases including induced-TD in laboratory animals. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of intratesticular MSC therapy on the testicular histology of stallions submitted to scrotal heat stress. Ten healthy Miniature-horse stallions were submitted to testicular heat stress induced by a heating wrap device (42-45°C). Afterward, the stallions were divided into two groups and treated seven days later. MSCs-treated stallions were treated with an intratesticular injection of 10 × 106 of MSCs diluted in 5 mL of PBS, whereas placebo-treated stallions had 5 mL of PBS intratesticular injected. All stallions had testicular biopsies collected seven days before and one- and 14-days post-heat stress and were castrated 30 days after testicular insult. Tissue sections were stained with H&E and evaluated for the tubular and luminal diameter, epithelial thickness, seminiferous tubules (STs) integrity, the number of spermatozoa in the STs, and the percent of abnormal STs. Significance was set at P≤0.05. In both groups, testicular heat stress damaged the STs (P<0.05). However, STs' parameters were improved in MSCs-treated stallions compared to placebo-treated stallions 30 days after the testicular insult (P<0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest that intratesticular MSC therapy provided a therapeutic advantage in rescuing acute TD in stallions. However, further studies are essential to evaluate the benefits of this therapy on semen parameters and stallions with idiopathic TD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia M Papa
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Lorenzo G T M Segabinazzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St. Kitts, West Indies.
| | - Carlos E Fonseca-Alves
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Frederico O Papa
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Marco A Alvarenga
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, FMVZ, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cowan VE, Chohan M, Blakley BR, McKinnon J, Anzar M, Singh J. Chronic ergot exposure in adult bulls suppresses prolactin but minimally impacts results of typical breeding soundness exams. Theriogenology 2023; 197:71-83. [PMID: 36476505 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Canadian standards allow ≤3000 μg ergot alkaloids/kg cattle feed. A concentration-response relationship was hypothesized between ergot in feed and reductions in plasma prolactin, sperm motility, sperm function, and increase in sperm abnormalities. The study consisted of pre-treatment (12 weeks), treatment (9 weeks), and post-treatment periods (10 weeks). Adult bulls were fed 1113 (n = 8; low ergot group) or 2227 (n = 6; high) μg/kg of dry matter intake. Endpoints were measured every two weeks. Ejaculates were analyzed for sperm concentration, total and progressive motility, plasma membrane and acrosome integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential and sperm abnormalities. Data were analyzed by repeated measures MIXED PROC in SAS. Average outside ambient temperature during the pre-treatment, treatment, and post-treatment periods was -13 (-31 to 1), 0.5 (-18 to 19), and 21 (13-28) °C. Plasma prolactin decreased markedly during treatment (-52.4%; Experimental period p < 0.01). Rectal temperature increased during the treatment and post-treatment periods (EP p < 0.01) but was within the normal physiological range. Bull weight increased during the study (EP p < 0.01). Scrotal circumference in low ergot group increased during treatment (+0.8 cm; Tx∗EP p = 0.05). Progressive motility in high ergot group decreased during treatment (-7%; Tx∗EP p = 0.05), however, semen volume and sperm concentrations were unaffected (p ≥ 0.11). Live sperm with high and medium MMP decreased during treatment (-1.4 and -3.7%; EP p < 0.01). Results suggest that feeding ≤2227 μg ergot alkaloids/kg has only minor effects on adult bull semen quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa E Cowan
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B4, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B3, Canada
| | - Moveed Chohan
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B4, Canada
| | - Barry R Blakley
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B4, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B3, Canada
| | - John McKinnon
- Animal and Poultry Science, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5A8, Canada
| | - Muhammad Anzar
- Canadian Animal Genetic Resource Program, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saskatoon, SK, S7N0X2, Canada
| | - Jaswant Singh
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N5B4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Heat stress and sperm production in the domestic cat. Theriogenology 2022; 187:182-187. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
4
|
Seasonal semen quality of a local and commercial taurine cattle breeds, raised in a subtropical climate: relationship between external morphology of the animals and climate. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 240:106974. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.106974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
5
|
Effects of Extender Type, Storage Time, and Temperature on Bull Semen Parameters. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10070630. [PMID: 34356485 PMCID: PMC8301055 DOI: 10.3390/biology10070630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Seminal parameters can be evaluated in situ, or samples can be delivered to a diagnostic centre. How storage conditions affect ejaculates up to evaluation is unclear. We assessed, in 25 commercial bulls electroejaculated in the field, the impact of time until evaluation (0-2 h, 4-6 h, and 24 h post-ejaculation), holding temperature (5 °C vs. room temperature), and extender (AndroMed®, BIOXcell® or INRA96®) on semen quality. Acrosome integrity, sperm viability and morphology, CASA-total and progressive motility, pH, and colony-forming units were assessed. Semen quality was preserved for up to 4-6 h post-ejaculation, except for INRA96® at 5 °C. Regardless of extender or temperature, motility decreased from 4 to 6 h up to 24 h, with the best values obtained with BIOXcell® at 5 °C. pH differed from 4 to 6 h up to 24 h, acidifying when stored at room temperature. Microbiological load was stable over time with AndroMed® and BIOXcell®, and increased at room temperature with INRA96®. Our results suggest that AndroMed® and BIOXcell® can preserve semen quality for up to 6 h, either at 5 °C or room temperature, while INRA96® only at room temperature. These results help to fix adequate protocols for short-term storage and shipment of bovine semen collected under field conditions.
Collapse
|
6
|
Fantinato P, Geraldo ACAPDM, dos Santos TMDCL, Vilela RA, Tribucci AMDO, de Andrade AFC, Arruda RP, Titto EAL. Shade availability on pasture does not affect semen characteristics of Brahman bulls ( Bos taurus indicus). BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2021; 43:e003721. [PMID: 35749065 PMCID: PMC9179191 DOI: 10.29374/2527-2179.bjvm003721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular degeneration by heat is the leading cause of infertility in bulls. Beef cattle are generally farmed under hot and humid conditions, and consequently, the thermotolerance of each breed must be considered in their natural environment. This study aimed to evaluate the reproductive characteristics of Brahman bulls maintained in the grazing system, with or without shadow availability. Ten Brahman bulls aging between 24 and 30 months were allocated in two different paddocks, with or without shadow availability. The heat tolerance test was performed on three non-consecutive typical summer days. The semen samples were collected at four times points in a 14 days interval. The climate conditions were monitored throughout the experiment; and clinical evaluation, testicular consistence and scrotal circumference were measured before every semen collection. In addition, semen was evaluated regarding volume, aspect, turbulence, motility, straight movement, sperm concentration, and morphological exam. The studied Brahman bulls showed a high thermolysis capacity, high heat tolerance, and no differences in semen quality were observed between groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Fantinato
- Veterinarian, Departamento de Zootecnia (ZAZ), Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos (FZEA), Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Campus “Fernando Costa”, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil.
- Correspondence Paulo Fantinato Neto Departamento de Medicina Veterinária - ZMV, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos - FZEA, Universidade de São Paulo - USP Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus “Fernando Costa” CEP 13635-900 - Pirassununga (SP), Brasil E-mail:
| | | | | | - Reíssa Alves Vilela
- Zootechnist, ZAZ, FZEA, USP. Campus “Fernando Costa”, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil.
| | | | - André Furugen Cesar de Andrade
- Veterinarian, Departamento de Reprodução Animal (VRA), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ), USP. Campus “Fernando Costa”, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil.
| | - Rubens Paes Arruda
- Veterinarian, DSc., VRA, FMVZ, USP. Campus “Fernando Costa”, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil.
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fernandez-Novo A, Pérez-Garnelo SS, Villagrá A, Pérez-Villalobos N, Astiz S. The Effect of Stress on Reproduction and Reproductive Technologies in Beef Cattle-A Review. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E2096. [PMID: 33187308 PMCID: PMC7697448 DOI: 10.3390/ani10112096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Researchers have contributed by increasing our understanding of the factors affecting reproduction in beef, mainly physical health and nutrition aspects, which have been main concerns during decades. Animal welfare is of outmost relevance in all animal production systems and it is strongly associated to stress. Stress responses involve endocrine, paracrine and neural systems and the consequences of this stress on the reproductive efficiency of specifically, beef cattle and bulls, need to be highlighted. We, therefore, describe the fundamentals of stress and its quantification, focusing in beef herds, reviewing the highly valuable pieces of research, already implemented in this field. We examine major factors (stressors) contributing to stress in beef cattle and their effects on the animals, their reproductive performance and the success of reproductive biotechnologies. We include terms such as acclimatization, acclimation or temperament, very relevant in beef systems. We examine specifically the management stress due to handling, social environment and hierarchy or weaning effects; nutritional stress; and thermal stress (not only heat stress) and also review the influence of these stressors on reproductive performance and effectiveness of reproductive biotechnologies in beef herds. A final message on the attention that should be devoted to these factors is highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Fernandez-Novo
- Bovitecnia, Veterinary Consulting, C/Arévalo 5, Colmenar Viejo, 28770 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Sonia S. Pérez-Garnelo
- Animal Reproduction Department, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Avda, Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Arantxa Villagrá
- Centro de Tecnología Animal—Instituto Valenciano de Investigaciones Agrarias (CITA-IVIA), Polígono La Esperanza 100, 12400 Segorbe, Spain;
| | - Natividad Pérez-Villalobos
- Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Europea de Madrid, C/Tajo s/n, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Susana Astiz
- Animal Reproduction Department, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Avda, Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Morgan HL, Eid N, Khoshkerdar A, Watkins AJ. Defining the male contribution to embryo quality and offspring health in assisted reproduction in farm animals. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20200018. [PMID: 33029211 PMCID: PMC7534566 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination have delivered significant benefits for farm animal reproduction. However, as with humans, assisted reproduction in livestock requires the manipulation of the gametes and preimplantation embryo. The significance of this ‘periconception’ period is that it represents the transition from parental genome regulation to that of the newly formed embryo. Environmental perturbations during these early developmental stages can result in persistent changes in embryonic gene expression, fetal organ development and ultimately the long-term health of the offspring. While associations between maternal health and offspring wellbeing are well-defined, the significance of paternal health for the quality of his semen and the post-conception development of his offspring have largely been overlooked. Human and animal model studies have identified sperm epigenetic status (DNA methylation levels, histone modifications and RNA profiles) and seminal plasma-mediated maternal uterine immunological, inflammatory and vascular responses as the two central mechanisms capable of linking paternal health and post-fertilisation development. However, there is a significant knowledge gap about the father’s contribution to the long-term health of his offspring, especially with regard to farm animals. Such insights are essential to ensure the safety of widely used assisted reproductive practices and to gain better understanding of the role of paternal health for the well-being of his offspring. In this article, we will outline the impact of male health on semen quality (both sperm and seminal plasma), reproductive fitness and post-fertilisation offspring development and explore the mechanisms underlying the paternal programming of offspring health in farm animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Louise Morgan
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Nader Eid
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Afsaneh Khoshkerdar
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Adam John Watkins
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's Medical Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sabés-Alsina M, Lundeheim N, Johannisson A, López-Béjar M, Morrell J. Relationships between climate and sperm quality in dairy bull semen: A retrospective analysis. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:5623-5633. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
|
10
|
Does low-level laser therapy on degenerated ovine testes improve post-thawed sperm characteristics? Lasers Med Sci 2018; 34:1001-1009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10103-018-2690-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
11
|
Scarlet D, Aurich C, Ille N, Walter I, Weber C, Pieler D, Peinhopf W, Wohlsein P, Aurich J. Anti-Muellerian hormone, inhibin A, gonadotropins, and gonadotropin receptors in bull calves after partial scrotal resection, orchidectomy, and Burdizzo castration. Theriogenology 2016; 87:242-249. [PMID: 27693012 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Eight-week-old calves were either castrated by partial scrotal resection (SR) without removing the testes (n = 10), Burdizzo (BZ) clamp (n = 10), orchidectomy (OR; n = 10), or were left gonad intact as controls (CO; n = 10). Concentrations of anti-Muellerian hormone (AMH), inhibin A, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in plasma were determined from 16 to 48 weeks of age. At 18 months, testes of SR, BZ, and CO bulls were obtained and the immunolocalization of LH and FSH receptors and AMH analyzed. Concentration of AMH in plasma of CO and SR bulls decreased with increasing age (P < 0.001). A similar AMH profile in CO and SR indicates that SR did not induce a true cryptorchid state. In groups OR and BZ, AMH was undetectable. Plasma inhibin concentration was higher in groups CO and SR than BZ and OR (P < 0.001). Plasma LH and FSH concentrations decreased over time (P < 0.001) and were higher in groups BZ and OR than SR and CO (P < 0.001). In the testes, immunolabeling for AMH existed in Sertoli cells of CO and SR but not BZ bulls. FSH receptors were localized in Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, spermatocytes, and the epididymis of CO and SR animals, whereas LH receptors were restricted to Leydig cells. In BZ animals, FSH and LH receptors and AMH were absent, indicating complete testicular degeneration. In conclusion, AMH is a more reliable marker for the presence of testicular tissue in bulls than inhibin. Scrotal resection did not induce a true inguinal cryptorchid state but affected testicular responsiveness to gonadotropic stimulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dragos Scarlet
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Department for Small Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Christine Aurich
- Centre for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Natascha Ille
- Centre for Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingrid Walter
- Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Dagmar Pieler
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Department for Small Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jörg Aurich
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology, Department for Small Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kastelic JP, Brito LFC. Ultrasonography for monitoring reproductive function in the bull. Reprod Domest Anim 2012; 47 Suppl 3:45-51. [PMID: 22681298 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2012.02042.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Diagnostic ultrasonography has been widely used for examination of the reproductive tract of female cattle, but more sparingly in bulls. Typical clinical ultrasonographic examinations of bull testes are unlikely to affect semen quality or sperm production. The ultrasonographic anatomy of bull testes and accessory sex glands has been reported. Although testicular echogenicity increased (i.e. the parenchyma appeared more white) as a bull approached puberty, echogenicity was not superior to scrotal circumference as a predictor of puberty. Ultrasonography can be used to detect and characterize testicular pathology. It is noteworthy that areas of increased echogenicity (testicular fibrosis) are common, especially in young bulls, but are not associated with decreased semen quality (e.g. percentage of morphologically abnormal sperm). Neither visual evaluation nor computerized pixel analysis of testicular ultrasonic echotexture was consistently predictive of semen quality in bulls. Therefore, we concluded that the primary clinical use of ultrasonography in assessment of reproductive function in the bull is characterization of grossly detectable lesions in the testes and scrotum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J P Kastelic
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge Research Centre, Lethbridge, AB, Canada.
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Effect of one or three timed artificial inseminations before natural service on reproductive performance of lactating dairy cows not observed for detection of estrus. Theriogenology 2012; 77:1918-27. [PMID: 22444549 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2011] [Revised: 01/14/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The objectives were to determine the effects of one or three timed artificial insemination (AI) before natural service (NS) in lactating dairy cows not observed for detection of estrus on hazard of pregnancy, days nonpregnant, and 21-days cycle pregnancy rate. A total of 1050 lactating Holstein cows were subjected to a double Ovsynch program for their first postpartum AI. On the day of first AI (78 ± 3 days in milk), cows were blocked by parity and randomly assigned to receive either one timed AI (1TAI, n = 533) or three timed AI (3TAI, n = 517) before being exposed to NS. Cows assigned to 1TAI were exposed to bulls 7 days after the first AI. Nonpregnant cows in 3TAI were resynchronized with the Ovsynch protocol supplemented with progesterone twice, with intervals between AI of 42 days, before being exposed to NS 7 days after the third AI. Cows were evaluated for pregnancy 32 days after each timed AI, or every 28 days after being exposed to NS. Pregnant cows were re-examined for pregnancy 28 days later (i.e., 60-day gestation). Exposure to heat stress was categorized based on the first AI being performed during the hot or cool season, according to the temperature-humidity index. Body condition was scored at first AI. All cows were allowed a period of 231 days of breeding, after which nonpregnant cows were censored. Pregnancy to the first AI did not differ between 1TAI and 3TAI on Day 60 after insemination (30.8 vs. 33.5%). Cows receiving 3TAI had a 15% greater hazard of pregnancy and a 17% greater 21-days cycle pregnancy rate than 1TAI and these benefits originated from the first 84 days of breeding. These changes in rate of pregnancy reduced the median and mean days nonpregnant by 9 and 10 d, respectively. Despite the long inter-AI interval in cows subjected to 3TAI, reproductive performance was improved compared with a single timed AI and subsequent exposure to NS. In dairy herds that use a combination of AI and NS, allowing cows additional opportunities to AI before onset of breeding with bulls is expected to improve reproductive performance.
Collapse
|
14
|
Rahman MB, Vandaele L, Rijsselaere T, Maes D, Hoogewijs M, Frijters A, Noordman J, Granados A, Dernelle E, Shamsuddin M, Parrish JJ, Van Soom A. Scrotal insulation and its relationship to abnormal morphology, chromatin protamination and nuclear shape of spermatozoa in Holstein-Friesian and Belgian Blue bulls. Theriogenology 2011; 76:1246-57. [PMID: 21777969 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2010] [Revised: 05/12/2011] [Accepted: 05/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to identify the stages of spermatogenesis susceptible to elevated testicular temperature in terms of sperm motility, viability, morphology, chromatin protamination and nuclear shape. The latter two valuable parameters are not included in routine semen analysis. Scrotal insulation (SI) was applied for 48 h in 2 Holstein-Friesian (HF) and 2 Belgian Blue (BB) bulls and semen was collected at 7 d intervals along with semen collection of a non-insulated bull of each breed. Semen samples were frozen and assigned to 4 groups: period 1 (preinsulation) = -7 d and 0 d, where 0 d = initiation of SI after semen collection; period 2 = 7 d (sperm presumed in the epididymis during SI); period 3 = 14 d to 42 d (cells presumed at spermiogenesis and meiosis stages during SI); period 4 = 49 d to 63 d (cells presumed at spermatocytogenesis stage during SI). The percentages of progressively motile and viable spermatozoa as assessed by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) and fluorescence microscopy, respectively were decreased whereas abnormal sperm heads, nuclear vacuoles and tail defects were increased at period 3 (P < 0.05) compared to period 1, 2 or 4 in SI bulls of both HF and BB breeds. Protamine deficient spermatozoa as observed by chromomycin A(3) (CMA(3)) staining were more present (P < 0.05) at period 2 and 3 in both breeds compared to period 1 or 4. Sperm nuclear shape as determined by Fourier harmonic amplitude (FHA) was most affected by heat stress during period 3 (P < 0.01) and a higher response was observed in BB bulls than HF bulls. In conclusion, sperm cells at the spermiogenic and meiotic stages of development are more susceptible to heat stress. The lack of chromatin protamination is the most pertinent result of heat stress, together with subtle changes in sperm head shape, which can be detected by FHA but not by conventional semen analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Bozlur Rahman
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li Y, Zhou Q, Hively R, Yang L, Small C, Griswold MD. Differential gene expression in the testes of different murine strains under normal and hyperthermic conditions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 30:325-37. [PMID: 19096088 DOI: 10.2164/jandrol.108.005934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Cryptorchidism and scrotal heating result in abnormal spermatogenesis, but the mechanism(s) prescribing this temperature sensitivity are unknown. It was previously reported that the AKR/N or MRL/MpJ-+/+ mouse testis is more heat-resistant than the testis from the C57BL/6 strain. We have attempted to probe into the mechanism(s) involved in heat sensitivity by examining global gene expression profiles of normal and heat-treated testes from C57BL/6, AKR/N, and MRL/MpJ-+/+ mice by microarray analysis. In the normal C57BL/6 testis, 415 and 416 transcripts were differentially expressed (at least 2-fold higher or lower) when compared with the normal AKR/N and MRL/MpJ-+/+ testis, respectively. The AKR/N and MRL/MpJ-+/+ strains revealed 268 differentially expressed transcripts between them. There were 231 transcripts differentially expressed between C57BL/6 and 2 purported heat-resistant strains, AKR/N and MRL/MpJ-+/+. Next, the testes of C57BL/6 and AKR/N mice were exposed to 43 degrees C for 15 minutes and harvested at different time points for terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) studies and microarrays. An increase of TUNEL-positive germ cell numbers was significant 8 hours after heat exposure in the C57BL/6 mouse. However, this increase was not observed in the AKR/N mouse until 10 hours after heat exposure. All tubules showed germ cell loss and disruption in C57BL/6 testis 24 hours after heat shock. In contrast, although a number of seminiferous tubules showed an abnormal morphology 24 hours post-heat shock in the AKR/N mouse, many tubules still retained a normal structure. Numerous transcripts exhibited differential regulation between the 2 strains within 24 hours after heat exposure. The differentially expressed transcripts in the testes 8 hours after heat exposure were targeted to identify the genes involved in the initial response rather than those attributable to germ cell loss. Twenty transcripts were significantly down-regulated and 19 genes were up-regulated by hyperthermia in C57BL/6 and did not show a parallel change in the AKR/N testis. Conversely, heat shock resulted in 30 up-regulated transcripts and 31 down-regulated transcripts in AKR/N that were not similarly regulated in C57BL/6. A number of genes shared similar differential expression patterns and differential regulation by hyperthermia in both strains of mice. Taken together, the results of the present study indicate that the diverse genetic backgrounds in the 3 strains lead to major differences in normal testis gene expression profiles, whereas the differences in heat shock responses involve a significantly smaller number of genes. The data generated may provide insights regarding gene networks and pathways involved in heat stress and their relationship to spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Barth AD, Alisio L, Avilés M, Arteaga AA, Campbell JR, Hendrick SH. Fibrotic lesions in the testis of bulls and relationship to semen quality. Anim Reprod Sci 2007; 106:274-88. [PMID: 17561360 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2007.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2007] [Accepted: 05/03/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Ultrasonography of the testes was done in bulls at three locations in western Canada (n=325) and one in Argentina (n=387) to determine the prevalence of fibrotic lesions and to examine the relationship between fibrotic lesions and location, age, breed, right compared with left testes, testis size and semen quality. Fibrotic lesions were common in the testes of bulls raised under intensive rearing conditions in western Canada as well as in the more extensive rearing conditions of Argentina. Fibrotic lesions appeared as early as 5-6 months of age and the number of cases continued to increase until at least 12-14 months of age. The severity of lesions increased in some cases during this period; however, it appears that the development of lesions occurred during a finite period of pubertal development. It is unlikely that the prevalence of lesions is influenced by breed, right compared with left testes or testis size. The cause of the lesions is unknown, but there was an association between the development of fibrotic lesions and an outbreak of BRSV disease in Argentina in one group of bulls. There was some indication that during the active process that leads to fibrosis spermatogenesis is adversely affected; however, the presence of a large number of fibrotic lesions that may occupy as much as 50% of the testis parenchyma did not preclude the production of a greater percentage of sperm with normal morphology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Albert D Barth
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada S7N 5B4.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Izadyar F, Den Ouden K, Creemers LB, Posthuma G, Parvinen M, De Rooij DG. Proliferation and differentiation of bovine type A spermatogonia during long-term culture. Biol Reprod 2003; 68:272-81. [PMID: 12493723 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.004986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was aimed at developing a method for long-term culture of bovine type A spermatogonia. Testes from 5-mo-old calves were used, and pure populations of type A spermatogonia were isolated. Cells were cultured in minimal essential medium (MEM) or KSOM (potassium-rich medium prepared according to the simplex optimization method) and different concentrations of fetal calf serum (FCS) for 2-4 wk at 32 degrees C or 37 degrees C. Culture in MEM resulted in more viable cells and more proliferation than culture in KSOM, and better results were obtained at 37 degrees C than at 32 degrees C. After 1 wk of culture in the absence of serum, only 20% of the cells were alive. However, in the presence of 2.5% FCS, approximately 80% of cells were alive and proliferating. Higher concentrations of FCS only enhanced numbers of somatic cells. In long-term culture, spermatogonia continued to proliferate, and eventually, type A spermatogonial colonies were formed. The majority of colonies consisted mostly of groups of cells connected by intercellular bridges. Most of the cells in these colonies underwent differentiation because they were c-kit positive, and ultimately, cells with morphological and molecular characteristics of spermatocytes and spermatids were formed. Occasionally, large round colonies consisting of single, c-kit-negative, type A spermatogonia (presumably spermatogonial stem cells) were observed. For the first time to our knowledge, a method has been developed to allow proliferation and differentiation of highly purified type A spermatogonia, including spermatogonial stem cells during long-term culture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fariborz Izadyar
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Biology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3548 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|