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Faccin JEG, Tokach MD, Goodband RD, DeRouchey JM, Woodworth JC, Gebhardt JT. Gilt development to improve offspring performance and survivability. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6609152. [PMID: 35708589 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Methods for developing incoming replacement gilts can indirectly and directly influence survivability of their offspring. Indirectly, having proper gilt development reduces culling rates and mortality, which increases longevity and creates a more mature sow herd. Older sows are more likely to have greater immunity than gilts and therefore can pass this along to their pigs in both quantity and quality of colostrum and milk, thus improving piglet survivability. Directly, proper gilt development will maximize mammary gland development which increases colostrum and milk production leading to large, healthy pig. As for the developing gilt at birth, increasing colostrum intake, reducing nursing pressure, providing adequate space allowance, and good growth rate can increase the likelihood that gilts successfully enter and remain in the herd. Light birth weight gilts (<1 kg) or gilts from litters with low birth weight should be removed early in the selection process. Gilts should be weaned at 24 d of age or older and then can be grown in a variety of ways as long as lifetime growth rate is over 600 g/d. Current genetic lines with exceptional growth rate run the risk of being bred too heavy, reducing longevity. On the other hand, restricting feed intake at specific times could be detrimental to mammary development. In these situations, reducing diet amino acid concentration and allowing ad libitum feed is a possible strategy. Gilts should be bred between 135 and 160 kg and at second estrus or later while in a positive metabolic state to increase lifetime productivity and longevity in the herd. Once bred, gilts should be fed to maintain or build body reserves without becoming over-conditioned at farrowing. Proper body condition at farrowing impacts the percentage of pigs born alive as well as colostrum and milk production, and consequently, offspring performance and survivability. Combined with the benefit in pig immunity conferred by an older sow parity structure, gilt development has lasting impacts on offspring performance and survivability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamil E G Faccin
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-0201, USA
| | - Mike D Tokach
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-0201, USA
| | - Robert D Goodband
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-0201, USA
| | - Joel M DeRouchey
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-0201, USA
| | - Jason C Woodworth
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-0201, USA
| | - Jordan T Gebhardt
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-0201, USA
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Latest Advances in Sow Nutrition during Early Gestation. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061720. [PMID: 34207640 PMCID: PMC8227264 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the pig, the establishment and maintenance of luteal function in early gestation is crucial to endometrial function, embryo development, and survival. The level of feed intake has a positive effect on formation of luteal tissue and progesterone secretion by the ovaries in the pre-implantation period, which is important for endometrial remodeling and secretion. These effects are independent of luteinising hormone (LH) and probably driven by metabolic cues, such as insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), and seem to support progesterone secretion and delivery to the endometrium, the latter which occurs directly, bypassing the systemic circulation. Even after implantation, a high feed intake seems to improve embryo survival and the maintenance of pregnancy. In this stage, luteal function is LH-dependent, although normal variations in energy intake may not result in pregnancy failure, but may contribute to nutrient supply to the embryos, since in this phase uterine capacity becomes limiting. Feed incidents, however, such as unintended fasting of animals or severe competition for feed, may result in embryo or even pregnancy loss, especially in periods of seasonal infertility. Specific nutrients such as arginine have a role in the vascularisation of the placenta and can improve the uterine capacity in the period after implantation.
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Naturil-Alfonso C, Marco-Jiménez F, Pascual J, Vicente J. Effect of restricted feeding under rearing on reproduction, body condition and blood metabolites of rabbit does selected for growth rate. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2017.6848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Young rabbit females selected for growth rate can have nutritional needs which may not be met by the common practice of feed restriction during rearing in commercial rabbit production. The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of two different feeding programmes: restricted and ad libitum feeding, applied in young rabbit females for one month at the end of rearing, on reproductive performance, body condition and circulating metabolic hormones and metabolites in a rabbit line selected by growth rate in 3 consecutive reproductive cycles. Thus, twenty-four 16-week-old does were randomly assigned to a group in which the daily recommended nutrient intakes were satisfied (fed restricted: 130 g/day, n=13) or a group fed to satiety (ad libitum: 235.5 g/day, n=11) during one month. Then, all does were inseminated in 3 consecutive cycles using a 42-day reproductive cycle. Measurements of does’ body weight, perirenal fat thickness and plasma leptin, non-esterified-fatty-acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BOHB) and fructosamine were performed at artificial insemination (AI), parturition and weaning time in 3 consecutive cycles. Reproductive performance of does was evaluated based on fertility, litter size at parturition, prolificacy and productivity. Differences in body weight were found only in the 1<sup>st</sup> cycle, ad libitum fed females being heavier than restricted ones. Nevertheless, body weight variances disappeared in later cycles. No differences were found in perirenal fat thickness. Finally, in ad libitum fed females slight differences were found in plasma levels of NEFAs (452 vs. 258 μekv/L and 527 vs. 306 μekv/L for 1<sup>st</sup> and 2<sup>nd</sup> cycles) and BOHB (0.26 vs. 0.03 mM for 2<sup>nd</sup> cycle), but disappeared in the 3<sup>rd</sup> reproductive cycle. Fertility, prolificacy and productivity was not significantly affected by the feeding programme. Nevertheless, total litter size showed to be higher in ad libitum fed females at second parturition (8.7 vs. 5.9 kits). Therefore, the evaluated feeding programmes until first AI in females selected by growth rate had no effect on their reproductive outcomes, as the global reproductive performance was not affected.
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Wang J, Feng C, Liu T, Shi M, Wu G, Bazer FW. Physiological alterations associated with intrauterine growth restriction in fetal pigs: Causes and insights for nutritional optimization. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:897-904. [PMID: 28661576 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) remains a major problem in swine production since the associated low birth weight leads to high rates of pre-weaning morbidity and mortality plus permanent retardation of growth and development. Complex biological events-including genetics, epigenetics, maternal maturity, maternal nutrition, placenta efficiency, uterine capacity, and other environmental factors-can affect fetal growth and development during late gestation, as well as maturity of oocytes, duration of estrus, and both implantation and placentation of conceptuses in uteri of sows. Understanding the physiological changes related to initiation and progress of IUGR are, therefore, of great importance to formulate nutritional strategies that can mitigate IUGR in gilts and sows. Altering the nutritional status of sows prior to mating and during early-, mid-, and late-gestation may be effective at increasing the uniformity of oocytes and conceptuses, decreasing variation among conceptuses during elongation and implantation, and preventing increases in within-litter variation in fetal weights during late gestation. This review summarizes current progress on physiological alterations responsible for IUGR fetuses, as well as possible nutritional interventions to prevent the initiation and continuation of IUGR in gilts and sows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Cuiping Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoyao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
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Naturil-Alfonso C, Peñaranda DS, Vicente JS, Marco-Jiménez F. Feed restriction regime in a rabbit line selected for growth rate alters oocyte maturation manifested by alteration in MSY2 gene expression. Reprod Domest Anim 2017. [PMID: 28627068 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Young rabbit females selected for growth rate may have nutritional needs, which may not be met with the common practice of feed restriction during rearing in commercial rabbit production. The aim of this study was to analyse whether two different feeding programmes: ad libitum or restricted (130 g/day) feeding, applied in young rabbit females for 1 month at the end of rearing, could modulate the origin of ovulation process and the quality of the oocytes. At 16 weeks of age, 34 females were randomly assigned to restricted or ad libitum feeding, maintaining these conditions for a month. Then, in an initial experiment, transcriptional profiling of hypothalamus-hypophysis tissue was performed to assess failure to ovulate. In the second experiment, the gene expression analysis of some candidate genes related to oocytes quality was performed. Our results demonstrated that neither of the two feeding programmes modified the transcription of hypothalamus-hypophysis tissue, while the only differences in MSYR expression were found in in vivo mature oocytes ready for successful fertilization. Specifically, MSYR was over-expressed in oocytes from females fed ad libitum. MSYR is one of the most abundant proteins in the oocyte and has proven to be a key regulator of maternal RNA transcription and translation. This finding suggests that MSYR gene is a promising gene in our understanding of the relationship between high growth rate and reproductive performance decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Naturil-Alfonso
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción, Universitat Politécnica de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - D S Peñaranda
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción, Universitat Politécnica de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - J S Vicente
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción, Universitat Politécnica de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - F Marco-Jiménez
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción, Universitat Politécnica de València, Valencia, Spain
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van Wettere WHEJ, Mitchell M, Revell DK, Hughes PE. Pre- and peri-pubertal feed intake: effects on age at puberty and potential litter size of replacement gilts. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1071/an15871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The effect of moderate restriction of pre- and peri-pubertal liveweight gain on puberty attainment and potential litter size was investigated. At 69 days of age, 48 Large White/Landrace crossbred gilts (28.3 ± 0.3 kg), were fed to attain a liveweight of 70 kg (LIGHT) or 100 kg (HEAVY) at 161 days of age (n = 24 gilts/treatment). At 161 days of age, half the gilts in each group were fed to gain liveweight at 0.5 (LOW) or 1.0 (HIGH) kg/day until puberty (n = 12 gilts/treatment). From 175 days of age, gilts received 20 min/day of full, physical boar contact. Gilts were artificially inseminated at the pubertal oestrus, with reproductive tracts collected 22 ± 0.1 days later, and the number of corpora lutea and viable embryos recorded. LIGHT-LOW gilts were older (P < 0.05) at puberty compared with LIGHT-HIGH, HEAVY-LOW and HEAVY-HIGH gilts; 207.7 ± 3.50 versus 191.7 ± 3.65, 193.1 ± 3.50 and 192.5 ± 3.65, respectively. Treatment (HIGH vs LOW) increased (P < 0.05) pubertal ovulation rate (15.2 ± 0.43 vs 13.1 ± 0.47), oestradiol at oestrus (13.4 ± 1.87 vs 9.1 ± 1.22 pg/mL) and progesterone 72 h post-oestrus (7.1 ± 0.48 vs 4.6 ± 0.50 ng/mL). Embryo number (10.8 ± 0.46) and survival (77.0 ± 3.21) were unaffected (P > 0.05) by treatment. To conclude, puberty was delayed by chronic, but not acute, dietary restriction. Although short-term, moderate increases in feed intake increased pubertal ovulation rates, embryo numbers and survival were unaffected.
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Langendijk P, Chen TY, McIlfatrick SM, Nottle MB. Energy balance influences number of ovulations rather than embryo quality in the pig. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1008-1013. [PMID: 27125697 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Revised: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to examine the effect of feed restriction on ovulation rate and in vivo blastocyst development in gilts and sows. In the first experiment, gilts were feed restricted (1 vs. 2.5 times maintenance requirement) during the luteal and follicular phases before ovulation. In the second experiment, primiparous sows were feed restricted (ad lib vs. 60% thereof) during the last week of lactation before weaning. Gilts and sows were slaughtered at 5 days after ovulation to determine ovulation rate and blastocyst development. Blastocysts were also differentially stained to determine the effect of feed restriction on total, trophectoderm, and inner cell mass cell numbers. In both experiments, feed restriction delayed ovulation and reduced the number of ovulations in gilts (14.8 ± 1.3 vs. 12.0 ± 0.2; P < 0.05) and in sows (19.9 ± 1.0 vs. 18.4 ± 0.7). The number of blastocysts recovered on Day 5 was similarly reduced in gilts (12.0 ± 1.7 vs. 9.1 ± 1.1; P < 0.10) and in sows (15.9 ± 1.5 vs. 14.7 ± 1.0). However, feed restriction did not affect total, trophectoderm, or inner cell mass cell numbers in gilts or sows. In conclusion, the present study reported that energy balance influences ovulation rate and blastocyst number rather than blastocyst viability as measured by cell number.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieter Langendijk
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia.
| | - Tai-Yuan Chen
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South Australia
| | - Stephen M McIlfatrick
- Robinson Institute, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia
| | - Mark B Nottle
- Robinson Institute, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia
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8
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Naturil-Alfonso C, Lavara R, Vicente JS, Marco-Jiménez F. Effects of Female Dietary Restriction in a Rabbit Growth Line During Rearing on Reproductive Performance and Embryo Quality. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 51:114-22. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C Naturil-Alfonso
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology; Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción; Universidad Politécnica de Valencia; Valencia Spain
| | - R Lavara
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology; Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción; Universidad Politécnica de Valencia; Valencia Spain
- Department of Production and Animal Health; General Veterinary Health and the Science and Technology of Food Products; University CEU Cardenal Herrera; Valencia Spain
| | - JS Vicente
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology; Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción; Universidad Politécnica de Valencia; Valencia Spain
| | - F Marco-Jiménez
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology; Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción; Universidad Politécnica de Valencia; Valencia Spain
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Che L, Yang Z, Xu M, Zhang Z, Liu P, Xu S, Che L, Lin Y, Fang Z, Feng B, Li J, Wu D. Dietary energy intake affects fetal survival and development during early and middle pregnancy in Large White and Meishan gilts. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 1:152-159. [PMID: 29767162 PMCID: PMC5945974 DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2015.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This experiment was designed to determine the effects of variations in dietary energy intake on reproductive performance and gene expression of luteal and endometrium tissues in Large White (LW) and Meishan (MS) gilts during early and middle pregnancy. After insemination, 32 LW gilts were assigned to high and low (HEL and LEL, 14.23 and 12.56 MJ DE/kg, respectively) diet treatment groups, while 32 MS gilts were allocated to HEM and LEM (12.56 and 10.88 MJ DE/kg) groups. Gilts were slaughtered on days 35, 55 and 90 of gestation. The fetal survival and luteal progesterone (P4) concentration in the HEL group were higher on day 35 but lower on day 90 of gestation compared with the LEL group (P < 0.05) for LW gilts. However, fetal survival and luteal P4 concentration on day 35 of gestation were greater (P < 0.05) in the LEM group than in the HEM group for MS gilts, but no significant difference in mid-gestation was showed. The fetal weights of both breeds were higher for the high energy diets compared with the respective control group on day 90 of gestation (P < 0.05). In addition, the mRNA levels of P4 synthesis-related proteins had correlated with luteal P4 concentration in both breeds. Further, endometrial levels of uteroferrin (ACP5), retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) and secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) mRNA were upregulated in the HEL group on day 35 of gestation but ACP5 and SPP1 were downregulated on day 55 of gestation compared with the LEL group (P < 0.05) for LW gilts. In MS gilts, diet only affected the expression of SPP1 (P < 0.05). Our results revealed the differential sensitivity of LW and MS breeds to variations in dietary energy intake. For LW gilts, the HEL group improved fetal survival on day 35 but a sustained high energy diet decreased fetal survival on day 90 of gestation. The differences in dietary energy intake did not influence fetal survival on day 90 of gestation but the higher energy diet did increase fetal weight in the MS breed compared with the lower energy intake diet. These results may be due to differential luteal secretion activity and endometrium gene expression in these two breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Che
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Zhenguo Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Mengmeng Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Ziyun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Peilin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Shengyu Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Lianqiang Che
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Yan Lin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Zhengfeng Fang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Bin Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - Jian Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
| | - De Wu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition and Feed Science, Ministry of Agriculture, PR China.,Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya׳an, 625014, PR China
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10
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Condous PC, Kirkwood RN, van Wettere WHEJ. The effect of pre- and post-mating dietary restriction on embryonic survival in gilts. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 148:130-6. [PMID: 24974187 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Revised: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this study were to determine if pre- and post-mating feeding levels interact to affect embryonic survival, and to determine whether feeding to the maintenance requirement would impair embryo survival. Gilts were allocated to a pre-mating treatment of 1 or 0.8× energy maintenance from day 1 to 14 of their oestrous cycle prior to mating. From day 15 to mating all gilts were group housed and fed ad lib. Gilts were artificially inseminated at their third oestrus. The day after mating, gilts were group housed and allocated to post-mating treatments of 1.5 or 1× maintenance. Gilts were slaughtered day 25.5±0.2 post-insemination and reproductive tracts collected. Gilts fed the restricted pre-mating diet lost significantly more weight than gilts fed the increased pre-mating diet (6.7±0.8 versus 3.7±0.7kg). From mating to slaughter, gilts fed the restricted post-mating diet lost 0.5±1.02kg liveweight, while gilts fed the increased post-mating diet gained 5.7±0.90kg liveweight (P<0.05). The pre-mating dietary treatment had no effect on any reproductive measure. Embryonic survival was greater (P<0.05) in gilts fed the high post-mating diet compared with gilts fed the low post-mating diet (88.4±2.5 versus 77.8±4.0%), resulting in more (P<0.05) conceptuses present (14.0±0.6 versus 11.7±0.7). There was no interaction between pre-mating and post-mating feed intake on any reproductive measure. These data demonstrated that reducing post-mating feed intakes to maintenance levels impaired embryo survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Condous
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia.
| | - R N Kirkwood
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - W H E J van Wettere
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
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Wientjes JGM, Soede NM, Knol EF, van den Brand H, Kemp B. Piglet birth weight and litter uniformity: Effects of weaning-to-pregnancy interval and body condition changes in sows of different parities and crossbred lines1. J Anim Sci 2013; 91:2099-107. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2012-5659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J. G. M. Wientjes
- Wageningen University, Department of Animal Sciences, Adaptation Physiology Group, PO Box 338, 6700AH, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - N. M. Soede
- Wageningen University, Department of Animal Sciences, Adaptation Physiology Group, PO Box 338, 6700AH, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - E. F. Knol
- Institute for Pig Genetics BV, PO Box 43, 6640 AA, Beuningen, The Netherlands
| | - H. van den Brand
- Wageningen University, Department of Animal Sciences, Adaptation Physiology Group, PO Box 338, 6700AH, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - B. Kemp
- Wageningen University, Department of Animal Sciences, Adaptation Physiology Group, PO Box 338, 6700AH, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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12
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Weaver AC, Kelly JM, Kind KL, Gatford KL, Kennaway DJ, Herde PJ, van Wettere WHEJ. Oocyte maturation and embryo survival in nulliparous female pigs (gilts) is improved by feeding a lupin-based high-fibre diet. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 25:1216-23. [DOI: 10.1071/rd12329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Inclusion of high levels of the high-fibre ingredient sugar-beet pulp in pre-mating diets has been shown to increase gonadotrophin concentrations and improve oocyte quality in nulliparous pigs (gilts). This study evaluated the effects of two alternative fibre sources on reproductive performance in gilts. Gilts received one of three diets from 3 weeks before puberty stimulation until Day 19 of the first oestrous cycle: control (39 g kg–1 fibre), bran (500 g kg–1 wheat bran, 65 g kg–1 fibre) or lupin (350 g kg–1 lupin, 118 g kg–1 crude fibre). Diet did not affect circulating LH concentrations or ovarian follicle size. However, a higher percentage of oocytes collected from lupin-supplemented gilts reached metaphase II in vitro compared with those collected from bran-fed or control gilts (89 ± 5% versus 72 ± 5% and 66 ± 5%, respectively; P < 0.05). Furthermore, in a second experiment, gilts fed the same lupin-based diet before mating had improved embryo survival (92 ± 5%) on Day 28 after mating compared with control gilts (76 ± 4%; P < 0.05). Therefore, feeding a high-fibre diet before mating can improve oocyte quality in gilts without changes in circulating LH, but this effect is dependent on the fibre source.
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13
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Chen TY, Stott P, Athorn RZ, Bouwman EG, Langendijk P. Undernutrition during early follicle development has irreversible effects on ovulation rate and embryos. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:886-92. [PMID: 22781940 DOI: 10.1071/rd11292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2011] [Accepted: 02/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assessed carry-over effects of energy level during the early antral phase and subsequent follicular phase on follicle recruitment and ovulation rate. Gilts (n=45) were fed a standard diet to a low (L, ~1.2kg day(-1)) or high (H, ~2.7kg day(-1)) level during the early antral (luteal) phase, and subsequently fed a H or L feed level during the follicular phase, resulting in four treatment groups (HH, HL, LH and LL). Follicle size at the end of the luteal phase was greater for gilts fed a high feed level previously (3.3vs3.0mm; P<0.05). During the follicular phase, high feeding increased follicle size at Day 5 (6.9vs6.2mm; P<0.005) and plasma oestradiol concentration (P<0.05). Nevertheless, a low feed level during the luteal phase reduced ovulation rate (14.4vs13.2; P<0.05) and embryo number (12.6vs10.5; P<0.05), and this was not counteracted by feed level during the follicular phase. Plasma progesterone concentration after ovulation was lower for LL gilts than for other treatments (P<0.05). These results indicate that undernutrition during early antral follicle development may have a residual effect on follicle recruitment and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Y Chen
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia.
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Fleming TP, Lucas ES, Watkins AJ, Eckert JJ. Adaptive responses of the embryo to maternal diet and consequences for post-implantation development. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:35-44. [DOI: 10.1071/rd11905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal periconceptional (PC) nutrition, coupled with maternal physiological condition, can impact on reproductive performance and potential across mammalian species. Oocyte quality and embryo development are affected adversely by either nutrient restriction or excess. Moreover, the quality of maternal PC nutrition can have lasting effects through fetal development and postnatally into adulthood. Chronic disease, notably cardiovascular and metabolic disease, and abnormal behaviour have been identified in adult offspring in small and large animal models of PC nutrient restriction. These long-term effects associate with compensatory responses that begin from the time of early embryo development. This review assesses the field of PC nutrition in vivo on short- and long-term developmental consequences in rodent and ruminant models and considers the implications for human health.
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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: II. Luteal Development, Progesterone and Conceptus Development and Uniformity1. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 47:62-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01802.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Athorn RZ, Stott P, Bouwman EG, Ashman R, O'Leary S, Nottle M, Langendijk P. Direct ovarian - uterine transfer of progesterone increases embryo survival in gilts. Reprod Fertil Dev 2011; 23:921-8. [DOI: 10.1071/rd10333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Accepted: 04/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study employed a unilateral ovariectomy model to investigate the relevance of the local supply of progesterone (ovary) compared with the systemic supply of progesterone, in terms of embryo survival in the ipsilateral uterine horn as opposed to the contralateral uterine horn. Thirty gilts were unilaterally ovariectomised (ULO) during the luteal stage of their first oestrous cycle. Half of the ULO gilts were fed at 1.2 maintenance requirement (M), while the other half were fed at 2.4 M. Across ULO gilts 0.8 more embryos survived in the ipsilateral horn compared with the contralateral horn at Day 35 of gestation (P < 0.05). In ULO gilts on the 2.4 M feed level the difference (+1.3; P < 0.05) between the ipsi- and contralateral horn was more pronounced than on the 1.2 M feed level (+0.4; NS). The higher feed level reduced circulating levels of systemic progesterone on Day 5 of pregnancy but not embryo survival at Day 35. However, post-implantation embryo survival was lower on the low feed level. In conclusion, these data indicate that local progesterone supply from the ovaries to the uterus contributes to the probability of embryo survival.
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Zhou D, Fang Z, Wu D, Zhuo Y, Xu S, Wang Y, Zhou P, Lin Y. Dietary energy source and feeding levels during the rearing period affect ovarian follicular development and oocyte maturation in gilts. Theriogenology 2010; 74:202-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2009] [Revised: 01/10/2010] [Accepted: 01/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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18
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De W, Ai-rong Z, Yan L, Sheng-yu X, Hai-yan G, Yong Z. Effect of feeding allowance level on embryonic survival, IGF-1, insulin, GH, leptin and progesterone secretion in early pregnancy gilts. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2009; 93:577-85. [PMID: 18700853 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0396.2008.00844.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The present experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding allowance level on embryonic survival, uterine development and reproductive hormone secretion in early gestation gilts. A total of 54 F1 crosses of Landrace x Large white gilts were randomly allocated to three treatment groups of high (H, 2 x maintenance), medium (M, 1.2 x maintenance) and low (L, 0.6 x maintenance) feeding level after mating. Blood samples and uterine flushings were collected on day 12, 25 and 35 of pregnancy, and embryonic survival rate was estimated. Concentrations of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF)-1, insulin, growth harmone (GH), leptin and progesterone in serum and uterine flushings were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Embryonic survival was affected by dietary treatment; total number of viable embryos and embryo survival of group M were higher than other groups in the early pregnancy (p < 0.05). Greater foetal weight in M gilts was achieved when gestation advanced to day 35 (p < 0.05), though there was no difference on day 25 of pregnancy among treatments. No appreciable differences were observed in the crown-rump length on day 25 and 35 of pregnancy among groups. Greater weight of uterus and products of conception were identified in M gilts compared with group H and L (p = 0.024 and p = 0.005, respectively) on day 25 of pregnancy. The hormone level was greatly affected by feeding allowance level. In serum, concentrations of IGF-1, leptin and insulin tended to be greater in H than in M and L during the early gestation, while concentrations of GH were greater in M and progesterone were the lowest in H. At the same time, feed allowance level affected the concentration of IGF-1, insulin, GH, leptin and progesterone in uterine flushings. These data demonstrated that feed allowance level after mating has important consequence on embryo survival, embryo development and uterine development, possibly mediated by nutrition level inducing changes in concentrations of reproductive hormones and/or intermediary metabolites in early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- W De
- Animal Nutrition Institute of Sichuan Agricultural University, Sichuan, Ya'an, China.
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Arias-Álvarez M, García-García RM, Rebollar PG, Nicodemus N, Millán P, Revuelta L, Lorenzo PL. Follicular, oocyte and embryo features related to metabolic status in primiparous lactating does fed with high-fibre rearing diets. Reprod Domest Anim 2009; 45:e91-e100. [PMID: 19968836 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2009.01528.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: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Fertility of primiparous lactating does in the early postpartum (pp) period is very low mainly due to pronounced deficient energy intake, influencing oocyte and embryo developmental competence. The hypothesis used in this work was that high-lignin fibre diet supplied during the rearing period could increase feed intake and, consequently, improve the reproductive physiology and metabolic status of primiparous does in the early pp period. Diets with high-lignin [HL: 15.8% dry matter (DM)] or standard-lignin content (SL: 4.9% DM) were supplied until parturition time. No diet effects in serum oestradiol, progesterone concentrations and follicle categories were found in the histological study. Metaphase II rate of in vitro-matured oocytes was significantly higher in the SL vs the HL group (p < 0.001). Cytoplasmically degenerated oocytes (in terms of abnormal distribution of cortical granules) and follicular atresia rate were significantly lower in the SL group than in the HL group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.005 respectively). In addition, HL-fed does showed lower number of viable embryos and higher rate of retarded in vivo-recovered embryos compared with the SL group (p < 0.05). Neither in vitro embryo development of viable embryos nor conception rate was significantly different between groups. Feed intake increased during the first pregnancy in the HL group (p < 0.05), but not during early lactation. Serum protein, non-esterified fatty acid and leptin concentrations, as well as estimated body composition were similar in does fed with both diets. In conclusion, the enhancement of reproductive management by using highly lignified products in rearing diets does not seem to report physiological reproductive benefits affecting oocyte maturation rate and embryo viability in primiparous lactating does.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Arias-Álvarez
- Dpto, Fisiología Fisiología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
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Arias-Álvarez M, García-García R, Rebollar P, Nicodemus N, Revuelta L, Millán P, Lorenzo P. Effects of a lignin-rich fibre diet on productive, reproductive and endocrine parameters in nulliparous rabbit does. Livest Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2008.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Xu SY, Wu D, Guo HY, Zheng AR, Zhang G. The Level of Feed Intake Affects Embryo Survival and Gene Expression During Early Pregnancy in Gilts. Reprod Domest Anim 2009; 45:685-93. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01331.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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22
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Effect of controlled alterations in maternal dietary retinol on foetal and neonatal retinol status and pregnancy outcome in pigs. Livest Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2008.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Machado G, Fontes D, Almeida F, Borges A, Silva M, Oliveira V, Silva T. Efeitos de diferentes fontes de energia sobre taxa ovulatória, fertilidade e sobrevivência embrionária em marrãs cíclicas. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2008. [DOI: 10.1590/s0102-09352008000300012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cinqüenta e quatro marrãs cíclicas, uniformizadas quanto à linhagem, família, ganho de peso, espessura de toucinho, peso, precocidade sexual, número de cios e escore clínico, foram alocadas em dois grupos experimentais com dietas isocalóricas, isoprotéicas e isolisínicas. Duas fontes de energia foram testadas: amido de milho (T1) e óleo de soja (T2). Sincronizou-se o segundo estro com allyl-trenbolone, para inseminação no terceiro estro. Foi realizada cateterização não cirúrgica em 21 marrãs, submetidas a dois ciclos de coleta para dosagem de glicose e insulina, aos 14 e 21 dias do ciclo. Todas as marrãs foram abatidas aos 28,6 dias de gestação média, para análises biométricas do trato reprodutivo. Marrãs do T1 apresentaram maior taxa ovulatória em relação às do T2 (16,52 vs 14,70, P<0,01). Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos nas taxas de prenhez e sobrevivência embrionária. É possível alterar a eficiência reprodutiva por intermédio de manipulação dietética, mesmo em marrãs em estado anabólico. O uso do amido de milho na fase pré-cobertua melhorou a eficiência reprodutiva dos animais avaliados.
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Egerszegi I, Hazeleger W, Rátky J, Sarlós P, Kemp B, Bouwman E, Solti L, Brüssow KP. Superovulatory Ovarian Response in Mangalica Gilts is Not Influenced by Feeding Level. Reprod Domest Anim 2007; 42:441-4. [PMID: 17635784 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00790.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to compare how different feeding levels affect the ovarian potential of follicular development and oocyte maturation in response to superovulatory treatment in native Mangalica (M, n = 17) compared with Landrace (L, n = 20) pigs. Gilts of both breeds were fed high-energy (HI-2.5 kg) or low-energy (LO - 1.25 kg) feed during oestrus synchronization (15 days of Regumate feeding) till the time of oocyte aspiration (Day 6 after Regumate). Follicular growth was stimulated by the administration of 1000 IU equiue choriou gonadotropiu (eCG) 24 h after Regumate treatment, and ovulation was induced by injection of 750 IU human choriou gonadotropiu (hCG) 80 h after eCG administration. Ultrasound (US) investigation was done three times (4-10 h before, and 40-44 and 72-74 h after eCG administration) for the observation of follicular development. Oocyte and follicular fluid (FF) were collected endoscopically 34 h after hCG injection. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were evaluated, their morphology determined, and thereafter fixed and stained for chromatin evaluation. Oocytes were classified as meiosis-resumed (germinal vesicle breakdown, diakinesis, metaphase I to anaphase I) or matured (telophase I and metaphase II). FF concentrations of oestradiol and progesterone were measured by validated radioimmunoassays. In L gilts, differences were observed between HI and LO in the number of preovulatory follicles (32.3 +/- 10.5 vs 17.1 +/- 12.3, p < 0.05), but not in M (25.3 +/- 2.9 vs 28.8 +/- 7.3, p > 0.05). Initial follicular growth was not affected by feeding levels; however, preovulatory follicle size was larger in M (7.1 +/- 0.9 and 6.9 +/- 1.1 mm vs 5.7 +/- 0.7 and 5.5 +/- 0.8 mm; p < 0.05). No differences were obtained with relation to mature chromatin configuration in both breeds (L gilts: HI - 70% and LO-67% vs M gilts: HI - 67% and LO - 63%). A twofold higher oestradiol concentration was detected in FF of HI-M and LO-M (29.6 +/- 6.8 and 30.9 +/- 10.3 ng/ml respectively) compared with that of L (16.9 +/- 9.7 and 17.9 +/- 3.6 ng/ml, respectively; p < 0.05). The mean FF progesterone level was nearly fivefold higher in M (2020.4 +/- 1056 and 1512.2 +/- 1121.8 ng/ml) compared with L (386.2 +/- 113.7 and 298.8 +/- 125.9 ng/ml, p < 0.05). The results indicate an influence of the feeding of altered energy on the number of recruitable preovulatory follicles in modern Landrace but not in native Mangalica breed. Moreover, the follicular steroid hormone milieu differs between Landrace and Mangalica gilts but not depending on feeding levels. Oocyte maturation was not affected by diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Egerszegi
- Research Institute for Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Herceghalom, Hungary
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Ferguson EM, Slevin J, Hunter MG, Edwards SA, Ashworth CJ. Beneficial effects of a high fibre diet on oocyte maturity and embryo survival in gilts. Reproduction 2007; 133:433-9. [PMID: 17307911 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The present study examined the effects of feeding gilts a high fibre diet from the third post-pubertal oestrus until either day 19 of the same cycle or insemination at the following oestrus on oocyte maturity, embryo survival and associated changes in reproductive hormone concentrations. Gilts fed with the high fibre diet had lower circulating oestradiol concentrations on days 17, 18 and 19 of the cycle and increased LH pulse frequency on day 18. More oocytes recovered on day 19 from gilts receiving the high fibre diet were at metaphase II after 46-h culture in medium containing 10% of their own follicular fluid, despite fewer large (>7 mm) follicles in these gilts when compared with control animals. There was no effect of diet on ovulation rate, corpora lutea size or progesterone concentrations on days 10–12 after insemination, but embryo survival on days 27–29 after insemination was higher in gilts that received the high fibre diet. This study demonstrates that a high fibre diet that increases embryo survival also improves oocyte maturity and provides information on endocrine correlates that may shed light on underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Ferguson
- Sustainable Livestock Systems Group, SAC, Roslin BioCentre, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9PS, UK
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Ferguson EM, Slevin J, Edwards SA, Hunter MG, Ashworth CJ. Effect of alterations in the quantity and composition of the pre-mating diet on embryo survival and foetal growth in the pig. Anim Reprod Sci 2006; 96:89-103. [PMID: 16426776 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2005.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2005] [Revised: 10/18/2005] [Accepted: 11/23/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This trial examined the effects of feeding six diets, which varied in either amount or composition, during the oestrous cycle prior to insemination on embryo survival and foetal development on day 27+/-2 of pregnancy in gilts. Ten or 11 gilts per group received either a maintenance (M) diet, 1.8 x M, 2.6 x M or nutritionally balanced diets in which the content of fibre, protein or starch was increased. Of the six diets tested, only the high fibre diet significantly increased embryo survival when compared to its 1.8 x M isoenergetic control (88.20+/-1.96% versus 81.25+/-2.67%; P<0.05). More litters from gilts fed the 1.8 x M and the starch diets had foetuses defined as intra-uterine growth retarded (IUGR; 50% and 62.5 of litters, respectively), compared to the other four groups in which 0-12.5% of litters contained IUGR foetuses (P<0.05). There was no effect of dietary treatment on foetal or placental size or on the within-litter variability in foetal and placental size. Plasma concentrations of oestradiol and progesterone on days 4-8 of the oestrous cycle and on day 27+/-2 of pregnancy were unaffected by treatment. Feed intake was positively related to mean plasma IGF-1 concentrations on days 4-8 of the cycle (P<0.01) and to mean leptin concentrations on days 4 and 5 (P<0.001). Leptin concentrations were unaffected by alterations in the composition of the diet, whereas IGF-1 concentrations were higher in gilts fed the starch diet compared to the M control (159+/-9.52 versus 127+/-7.65 ng/ml; P<0.05). These data demonstrate that alteration to the composition of the feed consumed during the cycle before insemination can affect both embryo survival and the distribution of foetal size within the litter. The underlying mechanism(s) remain to be determined, but probably involve dietary-induced changes in concentrations of reproductive hormones and/or intermediary metabolites that in turn affect ovarian follicular and oocyte development.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Ferguson
- Sustainable Livestock Systems Group, Scottish Agricultural College (SAC), Craibstone Estate, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9YA, UK
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Hunter MG, Brankin V, Quinn RL, Ferguson EM, Edwards SA, Ashworth CJ. Oocyte-somatic cell-endocrine interactions in pigs. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2005; 29:371-84. [PMID: 15950429 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2005.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte-somatic cell communication is bi-directional and essential for both oocyte and follicular granulosa and theca cell function and development. We have shown that the oocyte secretes factors that stimulate porcine granulosa cell proliferation in serum-free culture, and suppress progesterone production, thereby preventing premature luteinisation. Possible candidates for mediating some of these effects are the bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) that belong to the transforming growth factor beta family. They are emerging as a family of proteins critical for fertility and ovulation rate in several mammals, and they are expressed in various cell types in the ovary. We have evidence for a functional BMP system in the porcine ovary and BMP receptors are present in the egg nests in the fetal ovary and in the granulosa cells, oocytes and occasional theca cells throughout subsequent development. In addition to paracrine interactions in the ovary, the porcine oocyte and its developmental potential can also be influenced by nutritional manipulation in vivo. We have demonstrated that feeding a high plane of nutrition to gilts for 19 days prior to ovulation increased oocyte quality compared to control animals fed a maintenance diet, as determined by oocyte maturation in vitro. This was associated with a number of changes in circulating reproductive and metabolic hormones and also in the follicular fluid in which the oocyte is nurtured. Further studies showed a similar increase in prenatal survival on Day 30 of gestation, demonstrating a direct link between oocyte quality/maturation and embryo survival. Collectively, these studies emphasise the importance of the interactions that occur between the oocyte and somatic cells and also with endocrine hormones for ovarian development, and ultimately for the production of oocytes with optimal developmental potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morag G Hunter
- Division of Animal Physiology, School of Biosciences, The University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK.
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Hunter MG, Robinson RS, Mann GE, Webb R. Endocrine and paracrine control of follicular development and ovulation rate in farm species. Anim Reprod Sci 2004; 82-83:461-77. [PMID: 15271473 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2004.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Productivity in farm species is controlled by many factors, including ovulation rate. In cattle, single ovulations occur most frequently and in sheep (and goats) the number of ova released can range from one to many depending upon the breed, whilst the pig is polyovular. The processes of recruitment and selection determine the number of ovulatory follicles in all these species with FSH and subsequently LH playing major roles. GnRH-agonist models in which endogenous gonadotrophin secretion is suppressed and exogenous LH and/or FSH are administered at specific concentrations in defined patterns, are useful in all three species for elucidating the precise roles of specific hormones in stimulating follicular development. Differences in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian feedback response lead to the differences in the number of ovulatory follicles, as does the pool of antral follicles from which the ovulatory ones are selected. Precocious development of follicles is also associated with more ovulations, as is the case with the Booroola due to the single gene acting through bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). It is well established that ovulation rate can also be influenced by exogenous hormone administration and by environmental factors such as nutrition. It has become apparent that these nuritional effects are mediated by a direct action at the level of the ovary, involving insulin, insulin-like growth factors (IGF) I and II and their binding proteins among other factors. These factors can also affect the quality of the oocyte and consequently embryo development and survival. Recently, the regulation of follicular angiogenesis has been shown to be important for the development of ovulatory follicles, particularly vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) which is produced primarily by the granulosa cells within the ovary and can be stimulated by gonadotrophins. Administration of VEGF has been shown to stimulate pre-antral follicular growth and increase the number of pre-ovulatory follicles. In summary both extra- and intra-ovarian factors are involved in the control of ovulation rate. Manipulation of the angiogenic process may also provide new opportunities for regulating the quality and number of follicles that ovulate.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Hunter
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, Leics LE12 5RD, UK.
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Novak S, Almeida FRCL, Cosgrove JR, Dixon WT, Foxcroft GR. Effect of pre- and postmating nutritional manipulation on plasma progesterone, blastocyst development, and the oviductal environment during early pregnancy in gilts. J Anim Sci 2003; 81:772-83. [PMID: 12661658 DOI: 10.2527/2003.813772x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Two experiments were conducted to determine mechanisms mediating effects of nutritional manipulation before and after mating on embryonic survival in pigs. Experiment 1 studied the mechanisms by which continued high feeding levels after mating result in differences in plasma progesterone during early pregnancy. Gilts fed 2.0 times maintenance energy requirements either remained on this high level or feed was reduced to 1.5 times maintenance immediately after mating. Ovarian, oviductal, and jugular vein progesterone concentrations were determined 72 h after onset of estrus, and samples taken every 4 h were used to determine LH and progesterone during the periestrous period. Treatment did not affect peripheral progesterone concentrations, the timing or rate of rise of progesterone, or progesterone in ovarian, oviductal, or jugular veins at the time of surgery. Time after the LH peak was highly correlated (P = 0.0001) with jugular progesterone concentrations, but not with those in oviductal and ovarian veins, suggesting that responses in the reproductive tract mediated by peripheral progesterone concentrations will be temporally different to effects within tissues supplied by the ovarian and oviductal vasculature. Experiment 2 studied mechanisms mediating nutritional manipulation in the preovulatory period on postovulatory reproductive function, using feed restriction during the first (RH) or second (HR) week of the estrous cycle. Surgeries were performed 12 to 20 h after ovulation, and fertilized oocytes were cultured for 144 h in vitro. Ovulation rate was not affected by previous nutritional regimen. Fertilization rate was higher (P = 0.056) in RH vs HR gilts, but development of cultured oocytes was not affected by treatment. There were no treatment differences in peripheral or oviductal plasma progesterone, estradiol, or insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) at surgery, or in porcine oviductal secretory protein abundance and IGF-I concentrations in oviduct flushings, but treatment affected total protein concentration (P = 0.002). These results indicate that either previous nutritional treatment does not affect the early developmental competence of fertilized oocytes in vitro or differences in developmental competence of oocytes are not expressed up to the early blastocyst stage. However, the lack of an effect of previous nutrition on steroids in the local oviductal circulation may also be related to the lack of effects on oviductal function and embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Novak
- Department of Agricultural, Food, and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2P5, Canada.
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Sangsritavong S, Combs DK, Sartori R, Armentano LE, Wiltbank MC. High feed intake increases liver blood flow and metabolism of progesterone and estradiol-17beta in dairy cattle. J Dairy Sci 2002; 85:2831-42. [PMID: 12487450 DOI: 10.3168/jds.s0022-0302(02)74370-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 396] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Increased liver blood flow (LBF) resulting from elevated feed intake in lactating dairy cows may increase steroid metabolism. Continuous infusion of bromosulphthalein (BSP; specifically metabolized in liver) was used to measure LBF. Similarly, progesterone (P4) and estradiol-17beta (E2) were administered by continuous infusion. Circulating concentrations at steady state were used to calculate the metabolic clearance rate (MCR) of BSP, P4, and E2. Experiment 1: Variation in LBF was determined in thee nonlactating and four lactating cows over 3 d at 3 to 5 h after feeding. Coefficients of variation ranged from 14 to 31% among cows within day and from 4 to 8% within cows across days. Experiment 2: Six nonlactating cows were used in a 3 x 3 Latin-square design with three feed regimens: no feed, 0.5 maintenance diet (M), and 1.5 M. Experiment 3: Eight lactating cows were used in a 4 x 4 Latin-square design with four feed regimens: no feed, 0.5 M, 1.5 M, and 2.2 M. In experiments 2 and 3, LBF and MCR of P4 increased immediately after feed consumption and increases persisted longer at higher intakes. The LBF reached a maximum at 2 h after feeding and MCR of P4 reached maximum at 3 h after feeding with a positive correlation (r = 0.92) between LBF and MCR for P4. Experiment 4: A crossover design was used to determine MCR of E2 in unfed or full-fed lactating dairy cows. The MCR of E2 increased immediately after feeding and stayed elevated throughout the 4.5-h infusion period. Thus, LBF and steroid metabolism were acutely elevated by feed consumption in lactating and nonlactating cows. Higher rates of LBF and steroid metabolism in lactating than in nonlactating cows may indicate chronic effects of higher feed intakes as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sangsritavong
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53706, USA
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