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Scanes CG. Discontinuities in understanding follicular development, the ovulatory cycle and the oviposition cycles in the hen: Advances, opportunities, slow downs and complete stops. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1023528. [PMID: 36262257 PMCID: PMC9573971 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1023528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been considerable progress in understanding follicular development, the ovulatory cycle and the oviposition cycles in the hen. In particular, there have been tremendous advances in understanding follicular development and recruitment of follicles to the hierarchy of large yellow follicles. There is a need to continue to follow the earlier literature while employing present techniques. Early work allowed an understanding of the ovulation and oviposition cycles. Models for ovulation were developed. However, while these have no passed the test of time, there is no present model that fully accounts to the cycles. Earlier work employed ahemoral light cycles to examine ovulation and oviposition cycles. Recent work has demonstrated that clock genes are expressed in the ovary. The control of incubation by prolactin has been largely elucidated in turkeys. There is evidence that other endocrine glands influence female reproduction in birds including the adrenal cortex, thyroid and pineal. However, there is much that remains to be fully understood.
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2
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Mitochondrial dysfunction in follicles is associated with broodiness in Zhedong white goose. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 243:107032. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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3
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Custer CM. Linking field and laboratory studies: Reproductive effects of perfluorinated substances on avian populations. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2021; 17:690-696. [PMID: 33475242 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Although both laboratory and field studies are needed to effectively assess effects and risk of contaminants to free-living organisms, the limitations of each must be understood. The objectives of this paper are to examine information on field studies of reproductive effects of perfluorinated substances (PFASs) on bird populations, discuss the differences among field studies, and then place those results in context with laboratory studies. Hypotheses to explain the divergences between field studies and between laboratory and field studies will be discussed. Those differences include mixture issues, misattribution of the mechanism or the specific PFAS causing impairments, as well as other possible reasons. Finally, suggestions to better link laboratory and field studies will be presented. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:690-696. Published 2021. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Custer
- United States Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, La Crosse, Wisconsin
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Burns-Cusato M, Rieskamp J, Nagy M, Rana A, Hawkins W, Panting S. A role for endogenous opiates in incubation behavior in ring neck doves (Streptopelia risoria). Behav Brain Res 2020; 399:113052. [PMID: 33279638 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.113052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Incubation of eggs is a critical component of parental care in avian species. However, we do not fully understand the neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying this vital behavior. While prolactin is clearly involved, it alone cannot explain the fine-tuning of incubation behavior. The present experiments explored the possibility that incubation is reinforced through a hedonic system in which contact with eggs elicited an opiate-mediated reinforcing state. Blockade of opiate receptors with naloxone reduced time ring neck doves (Streptopelia risoria) spent on the nest, possibly by uncoupling the opiate-receptor mediated hedonic experience of contact with eggs from nest-sitting behavior. Likewise, activation of opiate receptors with morphine also reduced time spent on the nest, possibly by activating an opiate-receptor mediated hedonic experience, hence rendering the eliciting behavior (contact with eggs) unnecessary. Taken together, the results suggest that the opiate system may play a previously unrecognized role in facilitating incubation through reinforcement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Madeleine Nagy
- Centre College, Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, USA
| | - Arpit Rana
- Centre College, Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, USA
| | | | - Sierra Panting
- Centre College, Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Sharp
- Roslin Institute (Edinburgh), Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9PS, UK
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6
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Takeda M, Ohkubo T. Identification of hypothalamic genes in associating with food intake during incubation behavior in domestic chicken. Anim Sci J 2019; 90:1293-1302. [PMID: 31310043 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The molecular mechanism underlying in the onset and maintenance of incubation behavior are not fully understood, and it is still unknown the reason why White Leghorn, a layer strain, hens never display incubation behavior. Therefore, to explore specific hypothalamic genes regulating incubation behavior, cap analysis of gene expression (CAGE) were applied to comparison between incubating Silkie and laying White Leghorn hens. In addition, mRNA expression of some differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and melanocortinergic appetite genes including agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) was also analyzed on Silkie hens under natural anorexia and starvation. The CAGE identified 217 hypothalamic DEGs in incubating Silkie hens, and that of two, transthyretin (TTR) and prolactin-releasing peptide (PrRP), suggested as appetite gene, were markedly up- and down-regulated in incubating hens, respectively. In addition, AgRP and POMC expression also increased in incubating bird. mRNA expression of TTR, PrRP, and appetite genes were not differed significantly by starvation, although TTR mRNA expression was relatively high in fasting hens. Consequently, transcriptome by CAGE identified a number of hypothalamic genes differentially expressed by incubation behavior in Silkie hens. Of these, it is suggested that TTR and PrRP may, at least in part, be related to adaptation to natural anorexia in incubating Silkie chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misa Takeda
- College of Agriculture, Ibaraki University, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ohkubo
- College of Agriculture, Ibaraki University, Ibaraki, Japan
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7
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Bai DP, Hu YQ, Li YB, Huang ZB, Li A. Polymorphisms of the prolactin gene and their association with egg production traits in two Chinese domestic ducks. Br Poult Sci 2019; 60:125-129. [PMID: 30648884 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2019.1567909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
1. Prolactin (PRL) as a polypeptide hormone which plays a crucial role in egg production traits. 2. Polymorphisms of the PRL gene were analysed with DNA sequencing and polymerase chain reaction-single-strand conformation polymorphism methods in two Chinese domestic laying duck breeds (Jinding, n = 400, Youxian, n = 400, respectively). 3. The results showed that one polymorphism was detected (A-412G) in intron 1 of the PRL gene, with three genotypes: AA, AG and GG. Association analysis showed that the ducks with the GG genotype had significantly greater egg production and egg weight than those with AG and AA genotype (p < 0.05). Hence, the 412A > G polymorphism of the PRL gene in intron 1 is a potentially valuable genetic marker for laying duck breeding programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D-P Bai
- a College of Animal Sciences , Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University , Fuzhou , China.,b Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding , Wuhan , China
| | - Y-Q Hu
- a College of Animal Sciences , Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University , Fuzhou , China
| | - Y-B Li
- a College of Animal Sciences , Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University , Fuzhou , China
| | - Z-B Huang
- c Fujian Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health , Fuzhou , China
| | - A Li
- a College of Animal Sciences , Fujian Agricultural and Forestry University , Fuzhou , China
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8
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Yin L, Ran J, Lian T, Yang C, Li S, Liu Y. EFFECTS OF VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENTATION ON SERUM HORMONES AND GENE EXPRESSION OF ANTI-SEASON BREEDING XINGGUO GREY GEESE (ANSER CYGNOIDES). BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9061-2018-0892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L Yin
- Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - J Ran
- Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - T Lian
- Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - C Yang
- Sichuan Animal Science Academy, China
| | - S Li
- Jiangxi Academy of Agricultural Science, China
| | - Y Liu
- Sichuan Agricultural University, China
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Abstract
In the majority of vertebrates, survival of offspring to sexual maturation is important for increasing population size, and parental investment in the young is important for reproductive success. Consequently, parental care is critical for the survival of offspring in many species, and many vertebrates have adapted this behavior to their social and ecological environments. Parental care is defined as any behavior that is performed in association with one's offspring (Rosenblatt, Mayer, Siegel. Maternal behavior among nonprimate mammals. In: Adler, Pfaff, Goy, editors. Handbook of behavioral neurobiology. New York: Plenum; 1985. p. 229-98) and is well characterized in mammals and birds. In birds (class Aves), this is due to the high level of diversity across species. Parental behavior in birds protects the young from intruders, and generally involves nest building, incubation, and broody behavior which protect their young from an intruder, and the offspring are reared to independence. Broodiness is complexly regulated by the central nervous system and is associated with multiple hormones and neurotransmitters produced by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. The mechanism of this behavior has been extensively characterized in domestic chicken (Gallus domesticus), turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), and pigeons and doves (family Columbidae). This chapter summarizes broodiness in birds from a physiology, genetics, and molecular biology perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Ohkubo
- College of Agriculture, Ibaraki University, Ibaraki, Japan.
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10
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Transcriptome analysis of follicles reveals the importance of autophagy and hormones in regulating broodiness of Zhedong white goose. Sci Rep 2016; 6:36877. [PMID: 27833138 PMCID: PMC5105085 DOI: 10.1038/srep36877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Broodiness, a maternal behavior and instinct for natural breeding in poultry, inhibits egg production and affects the poultry industry. Phenotypic and physiological factors influencing broodiness in poultry have been extensively studied, but the molecular regulation mechanism of broodiness remains unclear. Effective research strategies focusing on broodiness are hindered by limited understanding of goose developmental biology. Here we established the transcriptomes of goose follicles at egg-laying and broody stages by Illumina HiSeq platform and compared the sequenced transcriptomes of three types of follicles (small white, large white and small yellow). It was found that there were 92 up-regulated and 84 down-regulated transcription factors and 101 up-regulated and 51 down-regulated hormone-related genes. Many of these genes code for proteins involved in hormone response, follicular development, autophagy, and oxidation. Moreover, the contents of progesterone and estradiol in follicles were altered, and the autophagy levels of follicles were enhanced during the broody stage. These results suggest that hormone- and autophagy-signaling pathways are critical for controlling broodiness in the goose. We demonstrated that transcriptome analysis of egg-laying and broody Zhedong white goose follicles provided novel insights into broodiness in birds.
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Transcriptome sequencing reveals genetic mechanisms underlying the transition between the laying and brooding phases and gene expression changes associated with divergent reproductive phenotypes in chickens. Mol Biol Rep 2016; 43:977-89. [PMID: 27389590 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-016-4033-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Transition from laying to incubation behavior in chicken is an interesting topic in reproductive biology. The decline of incubation behavior in chicken population has led to considerable phenotypic differences in reproductive traits between breeds. However, the exact genetic mechanism of the reproductive phase transition still largely unknown and little is known about the gene expression changes that contribute to the phenotypic differences. We performed mRNA sequencing to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the transition from laying to brooding and to detect difference in gene regulation underlying the phenotypic diversification using two chicken breeds. The majority of gene expression changes during phase transition were steroidogenesis and hormone-releasing genes. Brooding chickens shared a conservative pattern of greatly inhibited steroidogenic enzyme genes in the pituitary gland, therefore, low levels of steroidogenic enzymes might result in reproductive defects such as ovary regression and brooding onset. The conserved network responsible for brooding behavior was maintained by steroid biosynthesis and hormonal interactions. Interestingly, three transcription factors, SREBF2, NR5A1 and PGR, act as central signal modulators of steroid biosynthesis and hormonal interactions during the transition from laying to brooding modes at the molecular level. Furthermore, Genes correlated with protein synthesis and accumulation showed expression variation between breeds, which might result in different concentrations of and sensitivities to reproduction-related hormones. This study provided a new insight in neuroendocrine system at the molecular level, and helps to understand the genetic and hormonal responses that ultimately translate into behavior in chicken.
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12
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Yu J, Lou Y, He K, Yang S, Yu W, Han L, Zhao A. Goose broodiness is involved in granulosa cell autophagy and homeostatic imbalance of follicular hormones. Poult Sci 2016; 95:1156-64. [PMID: 26908882 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pew006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Broodiness is observed in most domestic fowls and influences egg production. The goose is one of the most important waterfowls, having strong broody behavior. However, whether autophagy and follicular internal environment play a role in the broodiness behavior of goose is unknown. In this report, we analyzed the follicular internal environment and granulosa cell autophagy of goose follicles. The results show that the contents of hormones, including prolactin (PRL), progesterone (P4), and estradiol (E2), increased in broody goose follicles. Most importantly, the level of granulosa cell autophagy in broody goose follicles was elevated, detected by electron microscopy and western blotting. Also, the expressions of positive regulators of autophagy, including miR-7, miR-29, miR-100, miR-181, PRLR, LC3, p53,Beclin1, Atg9, and Atg12, were up-regulated and the expressions of negative regulators of autophagy, including miR-34b and miR-34c, were down-regulated in broody goose follicles. Our results suggest that goose broodiness is involved in increased granulosa cell autophagy and homeostasis imbalance of internal environment in the follicles. This work contributes to our knowledge of goose broodiness and may influence egg production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, 88 Huanbei Road, Lin'an 311300, China
| | - Yaping Lou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, 88 Huanbei Road, Lin'an 311300, China
| | - Ke He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, 88 Huanbei Road, Lin'an 311300, China
| | - Songbai Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, 88 Huanbei Road, Lin'an 311300, China
| | - Wensai Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, 88 Huanbei Road, Lin'an 311300, China
| | - Lu Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, 88 Huanbei Road, Lin'an 311300, China
| | - Ayong Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, 88 Huanbei Road, Lin'an 311300, China
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13
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Christensen D, Vleck CM. Effects of age and reproductive experience on the distribution of prolactin and growth hormone secreting cells in the anterior pituitary of a passerine. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 222:54-61. [PMID: 26119185 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Plasma prolactin (PRL) is released from lactotrophs in the anterior pituitary. As plasma PRL levels rise during incubation in domestic fowl, the number of lactotrophs (PRL-immunoreactive, PRL-IR cells) increases while the number of growth hormone secreting cells, somatotrophs (GH-IR cells), declines. We measured plasma PRL levels using radioimmunoassay (RIA) and examined the distribution of lactotrophs and somatotrophs in the anterior pituitary of breeding and nonbreeding zebra finches of known ages with and without prior breeding experience using fluorescent immunohistochemistry (IHC). Plasma PRL levels were higher in breeding than in nonbreeding birds, regardless of age, sex, or previous breeding history. PRL-IR cells were localized primarily, but not exclusively, to the cephalic aspect of the anterior pituitary (AP) and along the ventral margin. Birds with prior reproductive experience had more PRL-IR cells than birds with no prior reproductive experience and breeders had slightly higher PRL-IR cell counts than did nonbreeders, but there was no correlation between the number of PRL-IR cells and plasma PRL levels. GH-IR cells were concentrated in the caudal aspect of the AP with some cells in the cephalic lobe, but numbers did not differ between any of the groups studied. An increase in PRL-IR cells corresponded with an increase in GH-IR cells. An increase in lactotroph number with reproductive experience in zebra finches may facilitate future reproductive events by allowing for more robust PRL secretion and increased reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Christensen
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
| | - Carol M Vleck
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
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Sartsoongnoen N, Prakobsaeng N, Kosonsiriluk S, Chaiyachet OA, Chokchaloemwong D, Halawani ME, Chaiseha Y. Distribution and variation in gonadotropin releasing hormone-I (GnRH-I) immunoreactive neurons in the brain of the native Thai chicken during the reproductive cycle. Acta Histochem 2012; 114:409-20. [PMID: 21872303 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2011.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2011] [Revised: 08/01/2011] [Accepted: 08/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin releasing hormone-I (GnRH-I) is known to regulate the avian reproductive system. We investigated the roles of GnRH-I in the regulation of the reproductive system of the native Thai chicken. The distribution of GnRH-I neurons and changes in GnRH-I-immunoreactive (-ir) neurons throughout the reproductive stages and between incubating and nest-deprived hens were analyzed utilizing immunohistochemical techniques. The results revealed that GnRH-I-ir neurons were distributed in a discrete region lying close to the third ventricle from the level of preoptic area through the anterior hypothalamus, with the greatest abundance found within the nucleus commissurae pallii (nCPa). The number of GnRH-I-ir neurons in the nCPa was highest in laying hens when compared with that in the other reproductive stages. Nest deprivation caused an increase in the number of GnRH-I-ir neurons in the nCPa of nest-deprived hens when compared with incubating hens. These results indicate that GnRH-I expression is correlated with the reproductive state in the native Thai chicken and may be, in part, regulated by it. This study also confirms a pivotal role of GnRH-I in controlling avian reproduction of this non-seasonal breeding, equatorial species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natagarn Sartsoongnoen
- Program of Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, Thailand
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Shen X, Zeng H, Xie L, He J, Li J, Xie X, Luo C, Xu H, Zhou M, Nie Q, Zhang X. The GTPase activating Rap/RanGAP domain-like 1 gene is associated with chicken reproductive traits. PLoS One 2012; 7:e33851. [PMID: 22496769 PMCID: PMC3322132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Accepted: 02/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Abundant evidence indicates that chicken reproduction is strictly regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis, and the genes included in the HPG axis have been studied extensively. However, the question remains as to whether any other genes outside of the HPG system are involved in regulating chicken reproduction. The present study was aimed to identify, on a genome-wide level, novel genes associated with chicken reproductive traits. Methodology/Principal Finding Suppressive subtractive hybridization (SSH), genome-wide association study (GWAS), and gene-centric GWAS were used to identify novel genes underlying chicken reproduction. Single marker-trait association analysis with a large population and allelic frequency spectrum analysis were used to confirm the effects of candidate genes. Using two full-sib Ningdu Sanhuang (NDH) chickens, GARNL1 was identified as a candidate gene involved in chicken broodiness by SSH analysis. Its expression levels in the hypothalamus and pituitary were significantly higher in brooding chickens than in non-brooding chickens. GWAS analysis with a NDH two tail sample showed that 2802 SNPs were significantly associated with egg number at 300 d of age (EN300). Among the 2802 SNPs, 2 SNPs composed a block overlapping the GARNL1 gene. The gene-centric GWAS analysis with another two tail sample of NDH showed that GARNL1 was strongly associated with EN300 and age at first egg (AFE). Single marker-trait association analysis in 1301 female NDH chickens confirmed that variation in this gene was related to EN300 and AFE. The allelic frequency spectrum of the SNP rs15700989 among 5 different populations supported the above associations. Western blotting, RT-PCR, and qPCR were used to analyze alternative splicing of the GARNL1 gene. RT-PCR detected 5 transcripts and revealed that the transcript, which has a 141 bp insertion, was expressed in a tissue-specific manner. Conclusions/Significance Our findings demonstrate that the GARNL1 gene contributes to chicken reproductive traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Shen
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua Zeng
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang Xie
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary, Hainan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Jun He
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiujuan Xie
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chenglong Luo
- Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haiping Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Biotechnology Institute, Jiang Xi Education College, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qinghua Nie
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiquan Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
- * E-mail:
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Avital-Cohen N, Heiblum R, Argov N, Rosenstrauch A, Chaiseha Y, Mobarkey N, Rozenboim I. The effect of active immunization against vasoactive intestinal peptide and inhibin on reproductive performance of young White Leghorn roosters. Poult Sci 2011; 90:2321-31. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2011-01438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
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17
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Prakobsaeng N, Sartsoongnoen N, Kosonsiriluk S, Chaiyachet OA, Chokchaloemwong D, Rozenboim I, El Halawani M, Porter TE, Chaiseha Y. Changes in vasoactive intestinal peptide and tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in the brain of nest-deprived native Thai hen. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2011; 171:189-96. [PMID: 21266179 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2011.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2010] [Revised: 01/13/2011] [Accepted: 01/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Hyperprolactinemia is associated with incubation behavior and ovarian regression in birds. To investigate the association of prolactin (PRL), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and dopamine (DA) with the neuroendocrine regulation of incubation behavior, changes in the number of visible VIP-immunoreactive (VIP-ir) neurons in the nucleus inferioris hypothalami (IH) and nucleus infundibuli hypothalami (IN) and tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive (TH-ir) neurons in the nucleus intramedialis (nI) and nucleus mamillaris lateralis (ML) of incubating native Thai hens were compared with those of nest-deprived hens. TH was used as a marker for dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons. Blood samples were collected to determine PRL levels. The localization and the number of visible VIP-ir and TH-ir neurons were determined by immunohistochemistry. Disruption of incubation behavior was accompanied by a precipitous decline in plasma PRL levels. The number of visible VIP-ir neurons in the IH-IN and TH-ir neurons in the nI and ML were high during incubation and decreased when hens were deprived of their nests. This study indicated an association between VIP neurons in the IH-IN and DA neurons in the nI and ML with the degree of hyperprolactinemia, suggesting that the expression of incubation behavior in birds might be, in part, regulated by the DAergic input from the nI and ML to VIP neurons in the IH-IN and subsequent PRL release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nattiya Prakobsaeng
- School of Biology, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Thailand
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18
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Swallows as a Sentinel Species for Contaminant Exposure and Effect Studies. EMERGING TOPICS IN ECOTOXICOLOGY 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-89432-4_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Riou S, Chastel O, Lacroix A, Hamer KC. Stress and parental care: Prolactin responses to acute stress throughout the breeding cycle in a long-lived bird. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2010; 168:8-13. [PMID: 20331990 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2010.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2010] [Revised: 03/18/2010] [Accepted: 03/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
While the role of corticosterone in mediating the response of birds to acute stress is well established, it has recently been proposed that a decrease in prolactin levels following stress may complement corticosterone in redirecting resources away from breeding activities and towards behaviors promoting immediate survival. Here, for the first time, we detail changes in the prolactin stress response of birds throughout the breeding cycle. We then discuss the modulation of the corticosterone and prolactin stress responses over successive stages of breeding, differing in reproductive value and parental effort. In a long-lived Procellariiform seabird, the Manx shearwater Puffinus puffinus, we found that prolactin levels decreased in response to acute stress during incubation and mid chick-rearing but increased in response to stress during late chick-rearing and in non parenting birds, a pattern similar to that previously described for mammals. The high corticosterone stress response in pre-breeders was consistent with predictions based on reproductive value, but a similar response during late chick-rearing was not. This probably reflected foraging effort and a heightened importance of the parents' own nutritional status at this stage of the season, in advance of post-breeding migration. We also found that baseline prolactin levels were maintained at high levels during chick-rearing and were only slightly lower during late chick-rearing and in failed breeders and non-breeders. These data suggest that prolactin may play a role in nestling care long beyond the brooding phase, that this is not due to birds spending long periods away from the colony and that prolactin secretion may be necessary for nest-guarding behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Riou
- Institute of Integrative and Comparative Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
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Leboucher G, Richard-Yris MA, Chadwick A, Guéméné D. Influence of Nest Deprivation on Behaviour, Hormonal Concentrations and on the Ability to Resume Incubation in Domestic Hens (Gallus domesticus). Ethology 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.1996.tb01157.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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21
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Lea RW, Vowles DM. The control of prolactin secretion and nest defence in the ring dove (Streptopelia risoria). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/11250008509440534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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22
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Silverin B, Goldsmith AR. Reproductive endocrinology of free living Pied flycatchers (Ficedula hypoleuca): prolactin and FSH secretion in relation to incubation and clutch size. J Zool (1987) 2009. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.1983.tb06112.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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23
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Kosonsiriluk S, Sartsoongnoen N, Chaiyachet OA, Prakobsaeng N, Songserm T, Rozenboim I, El Halawani M, Chaiseha Y. Vasoactive intestinal peptide and its role in continuous and seasonal reproduction in birds. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2008; 159:88-97. [PMID: 18761341 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2008.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2008] [Revised: 06/30/2008] [Accepted: 07/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Native Thai chicken, an equatorial species breeds throughout the year, whereas turkeys are seasonal temperate zone breeder whose reproductive cycle is terminated by the onset of photorefractoriness. This study investigated VIPergic activity throughout a reproductive cycle in both species, hypothesizing that the differential expression of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) would provide an insight into the differing reproductive strategies of the two species. Distribution of VIP neurons in the native Thai chicken and a comparison of VIPergic activity in the nucleus inferioris hypothalami (IH) and nucleus infundibuli hypothalami (IN) were investigated. VIP immunoreactivity was found throughout the native Thai chicken brain, predominantly located within the IH-IN. The pattern of VIP distribution in the native Thai chicken supports the findings reported in temperate zone species. Unlike the turkey, where there is a dissociation between VIPergic activity and prolactin levels during photorefractoriness, in the native Thai chicken, which do not express photorefractoriness, changes in VIP immunoreactive (VIP-ir) neurons within the IH-IN were directly correlated with prolactin throughout the reproductive cycle. VIPergic activity reached its lowest level after hatching of the chicks in the native Thai chicken, while in the turkey VIPergic activity was lowest only after exposure to a short day photoperiod and the acquisition of photosensitivity. This suggests that VIP neurons in the IH-IN may play a pivotal role in regulating the reproductive cycle and its differential expression following hatching of the young may, in part, account for the difference in reproductive mode between equatorial, continually breeding, non-photoperiodic birds and seasonally breeding, photoperiodic birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunantha Kosonsiriluk
- School of Biology, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang District, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
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Sartsoongnoen N, Kosonsiriluk S, Prakobsaeng N, Songserm T, Rozenboim I, Halawani ME, Chaiseha Y. The dopaminergic system in the brain of the native Thai chicken, Gallus domesticus: localization and differential expression across the reproductive cycle. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2008; 159:107-15. [PMID: 18765240 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2008.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2008] [Revised: 08/01/2008] [Accepted: 08/03/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) has a pivotal role in avian prolactin (PRL) secretion, acting centrally through D(1) DA receptors to stimulate PRL secretion by operating through vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). DA also inhibits PRL secretion by activating D(2) DA receptors at the pituitary level. This study was designed to investigate the distribution of DA neurons in the native Thai chicken, utilizing tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) as a marker for dopaminergic neurons. The differential expression of hypothalamic TH immunoreactive (TH-ir) neurons was also compared across the reproductive cycle. The results revealed that TH-ir neurons and fibers were found throughout the brain of the laying hen and were predominantly located within the diencephalon and mesencephalon. The observed distribution pattern of TH immunoreactivity was consistent with that reported previously in several avian species. However, changes in the number of TH-ir neurons in the nucleus intramedialis (nI) were observed across the reproductive cycle and correlated directly with variations in PRL levels. The population of TH-ir neurons in the nI increased significantly during the egg incubation period, where circulating PRL levels were the greatest. This study indicates, for the first time, that an association exists between DA neurons and the regulation of the reproductive system in the native Thai chicken. There is a paucity of information about the reproductive neuroendocrine regulation of tropical non-seasonally breeding avian species and it is suggested that the differential expression of DA neurons in the nI might play a role in the control of VIP secretion and subsequent PRL release in such birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natagarn Sartsoongnoen
- School of Biology, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang District, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
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25
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Christensen D, Vleck CM. Prolactin release and response to vasoactive intestinal peptide in an opportunistic breeder, the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2008; 157:91-8. [PMID: 18555065 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2008.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2007] [Revised: 04/13/2008] [Accepted: 04/15/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Zebra finches in arid regions of Australia are opportunistic breeders that time their breeding cycles to coincide with nonseasonal rainfall. Hormonal profiles associated with reproductive behaviors may differ from those observed in seasonal breeders because these birds need to be reproductively competent on short notice. This study measured plasma prolactin (PRL) levels in nonbreeding and breeding zebra finches and in birds with and without prior reproductive experience. We also investigated the change in plasma PRL following injection with vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), the avian PRL-releasing hormone. PRL was lowest in non-paired birds, increased after pair bonds had formed, and was highest in incubating birds. No differences in PRL levels were found between males and females in these biparental care-givers. A single injection of VIP resulted in a rapid increase in plasma PRL in nonbreeding zebra finches, while PRL remained unchanged in incubating birds. When escalating doses of VIP were administered, nonbreeders responded with a maximal response in PRL release, but PRL levels in breeders remained unchanged following even the highest VIP dose. Among nonbreeders, inexperienced birds had significantly lower PRL levels than birds that had successfully reared a clutch, but both groups responded with an equally robust increase in PRL following a VIP challenge. This pattern differs from that observed in most photosensitive species in which only during a breeding cycle do birds secrete significant levels of PRL in response to exogenous VIP. Zebra finches, even when not actively breeding, must maintain competent pituitary lactotrophs that can secrete PRL at maximal rates. This is part of the suite of characters enabling these birds to respond to favorable breeding conditions at any time.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Christensen
- Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, 503 Science II, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
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26
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Massaro M, Setiawan AN, Davis LS. Effects of artificial eggs on prolactin secretion, steroid levels, brood patch development, incubation onset and clutch size in the yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2007; 151:220-9. [PMID: 17324416 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2007.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2006] [Revised: 01/22/2007] [Accepted: 01/25/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have shown that the transition from egg laying to incubation behavior in birds is associated with changes in plasma levels of prolactin and steroid hormones. However, any effect of the tactile and visual input provided by eggs at initiating these hormonal changes has not been fully investigated in wild birds. A few days before yellow-eyed penguins, Megadyptes antipodes, started egg laying, we placed an artificial egg into their nests or under cages next to their nest. We then investigated the effect of the tactile and/or visual stimulus of such an artificial egg on prolactin secretion, steroid hormone levels (total androgen, estradiol and progesterone), brood patch development, incubation onset and clutch size in these penguins. Prolactin levels rose in females in response to having an artificial egg in the nest, while they declined considerably in males. Total androgen concentrations in males were less than 7% of those of control males and the levels prior to egg placement. Brood patch width increased in both males and females. Additionally, an egg in the nest caused yellow-eyed penguin pairs to attend and sit prone on their nest more frequently. Females that initiated egg laying 1 or 2 days after placement of the artificial egg in the nest, laid a full clutch of two eggs, while most other females that were exposed to an artificial egg in their nest, laid only a single egg. In contrast, the visual stimulus of an artificial egg alone (that was placed under a cage) did not influence hormone levels, brood patch development, incubation behavior or clutch size. The stimulation of an egg in the nest influences prolactin and total androgen levels in yellow-eyed penguins, particularly in males. While brood patch development and incubation behavior were initiated and egg laying was terminated in response to an artificial egg in the nest, the exact endocrine mechanisms underlying these physiological and behavioral changes remain poorly understood. We encourage further studies on other bird species taking an experimental approach to investigate the direct influence of hormones in initiating brood patch development and incubation behavior. Moreover, such experimental studies will widen our understanding of the endocrine mechanisms that regulate clutch size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Massaro
- Department of Zoology, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Sockman KW, Sharp PJ, Schwabl H. Orchestration of avian reproductive effort: an integration of the ultimate and proximate bases for flexibility in clutch size, incubation behaviour, and yolk androgen deposition. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-185x.2006.tb00221.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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O'DWYER TW, BUTTEMER WA, PRIDDEL DM, DOWNING JA. Prolactin, body condition and the cost of good parenting: an interyear study in a long-lived seabird, Gould's Petrel (Pterodroma leucoptera). Funct Ecol 2006. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2435.2006.01168.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Jiang RS, Xu GY, Zhang XQ, Yang N. Association of polymorphisms for prolactin and prolactin receptor genes with broody traits in chickens. Poult Sci 2005; 84:839-45. [PMID: 15971519 DOI: 10.1093/ps/84.6.839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolactin (PRL) is generally accepted as crucial to the onset and maintenance of broodiness in avian species. The prolactin receptor (PRLR) plays an important role in the PRL signal transduction cascade. Two candidate genes, PRL and PRLR, were screened for polymorphisms in the chicken, and their genetic effects on broodiness were evaluated. Pedigreed hens (n = 155) of the Blue-shell chicken, a Chinese local breed, were observed for phenotypic broody traits including nesting days, broody days, repeats of broody cycles, and duration of broodiness. For polymorphism analysis, White Leghorns, Hy-Line brown egg layers, Avian broilers, and some other Chinese local breeds were included. Fifteen sets of primers were used to amplify the nucleotide sequences of the promotor of PRL and exons of PRLR. The PCR products were screened for polymorphisms using single-stranded conformational polymorphism protocol. Sequencing revealed a 24-bp insertion occurring in the promotor, -377 approximately -354, of PRL (GenBank accession no. AB011434). A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), A9026G (GenBank accession no. AY237377), in exon 3 of PRLR was also detected, which led to a nucleotide transition in the 5'-untranslated region (5'-UTR) of PRLR cDNA. Two SNP, T14771C and G14820A (GenBank accession no. AY237376), were detected in exon 6 of the PRLR. The T14771C transition led to an amino acid variation, Leu340Ser, in PRLR, whereas the G14820A transition was a synonymous mutation. An association analysis showed that the genetic polymorphisms at PRLR3 and PRLR6 were not related to broodiness (P > 0.05), whereas the individuals without the insertion sequence at PRLpro2 were associated with broody traits (P < 0.05) and the incidence (>30%) of typical broody of genotypes +/- and -/- was higher (P < 0.01) than that of +/+. In addition, all White Leghorns were +/+ for PRLpro2, whereas local breeds with very strong broodiness were nearly all -/-. Homozygous insertion of the 24-bp sequence in the PRL promoter may decrease the expression of PRL, leading to nonbroodiness. The results suggested that PRLpro2 could be a genetic marker in breeding against broodiness in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100094, PR China
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30
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Bhatt R, Youngren O, Kang S, El Halawani M. Dopamine infusion into the third ventricle increases gene expression of hypothalamic vasoactive intestinal peptide and pituitary prolactin and luteinizing hormone beta subunit in the turkey. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2003; 130:41-7. [PMID: 12535623 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-6480(02)00533-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Turkey prolactin (PRL) secretion is controlled by vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) neurons residing in the infundibular nuclear complex (INF) of the hypothalamus. The VIPergic activity is modulated by dopamine (DA) via stimulatory D(1) DA receptors. DA (10 nmol/min for 40 min) was infused into the third ventricle of laying turkey hens to study its effect on circulating PRL, hypothalamic VIP and pituitary PRL and LHbeta subunit mRNA levels. Plasma PRL was significantly elevated after 20 min of DA infusion and remained elevated 30 min after cessation of infusion. Hypothalamic VIP mRNA content was significantly greater in the INF of DA-infused birds than it was in the INF of vehicle-infused control birds. No increase in VIP mRNA due to DA infusion was noted in the preoptic area. Pituitary PRL and LHbeta subunit mRNAs were increased in DA-infused hens as compared to vehicle-infused controls but the rate of increase was more in PRL than LHbeta subunit. This study demonstrates that exogenous DA activates hypothalamic VIP gene expression and this increased expression is limited exclusively to the avian INF. The increased VIP mRNA in the INF is correlated with increased levels of circulating PRL and PRL and LHbeta mRNAs in the anterior pituitary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renu Bhatt
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, 495 An Sci/Vet Med, 1988 Fitch Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
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Gahali K, El Halawani ME, Rozenboim I. Photostimulated prolactin release in the Turkey hen: effect of ovariectomy and environmental temperature. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2001; 124:166-72. [PMID: 11703082 DOI: 10.1006/gcen.2001.7700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ambient temperature modulates prolactin (PRL) secretion in birds. It is not known whether this modulation directly affects the PRL controlling mechanism(s) or whether it indirectly influences them through the onset of sexual maturity and/or the onset of incubation behavior. These experiments were designed to investigate the effect of elevated (32 degrees ) and reduced (10 degrees ) ambient temperatures on PRL secretion. Somatically mature, ovariectomized female turkeys were used to avoid the confounding effects of reproductive stage, nesting, and egg stimuli on PRL secretion. Hens were ovariectomized 5 weeks before, on the day of, or 10 days after the inception of photostimulation. Temperature treatments included chronic exposure (5 weeks) to 32 or 10 degrees and acute exposure (i.e., temperature was reversed from 32 to 10 degrees or from 10 to 32 degrees on or after the day of photostimulation). Chronic exposure to either 32 or 10 degrees had no effect on the rise in serum PRL that followed photostimulation in both sham-operated controls and ovariectomized hens. Acute exposure to 10 or 32 degrees altered the photoperiodically stimulated rise in plasma PRL. Birds switched from 10 to 32 degrees showed a significantly greater PRL increase than birds shifted from 32 to 10 degrees. Ovariectomy enhanced the PRL response to the gonadal stimulating photoperiod. The effect was most pronounced in hens photostimulated prior to ovariectomy. These findings suggest that ambient temperature and/or ovariectomy have a modulating effect on the PRL response to long days.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Gahali
- Animal Production Department, Minia University, Minya, Egypt
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Ramesh R, Kuenzel WJ, Proudman JA. Increased proliferative activity and programmed cellular death in the turkey hen pituitary gland following interruption of incubation behavior. Biol Reprod 2001; 64:611-8. [PMID: 11159364 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod64.2.611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Incubation behavior or broodiness in turkey hens is characterized by ovarian regression, hyperprolactinemia, and persistent nesting. Nest-deprivation of incubating turkey hens results in disruption of broodiness accompanied by a precipitous decline in plasma prolactin (PRL) concentrations. The objective of the present study is to examine cellular changes in the pituitary gland associated with nest-deprivation for 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 7 days. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) was administered prior to kill to study proliferative activity. Pituitary tissue sections were immunostained using turkey growth hormone (GH) antibody, and/or chicken PRL peptide antibody, and BrdU antibody. Plasma PRL concentrations declined significantly following nest-deprivation for 1 or more days. The midsagittal pituitary area immunoreactive (ir) to GH was significantly increased while that of PRL was significantly decreased following nest-deprivation for 2 or more days. Terminal deoxy-UTP nick end labeling and PRL-immunostaining revealed an abundance of apoptotic nuclei in both cephalic and caudal lobes of the anterior pituitary gland, suggestive of programmed cellular death of lactotrophs in the pituitary gland of hens nest-deprived for 2 or more days. Mammosomatotrophs were abundant in hens nest-deprived on Day 0 but were absent in hens nest-deprived for 1 or more days. Proliferating (BrdU-ir) cells were significantly abundant in the pituitary cephalic and caudal lobes following nest-deprivation for 1 or more days but were absent on Day 0 or in laying hens. Dual-labeling studies indicated that most of the BrdU-ir nuclei in the caudal lobe were not colocalized in somatotrophs in hens nest-deprived for 1-4 days but did colocalize with GH following 7 days of nest-deprivation. In conclusion, nest-deprivation of incubating turkey hens results in 1) a precipitous decline in plasma PRL concentration, 2) programmed cell death of lactotrophs, 3) disappearance of mammosomatotrophs, 4) increased proliferative activity of pituitary cells, and 5) recruitment of somatotrophs arising primarily from mitosis of nonsomatotrophic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ramesh
- Germplasm and Gamete Physiology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA.
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Vleck CM, Ross LL, Vleck D, Bucher TL. Prolactin and parental behavior in Adélie penguins: effects of absence from nest, incubation length, and nest failure. Horm Behav 2000; 38:149-58. [PMID: 11038289 DOI: 10.1006/hbeh.2000.1589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Adélie penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae) males and females, nesting in Antarctica, alternate attendance at the nest with absences of many days to forage at sea. We investigated the importance of tactile input from egg and chicks on prolactin levels by observing nest attendance patterns and obtaining blood samples (1) during the first nest exchange of the incubation stage, (2) from birds whose incubation period was artificially increased or decreased by about 10 days, and (3) from birds whose nests had failed. Prolactin levels in females after 8 to 11 days of absence from the breeding colony did not differ from those in incubating males and did not change after females resumed incubation. Moving eggs between nests resulted in nests in which chicks hatched after about 26, 36 (normal), or 46 days. Duration of incubation did not affect prolactin levels in the parents measured during incubation, at the pip stage, hatch stage, or early brood stage. Adults first left their chicks unguarded on about the same calendar date, regardless of chick age. However, chicks from long incubation nests averaged 8 days younger when they were left unguarded than chicks from control or short-incubation nests. In females, there was no effect of nest failure on prolactin levels. In males, prolactin levels were slightly lower after nest failure than in males tending nests. Testosterone was significantly higher in males after nest failure than in males still tending nests. Prolactin is elevated in Adélie penguins as part of the program of cyclical hormonal changes that accompany the lengthy reproductive season and is relatively independent of tactile input. Sustained prolactin secretion is probably required for the maintenance of parental behavior in offshore feeding species that must be absent from the nest for many days at a time.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Vleck
- Department of Zoology and Genetics, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA.
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El-Halawani ME, Whiting SE, Silsby JL, Pitts GR, Chaiseha Y. Active immunization with vasoactive intestinal peptide in turkey hens. Poult Sci 2000; 79:349-54. [PMID: 10735201 DOI: 10.1093/ps/79.3.349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Active immunization of turkey hens against vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) has been shown to inhibit incubation behavior and to increase egg production in second-cycle hens. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of VIP immunization on first- and second-cycle turkey hens during a 27-wk production period. First- (25-wk-old) and second- (54-wk-old) cycle hens were intermixed, distributed among 16 pens, and subjected to a photoperiod of 6 h of light and 18 h of darkness for 10 wk. The first-cycle hens were divided into two groups: keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH)-immunized controls (n = 16) and VIP-immunized (n = 18). Second-cycle hens were divided into four groups: 1) unimmunized controls (n = 19), 2) KLH-immunized controls (n = 18), 3) VIP-immunized (n = 19), and 4) VIP-preimmunized (immunized during first cycle; n = 16). Each hen received four antigen injections beginning the day of photostimulation (4-wk intervals), except for the preimmunized hens, which received three injections beginning 4 wk after photostimulation. The maximum titer of VIP antibodies in first-cycle, second-cycle, and preimmunized hens was 17.2+/-2.2, 20.9+/-2.9, and 21.7+/-3.2%, respectively. After photostimulation, plasma prolactin of first- and second-cycle control hens peaked between 484 +/-105 and 630+/-118 ng/mL. In contrast, prolactin changed very little in VIP-immunized turkeys. The average number of daily nest visits was less in first- and second-cycle VIP-immunized hens (1.68+/-0.23 and 1.09+/-0.15 visits per hen per day, respectively) than in their respective KLH-immunized controls (2.47+/-0.36 and 2.65+/-0.45 visits per hen per day). Expression of incubation behavior was 50.0 and 52.6% in first- and second-cycle control hens, respectively, upon termination of the study. In contrast, only 11.1% first-cycle and 5.2% second-cycle VIP-immunized turkeys exhibited the hormonal and behavioral characteristics of incubating hens. Average weekly egg production of first- and second-cycle VIP-immunized turkeys was similar (3.58+/-0.19 vs. 3.63+/-0.14 eggs per hen per wk). First- and second-cycle control hens laid 2.63+/-0.25 and 2.41+/-0.20 eggs per hen per wk, respectively. The present results show that comparable egg production was attained in first- and second-cycle hens by active immunization with VIP.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E El-Halawani
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul 55108, USA.
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36
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Vleck CM, Patrick DJ. Effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide on prolactin secretion in three species of passerine birds. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1999; 113:146-54. [PMID: 9882553 DOI: 10.1006/gcen.1998.7191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Previous work on domesticated species has indicated that vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is an important prolactin-releasing factor in these birds, but no comparative work in passerine birds has been reported. This study showed that iv injections of VIP (50-100 microg/kg body mass) result in a dramatic, but transitory, rise in plasma prolactin in Mexican jays (Aphelocoma ultramarina). Significant increases in prolactin were also observed following VIP injection in blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) and zebra finches (Poephilla guttata). At the dosage we used, maximum levels of prolactin attained were slightly lower (Mexican jays) or very similar (blue jay and zebra finch) to the maximum prolactin levels observed in other, breeding birds of the same species. In zebra finches that initially had low prolactin, VIP injection resulted in a greater than 10-fold increase in prolactin within 10 min, but those individuals that already had elevated prolactin showed no further increase in response to VIP. Slow-release pellets of VIP implanted subcutaneously in Mexican jays and releasing 10 or 15 microg VIP/day (two or three pellets) produced a significant increase in plasma prolactin (78 and 92% rise, respectively) compared to birds with placebo pellets or with with one pellet releasing only 5 microg/day.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Vleck
- Department of Zoology and Genetics, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, 50011, USA
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37
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Richard-Yris MA, Guémené D, Lea RW, Sharp PJ, Bédécarrats G, Forasté M, Wauters AM. Behaviour and hormone concentrations in nest deprived and renesting hens. Br Poult Sci 1998; 39:309-17. [PMID: 9693809 DOI: 10.1080/00071669888836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
1. Nest and egg deprivation is a procedure traditionally used to disrupt incubation behaviour expression in commercial flocks. The aim of this study was to establish how nest deprivation affects the subsequent changes in behaviour and hormone secretion and whether readiness to renest is related to hormone concentration before and during nest deprivation. 2. Incubating broiler breeder hens were deprived of their nest either in their familiar environment, by blocking the nest entrance in the home cage or in an unfamiliar environment, by transfer in a different cage. After 3 days of nest deprivation, next access was allowed and readiness to incubate tested. 3. Both methods of nest deprivation resulted in the expression of similar behaviours associated with the disruption of incubation, and similar increases in plasma LH and oestradiol and decreases in plasma prolactin. The percentage (approximately 70%) of hens which renested after either method of nest deprivation did not differ significantly. 4. Readiness to renest was not related to the concentrations of plasma prolactin measured before or during the 3 days of nest deprivation. However, hens which would later renest could be identified by using behavioural criteria. They emitted more avoidance trills before, and sat on the wire floor for longer periods during, the nest deprivation period than the others.
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38
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Richard-Yris MA, Sharp PJ, Wauters AM, Guémené D, Richard JP, Forasté M. Influence of stimuli from chicks on behavior and concentrations of plasma prolactin and luteinizing hormone in incubating hens. Horm Behav 1998; 33:139-48. [PMID: 9647939 DOI: 10.1006/hbeh.1998.1444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Removal of eggs from the nests of incubating birds or substitution of eggs for chicks disrupts incubation behavior and induces changes in the secretion of prolactin and luteinizing hormone (LH). The aim of the present study was to determine how different stimuli, such as physical contact with eggs and tactile, visual, and/or auditory cues from chicks, interact to control the transition between incubation and brooding and to induce changes in prolactin and LH plasma concentrations. Physical contact with chicks, in the presence or absence of eggs, induced brooding behavior and an immediate fall in plasma prolactin concentration and a gradual increase in LH concentration. Vocalizations, particularly clucking and food calls, increased rapidly while incubation and nest attachment disappeared slowly. No change in plasma prolactin or LH concentration was observed in incubating hens which could hear and see or only hear chicks. These incubating hens showed no interest in chicks and continued to incubate persistently. To conclude, tactile stimuli, alone or in combination with visual and/or auditory stimuli from newly hatched chicks, are the only cues that induce the transition from incubation to brooding and the associated decrease in prolactin secretion and increase in LH secretion.
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39
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Dawson A, Sharp PJ. The role of prolactin in the development of reproductive photorefractoriness and postnuptial molt in the European starling (Sturnus vulgaris). Endocrinology 1998; 139:485-90. [PMID: 9449615 DOI: 10.1210/endo.139.2.5701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Seasonal breeding in many birds, including the European starling, is terminated by the development of absolute reproductive photorefractoriness, followed by a postnuptial molt, when photo-induced PRL secretion is at its seasonal maximum. To determine whether this photo-induced increase in PRL secretion has a causal role in the development of photorefractoriness or molt, European starlings were actively immunized against vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), the PRL releasing hormone in birds, or against PRL, during a photo-induced breeding cycle. In half of the VIP-immunized birds, the photo-induced increase in PRL was completely suppressed. Although these birds became photorefractory, the rate of gonadal regression was markedly slowed. These birds did not molt. In the remaining VIP-immunized birds, the photo-induced increase in PRL was inhibited but not completely suppressed. In these birds, and in those immunized against PRL, gonadal regression was also slowed, but molt progressed as normal. There were no significant differences in concentrations of plasma thyroxine between treatment and control groups, indicating that the effects of immunization on gonadal regression were not mediated by the induction of hypothyroidism. These results are consistent with the view that in the European starling the seasonal photo-induced increase in PRL accelerates gonadal regression during the onset of photorefractoriness but does not itself cause photorefractoriness. Further, the seasonal increase in PRL is required for the induction of the postnuptial molt.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Dawson
- Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom.
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40
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Buntin JD. Neural and Hormonal Control of Parental Behavior in Birds. ADVANCES IN THE STUDY OF BEHAVIOR 1996. [DOI: 10.1016/s0065-3454(08)60333-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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41
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Saldanha CJ, Silver R. Intraventricular prolactin inhibits hypothalamic vasoactive-intestinal polypeptide-expression in doves. J Neuroendocrinol 1995; 7:881-7. [PMID: 8748126 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.1995.tb00730.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
While the role of prolactin in promoting the development of the crop-sac in members of the pigeon family (Columbiformes) is well established, its action in the central nervous system is less well understood. In the present study, prolactin was administered intracerebroventricularily (i.c.v.) in ring doves, and central expression of vasoactive-intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), and the display of sexual behavior was investigated. Ovine-prolactin (1 microgram in 2 microliters o-prl) was injected daily for six days through chronically implanted cannula either prior to a 2-h period of courtship, or late in incubation. Control subjects were given vehicle injections and were otherwise identical to experimental animals. Prolactin administered prior to courtship resulted in a reduction of sexual behavior, and in a decrease in testicular weight but had no detectable effect on the number of neurons expressing VIP or GnRH. In contrast, i.c.v. prolactin during incubation resulted in a reduced number of infundibular VIP-positive neurons and decreased crop weight. We conclude that during incubation prolactin regulates its own synthesis and/or release by modulating VIP expression in infundibular neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Saldanha
- Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
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42
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Leboucher G, Richard-Yris MA, Guemene D, Chadwick A. Respective effects of chicks and nest on behavior and hormonal concentrations of incubating domestic hens. Physiol Behav 1993; 54:135-40. [PMID: 8327592 DOI: 10.1016/0031-9384(93)90055-k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Removal of incubating hens from their nestboxes or substitution of chicks for eggs disrupt incubation; prolactin levels decrease whereas luteinizing hormone and gonadal steroid concentrations tend to rise. The present experiment was undertaken to determine the relative influence of removing the nest (nest-deprived hens), adding chicks (maternal hens), or both (maternal nest-deprived hens), on the behavior and hormone concentrations of incubating hens. The results confirm that nest removal, as well as adding chicks, stops incubation. No differences were found between maternal and maternal nest-deprived hens' behavioral responses or hormonal concentrations. These results do not support the hypothesis that the drop of plasma prolactin observed in maternal hens is the consequence of the nest abandonment. In contrast, nest-deprived hens presented lower concentrations of prolactin and higher concentrations of estradiol than maternal and maternal nest-deprived hens. Moreover, the nest-deprived hens presented lower concentrations of prolactin and higher concentrations of LH and estradiol than the hens given chicks. We assume that physical contact with chicks, during brooding bouts, slows down the decrease of prolactin secretion and inhibits LH and estradiol release at the end of incubation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Leboucher
- Laboratoire d'Ethologie Expérimentale et Comparée, URA CNRS 667, Université de Paris Nord, Villetaneuse, France
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43
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Hypothalamic monoamine turnover in ring doves (streptopelia risoria), courting, incubating and brooding young. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1992. [DOI: 10.1016/0742-8413(92)90019-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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44
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Book CM, Millam JR. Influence of nest-box substrate (pine shavings vs. artificial turf) on nesting behavior and prolactin levels in turkey hens (Meleagris gallopavo). Appl Anim Behav Sci 1992. [DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1591(05)80088-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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45
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Hall MR. Endocrinological and behavioral changes associated with the onset of incubation in the duck. Physiol Behav 1991; 50:311-6. [PMID: 1745674 DOI: 10.1016/0031-9384(91)90071-u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Plasma levels of prolactin were measured during the onset of incubation in ducks. A rapid rise in prolactin levels from a mean of 5.7 to 33.1 ng/ml occurred during the formation of the final 20% of the clutch; during which the females increased their nest-box occupancy from 9.9 to 22.2 hours per day. A pronounced decrease in plasma progesterone levels, but not estradiol, occurred in females in the days immediately preceding the onset of incubation and termination of egg laying. A similar decrease in plasma LH occurred. Plasma corticosterone levels also decreased during the transition from egg laying to incubation. In male ducks, who play no role in incubation, LH remained constant until well into incubation when it decreased. Changes in plasma levels of prolactin are discussed in relation to tactile stimulation from the clutch and nutritional stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Hall
- Max-Planck-Institute für Verhaltensphysiologie, Vogelwarte Radolfzell und Andechs, Federal Republic of Germany
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46
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Book CM, Millam JR, Guinan MJ, Kitchell RL. Brood patch innervation and its role in the onset of incubation in the turkey hen. Physiol Behav 1991; 50:281-5. [PMID: 1745670 DOI: 10.1016/0031-9384(91)90067-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The source of innervation to the brood patch in turkey hens was determined by recording the electrophysiological activity of cutaneous nerves while manually stimulating various regions of the skin. The entire area of the brood patch was innervated by eight nerves, arising from thoracic vertebra 3 to synsacrothoracic vertebra 1. To determine whether afferent input from the brood patch influenced egg production or incubation behavior, hens were bilaterally denervated prior to photoinduced egg production. Denervated hens visited nests the same number of times, but stayed on the nest for less total time than controls by the fourth week of photostimulation. Serum prolactin levels rose in control hens but not in denervated hens. Egg production was maintained in the denervated hens but not in controls. None of the denervated hens displayed incubation behavior. This experiment supports the view that peripheral nervous input plays a role in the onset of incubation behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Book
- Department of Avian Sciences, University of California, Davis 95616
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47
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Abstract
Plasma concentrations of prolactin and corticosterone were determined in hourly samples collected over a 25-hr period from unrestrained turkey hens exhibiting incubation (broody) behavior. Hens were maintained in cages on a 14 hr light: 10 hr dark photoperiod. Mean plasma prolactin concentration increased significantly late in the dark period to reach maximum daily levels of 496 ng/ml at the start of the photophase. However, a well-defined daily rhythm in prolactin secretion was not evident. Plasma corticosterone concentration showed a significant daily rhythm characterized by a major secretory peak (7.14 ng/ml) in the middle of the light period and a smaller, less well-defined peak (4.11 ng/ml) during the dark period. Both prolactin and corticosterone secretion ranged widely throughout the day in individual hens in a manner suggestive of pulsatile hormone secretion. This study demonstrates that the extremely high prolactin concentrations characteristic of the incubating turkey hen reflect large, dynamic changes in plasma prolactin concentrations occurring throughout the photoperiod, rather than a constantly high level of prolactin secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Proudman
- Avian Physiology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, Maryland 20705
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48
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Leboucher G, Richard-Yris MA, Williams J, Chadwick A. Incubation and maternal behaviour in domestic hens: influence of the presence of chicks on circulating luteinising hormone, prolactin and oestradiol and on behaviour. Br Poult Sci 1990; 31:851-62. [PMID: 2097039 DOI: 10.1080/00071669008417316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
1. The consequences of the adoption of chicks and their subsequent removal on behaviour and plasma hormone concentrations of incubating hens were investigated. Birds were divided into two group: in group A, incubating hens were given chicks for 11 d; in group B chicks were left with the hens for 3 d only. 2. Incubating hens given chicks immediately showed maternal responses. The introduction of chicks induced a gradual nest desertion. Their removal stopped nest desertion temporarily on day 4 in group B hens. 3. Plasma prolactin concentrations fell one day after introduction of chicks and continued to decline for about one week in group A hens, although there was no further significant decrease in group B hens. Circulating prolactin tended to decrease with time in both groups. 4. Plasma luteinising hormone (LH) concentrations increased concurrently with the decrease of prolactin. The increase was more abrupt in group B hens. 5. Plasma oestradiol concentrations decreased slightly on the day chicks were introduced. The decline was arrested by removal of chicks in group B; in group A the tendency was reversed about 10 days after chick introduction. 6. Irrespective of group, before chick removal hens which deserted their nest rapidly had less contact with chicks and lower prolactin concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Leboucher
- Laboratoire de Biologie et Physiologie du Comportement, Université de Paris X-Nanterre, France
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49
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el Halawani ME, Silsby JL, Mauro LJ. Vasoactive intestinal peptide is a hypothalamic prolactin-releasing neuropeptide in the turkey (Meleagris gallopavo). Gen Comp Endocrinol 1990; 78:66-73. [PMID: 2158920 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(90)90048-q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The hypothesis that vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) functions as a hypothalamic prolactin (PRL)-releasing peptide in the turkey was tested by determining the effects of hypothalamic VIP immunoneutralization and pituitary VIP receptor blockade on hypothalamic extract (HE)-induced PRL secretion from dispersed anterior pituitaries. Incubation of cells with porcine VIP (pVIP; 0.5 or 10 nM) significantly stimulated PRL secretion. This effect was inhibited in a dose-related manner by 1-hr preincubation of pVIP with a VIP antisera (A/S; 1:500-1:50,000). Likewise, HE (0.3 equivalent)-stimulated PRL secretion was inhibited by preincubation with VIP A/S (P less than 0.0001). A 96-98% reduction in PRL secretion was obtained from cells cultured with HE, that was previously incubated with 1/500 dilution of antiserum. Pretreatment of pituitary cells for 15 min with [4Cl-D-Phe6,Leu17] VIP, a VIP receptor antagonist (10(-5) M), significantly depressed the PRL response to 0.5 nM VIP (9.9 +/- 0.5 micrograms/500,000 cells vs 4.9 +/- 0.1 micrograms/500,000 cells; 22.4 +/- 0.9 micrograms/500,000 cells vs 14.7 +/- 0.4 micrograms/500,000 cells) or 0.3 eq HE (8.8 +/- 0.6 micrograms/500,000 cells vs 5.2 +/- 0.2 micrograms/500,000 cells; 15.3 +/- 0.3 micrograms/500,000 cells vs 8.2 +/- 0.2 micrograms/500,000 cells). These results suggest that hypothalamic stimulation of PRL secretion appears to be mediated by receptors specific for VIP and that VIP is an endogenous hypothalamic PRL-releasing peptide in the turkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E el Halawani
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul 55108
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50
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Oring LW, Fivizzani AJ, el Halawani ME. Testosterone-induced inhibition of incubation in the spotted sandpiper (Actitis mecularia). Horm Behav 1989; 23:412-23. [PMID: 2793081 DOI: 10.1016/0018-506x(89)90053-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The spotted sandpiper (Actitis macularia) is characterized by intense female intrasexual competition and predominantly male parental care. Females often are polyandrous. Incubating males were implanted with testosterone (T)-filled Silastic tubes. Plasma T levels were significantly elevated by T implants while prolactin (Prl) remained unchanged. Birds implanted with T deserted clutches (30%) or exhibited reduced incubation constancy (50%) while controls incubated normally. The T implants appeared to heighten sexual receptivity and hence reduce incubation constancy. Variation in male incubation behavior may have been further influenced by the degree to which males were exposed to courting females.
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Affiliation(s)
- L W Oring
- Department of Biology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks 58202
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