1
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Kline AC, Menegatti Zoca S, Epperson KM, Quail LK, Ketchum JN, Andrews TN, Rich JJJ, Rhoades JR, Walker JA, Perry GA. Evaluation of pregnancy associated glycoproteins assays for on farm determination of pregnancy status in beef cattle. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306325. [PMID: 39052584 PMCID: PMC11271854 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Transrectal ultrasonography is known as the gold standard for pregnancy detection, but requires costly equipment and technical skills; therefore, access to an inexpensive and more user-friendly method with similar accuracy could benefit cattle producers. Detection of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins can accurately determine pregnancy in ruminants; however, usually requires specialized equipment for the assay. Thus, the objectives of these studies were to 1) validate the IDEXX Alertys OnFarm Pregnancy Test (lateral flow) and compare the accuracy of all three commercial PAG assays to transrectal ultrasonography and 2) to determine the postpartum interval necessary for clearance of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins from the previous pregnancy to avoid false positives. In study 1, blood samples from previously identified pregnant Bos taurus females from six different herds (nulliparous n = 1,205 and multiparous n = 1,539; samples collected between d 27 to 285 of gestation over a three-year period) were utilized. In study 2, postpartum females (primiparous n = 48 and multiparous n = 66) from one herd were utilized: (n = 1,066; samples collected weekly for up to 12 weeks postpartum). In study 1, level of agreement between different methods of pregnancy detection was determined by Pearson's correlation and Kappa scores. In study 2, data were analyzed as a repeated measure using the MIXED procedure of SAS with main effects of parity, days postpartum (dpp), and parity by days postpartum, then data were analyzed further using the REG procedure of SAS. In study 1, transrectal ultrasonography and lateral flow were positively correlated (r = 0.77; P <0.01), with 92.4% agreement. In study 2, the abundance of absorbance of PAGs rapidly decreased from 0 to 50 days postpartum, then continued to gradually decrease (P <0.01; r = 0.90). Prior to 42 days postpartum, PAG concentrations were sufficiently elevated resulting in false positive readings in all assays. In conclusion, there is very good agreement between transrectal ultrasonography and PAG assays, but likelihood of false positive results are highif assays are performed fewer than 42 days postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adalaide C. Kline
- Department of Animal Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Saulo Menegatti Zoca
- Department of Animal Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Kaitlin M. Epperson
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Overton, Texas, United States of America
| | - Lacey K. Quail
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Overton, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jaclyn N. Ketchum
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Overton, Texas, United States of America
| | - Taylor N. Andrews
- Department of Animal Science, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, United States of America
| | - Jerica J. J. Rich
- Department of Animal Science, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, Arkansas, United States of America
| | - Jim R. Rhoades
- IDEXX Laboratories, Westbrook, Maine, United States of America
| | - Julie A. Walker
- Department of Animal Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - George A. Perry
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Overton, Texas, United States of America
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Hincapie N, Lauber MR, Valdes-Arciniega T, Martins JP, Carvalho PD, Faber R, Farruggio R, Fricke PM. Evaluation of treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin at transfer of in vitro produced beef embryos on reproductive outcomes in lactating multiparous Jersey cows after a synchronized ovulation. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)01022-1. [PMID: 39033921 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2024-25002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Our objective was to evaluate the effect of treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) at the time of transfer of in vitro produced (IVP) beef embryos on pregnancy outcomes in lactating multiparous Jersey cows. Grade 1, Stage 7 (expanded blastocyst), IVP beef embryos were produced from black Angus-based dams using 3 proven high fertility Angus sires and were frozen for direct transfer. In a preliminary experiment, lactating multiparous Jersey cows were randomized to a 2x2 factorial arrangement of treatments to test the main effect of recipient synchronization protocol (Double-Ovsynch; DO; n = 169 vs. a synchronized estrus; ED; n = 180) and were randomly assigned within recipient protocol to serve as untreated controls (DO-CON, n = 78; ED-CON, n = 44) or to receive i.m. treatment with 2,500 IU of hCG (DO-hCG, n = 79; ED-hCG, n = 46) at the time of embryo transfer (ET). The recipient utilization rate was greater for DO (93%) than for ED (50%) cows, and there was an interaction between recipient synchronization protocol and hCG treatment in which DO-hCG cows had more pregnancies per embryo transfer (P/ET) at 26, 33, and 61 d than DO-CON, ED-hCG, and ED-CON cows. Based on a partial budget analysis, the cost per pregnancy for DO cows was $135.35 less than for ED cows. In Experiment 2, lactating multiparous Jersey cows were submitted to a Double-Ovsynch protocol (DO, n = 386) and were randomly assigned to serve as untreated controls (CON, n = 192) or were treated with 2,500 IU hCG (hCG, n = 194) at ET. Progesterone concentrations and total luteal volume 7 d after ET were greater for hCG than for CON cows. In contrast to the preliminary experiment, treatment with hCG did not affect P/ET at 26, 33, or 61 d, and treatment with hCG did not affect pregnancy loss from 26 to 61 d. In conclusion, treatment with 2,500 IU of hCG at ET increased P4 concentrations and total luteal volume 7 d after ET but did not increase pregnancy outcomes or decrease pregnancy loss in lactating multiparous Jersey cows receiving frozen/thawed IVP beef embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Hincapie
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - M R Lauber
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - T Valdes-Arciniega
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706; Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - J P Martins
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - P D Carvalho
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - R Faber
- Reprovider LLC, Janesville, WI 53546
| | - R Farruggio
- Jefferson Veterinary Clinic, S.C., Jefferson, WI 53549
| | - P M Fricke
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706.
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3
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Maeda T, Kitahara G, Osawa T. Comparison of serum concentrations of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins and estrone sulphate during pregnancy in eutocia and dystocia beef cattle. Vet J 2024; 305:106147. [PMID: 38810930 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2024.106147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Preventing dystocia can stabilise beef cattle management. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) S-N values and estrone sulphate (E1S) concentrations during pregnancy and the calf birth weight in beef cattle and to evaluate their usefulness as new predictive parameters for dystocia due to foetal overgrowth. Thirty-eight pregnant Japanese Black cattle were used. Blood samples were collected at 40, 70, 100, 150, 200, 250, 280, and 285 days after artificial insemination (AI), and birth weight of the offspring was measured. Serum PAGs S-N values and E1S concentrations were measured, and the area under the curve (AUC) and the ratio of change based on 70 days after AI were calculated, followed by calculation of the correlation coefficient with the birth weight of the offspring and comparison between the eutocia (n = 32) and dystocia (n = 6) groups. The birth weight of the offspring was moderately positively correlated with the AUC of serum PAGs S-N values and E1S concentrations in the second (r = 0.425, P < 0.01) and third (r = 0.595, P < 0.01) trimesters, respectively. The ratio of change in serum E1S concentrations between 70 and 280 days after AI was greater (P < 0.05) in the dystocia group (1276.6 ± 229.1 %) than in the eutocia group (852.6 ± 69.6 %). These results suggest that blood PAGs S-N values at mid-pregnancy (100-199 days after AI) and the ratio of changes in blood E1S concentrations between 70 and 280 days after AI may be new parameters for predicting dystocia.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Maeda
- Miyakonojyo Livestock Clinic, Miyazaki Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, Miyakonojyo, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - G Kitahara
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Japan
| | - T Osawa
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Japan.
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López-Gatius F, Ganau S, Garcia-Ispierto I. Evaluation of a Commercial Pregnancy Test Using Blood or Plasma Samples in High-Producing Dairy Cows. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1656. [PMID: 38891703 PMCID: PMC11171026 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated a commercial pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs)-based pregnancy test using whole blood or plasma samples during early pregnancy (28-55 days of gestation) in high-producing dairy cows. Transrectal ultrasonography was used as the gold standard method. The study population constituted of 284 cows. False positive diagnoses were recorded from Day 60 to 89 and from Day 60 to 99 postpartum in blood and plasma samples, respectively. In early pregnancy screening, correct positive diagnoses were recorded in 75% and 100% of blood and plasma samples, respectively. High milk production was associated with negative results in blood samples and with the lowest test line intensity in plasma samples. False positive or negative diagnoses were recorded in 0% of both types of samples in cows previously diagnosed as pregnant and showing signs of estrus. In conclusion, the use of plasma was more effective than the use of blood in early pregnancy diagnosis. In cows previously diagnosed as pregnant and showing signs of estrus, both types of samples showed the same results. Because of large individual variations, normal single pregnancies could not be differentiated from twin pregnancies, from pregnancies with a recently dead conceptus, or from pregnancies that experienced subsequent pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Centre, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
- Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, 22300 Barbastro, Spain
| | - Sergi Ganau
- Granja Sant Josep, La Melusa, Tamarite, 22549 Huesca, Spain
| | - Irina Garcia-Ispierto
- Agrotecnio Centre, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
- Department of Animal Science, University of Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain
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Rial C, Hussain I, Hoff R, Tompkins S, Erickson D, Branen J, Giordano JO. Development and evaluation of a lateral flow-based portable optical system for determination of the pregnancy status of dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)00874-9. [PMID: 38825130 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2024-24899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Our objectives were to develop and evaluate an integrated system consisting of a lateral-flow immunoassay (LFIA) and an electronic portable imaging device for determination of pregnancy status of cows based on plasma concentrations of pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB). Experiment 1 was conducted to test the performance of the LFIA for PSPB (PSPB-LFIA) whereas experiment 2 was conducted to evaluate the performance of the integrated system including both the LFIA and imaging device. The PSPB-LFIA strips were made of nitrocellulose membrane with polystreptavidin, anti-mouse antibody, Europium-anti-PSPB conjugates, and biotin-PSPB. After adding buffer and plasma in a 96-well plate, strips were dipped to initiate flow and were read in a fluorescence microscope to estimate PSPB concentrations based on the test-to-control line signal (T/C ratio). The T/C ratio of standards was linearly associated with PSPB (R2 = 0.99 in both experiments) concentrations. To test the ability to identify pregnant cows of the PSPB-LFIA only or the integrated system, plasma samples were collected and transrectal ultrasonography (TUS) was conducted 29 to 35 d post AI in lactating Holstein cows (Experiment 1: n = 83; Experiment 2: n = 205). A cow was considered pregnant (Preg) if concentrations of PSPB in plasma obtained by ELISA were ≥2 ng/mL or if an embryo was visible by TUS. In Experiment 1, the accuracy of the PSPB-LFIA compared with ELISA was 92.7% (91.2% Se; 96.1% Sp; 98.1% PPV; 83.3% NPV) and compared with TUS was 90.4% (100% Se; 78.9% Sp; 84.9% PPV; 100% NPV). The agreement between LFIA and ELISA (kappa = 0.84; 95%CI 0.71-0.96) or LFIA and TUS (kappa = 0.80; 95%CI 0.67-0.93) as methods to classify cows as Preg or Non-Preg was high. In Experiment 2, the accuracy of the PSPB-LFIA compared with ELISA was 96.1% (93.8% Se; 100% Sp; 100% PPV; 90.5% NPV) and compared with TUS was 92.2% (99.0% Se; 84.7% Sp; 87.6% PPV; 98.8% NPV). The agreement between LFIA and ELISA (kappa = 0.92; 95%CI 0.86-0.97) or LFIA and TUS (kappa = 0.84; 95%CI 0.77-0.92) as methods to classify cows as Preg or Non-Preg was high. We conclude that a system integrating a fluorescence-based LFIA and an optical reader was effective for classifying cows as pregnant or not pregnant based on estimations of plasma concentrations of PSPB. This novel system serves as a platform for further development of on-farm pregnancy testing tools based on measurement of biomarkers of pregnancy in bodily fluids of cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Rial
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | - I Hussain
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | - R Hoff
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | - S Tompkins
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | - D Erickson
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | | | - J O Giordano
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.
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Priyo TW, Edo A, Taura Y, Yamato O, Ono T, Taniguchi M, Widodo OS, Islam MS, Maki S, Takagi M. Novel Approach for Evaluating Pregnancy-Associated Glycoprotein and Inflammation Markers during the Postpartum Period in Holstein Friesian Cows. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1459. [PMID: 38791678 PMCID: PMC11117242 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the relationship between decreased pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) levels, inflammatory parameters (serum amyloid A [SAA] and milk amyloid A [MAA]), postpartum inflammatory conditions (mastitis, ketosis, and follicular cysts), and the FOXP3 gene. Nineteen Holstein-Friesian cows were included in this study. Up to approximately eight weeks after delivery, weekly health examinations were performed for mastitis and ketosis, and reproductive organ ultrasonography was performed. The decreasing PAG rate was negatively correlated with SAA concentration (r = -0.493, p = 0.032). Cows with mastitis exhibited a slower trend of PAG decrease (p = 0.095), and a greater percentage of these cows had MAA concentrations above 12 µg/mL (p = 0.074) compared with those without mastitis. A negative correlation, although nonsignificant (r = -0.263, p = 0.385), was observed between the day-open period and decreased PAG rate. The day-open period was correlated with the presence or absence of follicular cysts (p = 0.046). Four cows that developed follicular cysts were homozygous for the G allele of the FOXP3 gene related to repeat breeders. These results indicate a relationship between a decreased PAG rate and inflammatory status during the postpartum period. Thus, suppressing inflammation during the perinatal period may improve reproductive efficiency in the dairy industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Topas Wicaksono Priyo
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan; (T.W.P.J.); (M.T.); (O.S.W.)
- Department of Reproduction and Obstetrics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
| | - Ayane Edo
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan; (A.E.); (Y.T.); (T.O.)
| | - Yasuho Taura
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan; (A.E.); (Y.T.); (T.O.)
| | - Osamu Yamato
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Science, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; (O.Y.); (M.S.I.); (S.M.)
- Division of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
| | - Tetsushi Ono
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan; (A.E.); (Y.T.); (T.O.)
| | - Masayasu Taniguchi
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan; (T.W.P.J.); (M.T.); (O.S.W.)
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan; (A.E.); (Y.T.); (T.O.)
| | - Oky Setyo Widodo
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan; (T.W.P.J.); (M.T.); (O.S.W.)
- Division of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
| | - Md Shafiqul Islam
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Science, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; (O.Y.); (M.S.I.); (S.M.)
| | - Shinichiro Maki
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Science, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan; (O.Y.); (M.S.I.); (S.M.)
| | - Mitsuhiro Takagi
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan; (T.W.P.J.); (M.T.); (O.S.W.)
- Joint Faculty of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan; (A.E.); (Y.T.); (T.O.)
- Division of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
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Yang MK, Yeh RH, Lee CJ, Yeh YH, Chen YH, Banhazi T, Tu PA. Pregnancy maintenance and fetal loss assessment in Holstein cows through analyzing pregnancy-associated glycoproteins in milk. Theriogenology 2024; 217:11-17. [PMID: 38219409 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Fetal loss (FL) from the 45th day of gestation until calving can impose a significant economic burden on dairy farmers, resulting in lost profits and increased production costs. Pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) is commonly used for detecting pregnancy in cows. PAG is secreted by binucleated trophoblast cells of the placenta and regulated by more than 24 genes. The purpose of this study was to determine the PAG threshold for FL and a probability of pregnancy maintenance until calving based on milk PAG levels. Our results reveal that primiparous and multiparous cows that maintained pregnancy until the 40th week exhibited higher PAG sample-negative (SN) values in their milk in the 6th week of gestation than did those that experienced FL later in gestation. Pregnant cows with higher PAG SN values in the 6th week of gestation were more likely to maintain their pregnancies. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for predicting the probability of pregnancy maintenance was 0.722 for our prediction model. On the other hand, a milk PAG SN value of <0.192 indicated 95 % confidence that FL would occur between the 7th and 40th weeks of gestation. Milk PAG testing is a noninvasive sampling technique that does not induce additional stress in lactating cows. The study reveals that PAG SN values increase significantly in Holstein cows during the 6th week of gestation. The predictive model developed was effective in forecasting pregnancy outcomes up to the 40th week of gestation or calving. The model's performance is moderately good for field application and could be a useful tool for dairy producers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Kuew Yang
- Northern Region Branch, Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Miaoli, 368, Taiwan
| | - Ruei-Han Yeh
- Animal Products Processing Division, Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Tainan, 71246, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Lee
- Livestock Management Division, Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Tainan, 71246, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsin Yeh
- Northern Region Branch, Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Miaoli, 368, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsuan Chen
- Northern Region Branch, Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Miaoli, 368, Taiwan
| | - Thomas Banhazi
- National Taiwan University, International College, Changxing st, Da'an, Taipei, 10672, Taiwan
| | - Po-An Tu
- Northern Region Branch, Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Miaoli, 368, Taiwan.
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Domingues RR, Andrade JPN, Cunha TO, Madureira G, Hoppman AS, Teixeira NN, Monteiro PLJ, Gomez-Leon VH, Martins JPN, Wiltbank MC. Profiles of interferon-stimulated genes in multiple tissues and circulating pregnancy-associated glycoproteins and their association with pregnancy loss in dairy cows†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:558-568. [PMID: 38079518 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy loss (PL) in lactating dairy cows disrupts reproductive and productive efficiency. We evaluated the expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISG) in blood leukocytes, vaginal and cervical epithelial cells, luteolysis-related genes, progesterone, and pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) profiles in lactating dairy cows (n = 86) to gain insight about PL. Expression of ISG on d17, d19, and d21 was greater in cows that maintained the pregnancy (P33) compared to nonpregnant with no PL (NP). Greater ISG differences between groups were observed in the cervix (96.7-fold) than vagina (31.0-fold), and least in blood leukocytes (5.6-fold). Based on individual profiles of ISG and PAG, PL was determined to occur either before (~13%) or after (~25%) d22. For cows with PL before d22, ISG expression was similar on d17 but by d21 was lower and OXTR was greater than P33 cows and similar to NP; timing of luteolysis was similar compared to NP cows suggesting embryonic failure to promote luteal maintenance and to attach to the endometrium (no increase in PAG). For cows with PL after d22, ISG expression was similar to P33 cows on d17, d19, and d21 and luteolysis, when it occurred, was later than NP cows; delayed increase in PAG suggested later or inadequate embryonic attachment. In conclusion, PL before d22 occurred due to embryonic demise/failure to signal for luteal maintenance, as reflected in reduced ISG expression by d21. Alternatively, embryos with PL between d22 and 33 adequately signaled for luteal maintenance (ISG) but had delayed/inadequate embryonic attachment and/or inappropriate luteolysis causing PL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael R Domingues
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Joao Paulo N Andrade
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Thiago O Cunha
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Guilherme Madureira
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - August S Hoppman
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Natalia N Teixeira
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Pedro L J Monteiro
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Victor H Gomez-Leon
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Joao Paulo N Martins
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Milo C Wiltbank
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Vincent EC, Bapodra-Villaverde P, Branen JR, Dadone L. VALIDATION OF A NOVEL ENZYME-LINKED IMMUNOSORBENT ASSAY FOR DETECTING PREGNANCY-SPECIFIC PROTEIN B IN MASAI GIRAFFE ( GIRAFFA CAMELOPARDALIS TIPPELSKIRCHI). J Zoo Wildl Med 2024; 55:42-47. [PMID: 38453486 DOI: 10.1638/2023-0058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The Masai giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) is endangered in the wild, and successful reproduction in managed care is important to help maintain assurance populations of this highly charismatic subspecies. Detection of pregnancy in giraffes using hormonal monitoring requires multiple samples and cannot distinguish pregnancy from pseudopregnancy. A novel enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay that can detect pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) for pregnancy diagnosis with a single serum sample was developed from a reticulated giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata) placenta. Seventy-eight serum samples were analyzed from three female Masai giraffes before and during five gestation periods that resulted in live calf births. Using an optical density cutoff of 0.2, the assay showed a sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 100% for all samples tested. At 59 d of gestation, sensitivity increased to 100%. The earliest pregnancy detection was at 40 d of gestation. This study documents the successful development of a blood-based PSPB assay for pregnancy diagnosis in Masai giraffe, which can help advance conservation efforts in this endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C Vincent
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Powell, OH 43065, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | | | | | - Liza Dadone
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, USA
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10
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Keogh MJ, Thompson DP, Crouse JA. Tracking reproductive events: Hoof growth and steroid hormone concentrations in hair and hoof tissues in moose ( Alces alces). CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 11:coad097. [PMID: 38107464 PMCID: PMC10722880 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coad097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Measurements of reproductive and stress-related hormones in keratinous tissues (e.g. hair, claws, hooves, baleen) can provide a record of stress and reproductive response in wildlife. We evaluated a method to collect keratin tissue from hooves of immobilized moose (Alces alces) and validated enzyme immunoassays for measuring cortisol and progesterone in hooves and hair. We also measured the annual growth and wear rates of moose hooves. Progesterone (range: 1.0-43.7 pg/mg) and cortisol (range: 0.05-2.9 pg/mg) were measurable and showed variation among hoof samples and moose. Pregnant females had twice as high progesterone concentrations (18.00 ± 3.73 pg/mg) from hoof sample locations post breeding compared to non-pregnant moose (9.40 ± 0.25 pg/mg). Annual hoof growth differed between the front (5.58 ± 0.12 cm) and rear (4.73 ± 0.13 cm) hooves and varied by season with higher growth rates during summer which decreased into autumn and winter. Adult female hooves represented between 1.6 and 2.1 years of growth and included up to two reproductive cycles. We established a method to estimate hoof growth rate and applied this to postmortem samples and were able to detect previous pregnancies. Shoulder guard hairs grew between August and March including during late gestation; however, hair progesterone concentrations (range: 2-107.1 pg/mg) were not related to reproductive state. Hair cortisol concentrations in our study (range: 0.2-15.9 pg/mg) were within the range of values previously reported for cervids. Our study supports the use of hooves for longitudinal sampling and measuring reproductive and stress-related hormones, providing a new tool for tracking reproductive events and understanding what variables may contribute to population level changes in reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy J Keogh
- Division of Wildlife Conservation, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, 802 3rd St, Douglas, AK 99801, USA
| | - Daniel P Thompson
- Kenai Moose Research Center, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, 43961 Kalifornsky Beach Road Suite B, Soldotna, AK 99669, USA
| | - John A Crouse
- Kenai Moose Research Center, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, 43961 Kalifornsky Beach Road Suite B, Soldotna, AK 99669, USA
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11
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Rabaglino MB, Sánchez JM, McDonald M, O’Callaghan E, Lonergan P. Maternal blood transcriptome as a sensor of fetal organ maturation at the end of organogenesis in cattle†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:749-758. [PMID: 37658765 PMCID: PMC10651065 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Harnessing information from the maternal blood to predict fetal growth is attractive yet scarcely explored in livestock. The objectives were to determine the transcriptomic modifications in maternal blood and fetal liver, gonads, and heart according to fetal weight and to model a molecular signature based on the fetal organs allowing the prediction of fetal weight from the maternal blood transcriptome in cattle. In addition to a contemporaneous maternal blood sample, organ samples were collected from 10 male fetuses at 42 days of gestation for RNA-sequencing. Fetal weight ranged from 1.25 to 1.69 g (mean = 1.44 ± 0.15 g). Clustering data analysis revealed clusters of co-expressed genes positively correlated with fetal weight and enriching ontological terms biologically relevant for the organ. For the heart, the 1346 co-expressed genes were involved in energy generation and protein synthesis. For the gonads, the 1042 co-expressed genes enriched seminiferous tubule development. The 459 co-expressed genes identified in the liver were associated with lipid synthesis and metabolism. Finally, the cluster of 571 co-expressed genes determined in maternal blood enriched oxidative phosphorylation and thermogenesis. Next, data from the fetal organs were used to train a regression model of fetal weight, which was predicted with the maternal blood data. The best prediction was achieved when the model was trained with 35 co-expressed genes overlapping between heart and maternal blood (root-mean-square error = 0.04, R2 = 0.93). In conclusion, linking transcriptomic information from maternal blood with that from the fetal heart unveiled maternal blood as a predictor of fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Belen Rabaglino
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - José María Sánchez
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Elena O’Callaghan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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12
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Wiltbank MC, Monteiro PLJ, Domingues RR, Andrade JPN, Mezera MA. Review: Maintenance of the ruminant corpus luteum during pregnancy: interferon-tau and beyond. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100827. [PMID: 37567676 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
This manuscript reviews the mechanisms that maintain the corpus luteum (CL) of pregnancy in ruminants. In mammals, ovulation and luteinization of the remaining cells in the CL are due to a surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH). In cattle, continued secretion of pulses of LH is essential for full development and function of the CL during the estrous cycle (LH pulses), however, the few studies on the CL after d20 of pregnancy do not indicate that LH is essential for maintaining the CL of pregnancy. The first essential step in maintaining the CL of pregnancy in ruminants is overcoming the mechanisms that cause regression of the CL in non-pregnant ruminants (d18-25 in cattle; d13-21 in sheep). These mechanisms have a uterine component involving oxytocin-induced prostaglandin F2α (PGF2A) pulses and a luteal component involving decreased progesterone production and luteal cell death. There is a critical role for embryonic interferon-tau (IFNT) in suppressing the uterine secretion of PGF2A during early pregnancy (d13-21 in sheep; d16-25 in cattle) and preventing luteolysis. There are also effects of IFNT on the expression of interferon-stimulated genes in other tissues including the CL but the physiologic role of these interferon-stimulated genes is not yet clear. After the IFNT period, there is another mechanism that maintains the CL of pregnancy in ruminants since embryonic IFNT is inhibited as attachment occurs and trophoblastic binucleate/giant cells begin secretion of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins. The second mechanism for luteal maintenance has not yet been defined but acts in a local manner (ipsilateral to pregnancy), and remains functional from d25 until just before parturition. The most likely mechanisms mediating later maintenance of the CL of pregnancy are increased uterine blood flow or decreased prostaglandin transporter expression in the utero-ovarian vasculature, preventing PGF2A reaching the CL. Finally, implications of these ideas on pregnancy loss in cattle are explored, highlighting the importance of inappropriate regression of the CL of pregnancy as a mechanism for pregnancy loss in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milo C Wiltbank
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Pedro L J Monteiro
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Rafael R Domingues
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - João Paulo N Andrade
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Megan A Mezera
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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13
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Davenport KM, Ortega MS, Johnson GA, Seo H, Spencer TE. Review: Implantation and placentation in ruminants. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100796. [PMID: 37567669 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Ruminants have a unique placenta in comparison to other mammalian species. Initially, they possess a non-invasive epitheliochorial type of placenta during conceptus elongation. As the conceptus trophectoderm begins to attach to the luminal epithelium (LE) of the endometrium, binucleate cells (BNCs) develop within the trophoblast of the chorion. The BNCs migrate and fuse with the uterine LE to form multinucleate syncytial plaques in sheep and hybrid trinucleate cells in cattle. This area of the ruminant placenta is semi-invasive synepitheliochorial. The BNCs form the foundation of the placental cotyledons and express unique placenta-specific genes including pregnancy-associated glycoproteins and chorionic somatomammotropin hormone 2 or placental lactogen. Attachment and interdigitation of cotyledons into endometrial caruncles form placentomes that are subsequently vascularized to provide essential nutrients for growth of the fetus. This chapter review will discuss historical and current aspects of conceptus implantation and placenta development in ruminant ungulates with a focus on cattle and sheep. Single-cell analysis promises to provide a much more detailed understanding of the different cell populations and insights into pathways mediating trophoblast and placenta. This fundamental is required to understand pregnancy loss and develop strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes in ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Davenport
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - M S Ortega
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - G A Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences and Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 7784, USA
| | - H Seo
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences and Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 7784, USA
| | - T E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; Division of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
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Pursley JR, Santos A, Minela T. Review: Initial increase in pregnancy-specific protein B in maternal circulation after artificial insemination is a key indicator of embryonic survival in dairy cows. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100746. [PMID: 37567663 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactating dairy cows have reduced chances for pregnancy survival following 1st parturition. It appears that timing of conceptus attachment, defined as an initial daily rise in pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) postartificial insemination (AI), is key to the survival of the embryo. PSPB is a protein produced from binucleate cells of the trophectoderm of the conceptus. Once the conceptus has attached to the uterine epithelial cells, this large protein is detectable in maternal circulation. Daily sampling of serum allows for detection of the initial increase of PSPB. A percent increase threshold for PSPB was determined from results from each study using a conservative three-day minimum increase. Thus far, a 10 or 12.5% daily increase for three consecutive days had the greatest sensitivities and specificities for studies reported in this review. Nulliparous heifers receiving AI following estrus appear to have a reduced time to conceptus attachment compared to lactating cows that received either Ovsynch or AI following estrus. Increasing progesterone post-AI did not reduce time to conceptus attachment in lactating cows. Multiparous cows treated post-AI with human chorionic gonadotropin had a reduced percent with conceptus attachment in addition to greater time to conceptus attachment. Increased time to conceptus attachment increased the chances of multiparous cows having embryonic death before 35 d post-AI. Concentrations of PSPB are consistently reduced from conceptus attachment until d 28 post-AI in cows with pregnancy loss compared to cows that maintain pregnancy on d 34 post-AI. This novel model to determine timing of conceptus attachment provides a new perspective on percent of cows pregnant around d 20-23 post-AI and the potential for a greater understanding of subsequent pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
| | - Alisson Santos
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Thainá Minela
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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15
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Santos A, Minela T, Branen J, Pursley JR. Time to increase in pregnancy-specific protein B following artificial insemination is a direct determinant of subsequent pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:3734-3747. [PMID: 37028965 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Increasing progesterone (P4) during early conceptus development may be crucial for establishment of pregnancy in dairy cattle. The objective of this study was to determine if human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) at various times after ovulation will increase serum P4 during elongation and increase the chances for, and reduce variability to, initial increase in pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) following artificial insemination (AI). Time to PSPB increase was defined as the first day of increase in concentrations of PSPB between d 18 and 28 after ovulation in cows with ≥12.5% increases for 3 consecutive days compared with baseline. Lactating cows (n = 368) synchronized to Double-Ovsynch (first service) or Ovsynch (second or greater service) received one of 4 treatments: no hCG (control), or 3,000 IU of hCG on d 2 (D2), 2 and 5 (D2+5), or 5 (D5) after ovulation. All cows were examined via ultrasound on d 5 and 10 postovulation to determine percentage of cows with hCG-induced accessory CL (aCL) and to quantify and measure all luteal structures. Samples for serum P4 were collected on d 0, 5, 19, and 20 postovulation. The P4 was increased in D2, D2+5, and D5 groups compared with control. The D2+5 and D5 treatments increased aCL and P4 compared with D2 and control. The D2 treatment increased P4 on d 5 after ovulation compared with control. Serum PSPB samples were collected daily from all cows on d 18 through 28 after ovulation for determination of d of PSPB increase. Pregnancy diagnoses were performed via ultrasound examination on d 35, 63, and 100 after ovulation and AI. The D5 treatment reduced percentage of cows with, and increased the time to, PSPB increase. Primiparous cows with ipsilateral aCL had reduced pregnancy loss before d 100 postovulation compared with cows with contralateral aCL. Cows that had PSPB increase >21 d postovulation had 4× greater chances of pregnancy loss compared with cows that had PSPB increase on d 20 or 21. The highest quartile of P4 on d 5, but not on d 19 and 20, was associated with reduced time to PSPB increase. Time to PSPB increase appears to be an important measurement to understand reasons for pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows. Increasing P4 utilizing hCG after ovulation did not enhance early pregnancy or reduce pregnancy losses in lactating dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Santos
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - T Minela
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - J Branen
- BioTracking Inc., Moscow, ID 83843
| | - J R Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
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16
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Akköse M. Comparative evaluation of two commercial pregnancy-associated glycoproteins tests for early detection of pregnancy in dairy cattle. Theriogenology 2023; 200:11-17. [PMID: 36738574 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine and compare the diagnostic accuracy of two pregnancy-associated glycoproteins tests (IDEXX on-farm pregnancy test [OFPT] and IDEXX rapid visual pregnancy test [RVPT]) for early pregnancy diagnosis in dairy cattle. Blood samples were collected from Holstein cows (n = 317) by coccygeal venipuncture 28-31 days after artificial insemination (AI). The OFPT and RVPT were performed on the farm within 2 h after blood collection using whole blood or blood serum. Transrectal ultrasonography (USG) was performed for pregnancy diagnosis on day 32 post-AI as a gold standard. One-hundred fourteen cows were diagnosed as pregnant and 203 were determined to be nonpregnant. Furthermore, embryonic mortality was detected in four of the nonpregnant animals, based on fragmented/dispersed embryonic membranes and the absence of heartbeat. Sixteen and 14 false positive results (13 jointly for both tests) were obtained for the RVPT and OFPT, respectively. Three false negative results were obtained for the RVPT. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy for the OFPT were 100%, 93.1%, 89.1%, 100% and 95.6%, and for RVPT were 97.4%, 92.1%, 87.4%, 98.4% and 94.0%, respectively. The ability of both tests to distinguish between pregnant and open cows was very good (AUC of both tests above 0.9). The OFPT and RVPT almost perfectly agreed with each other. According to McNemar's analysis, false positive results have been caused difference between the two pregnancy tests and USG. In conclusion, both the RVPT and OFPT proved to be reliable and practical methods for pregnancy diagnosis 28-31 days after AI in dairy cows. However, the results of both pregnancy tests were affected by the occurrence of embryonic mortality around the time of their employment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Akköse
- Department of Livestock, Dalaman Agricultural Enterprise, General Directorate of Agricultural Enterprises, Dalaman, Muğla, 48770, Türkiye.
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17
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Smith BD, Poliakiwski B, Polanco O, Singleton S, de Melo GD, Muntari M, Oliveira Filho RV, Pohler KG. Decisive points for pregnancy losses in beef cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 35:70-83. [PMID: 36592980 DOI: 10.1071/rd22206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Beef cattle producers rely on each of their cows to produce a marketable calf each year to maintain a sustainable operation. Within the first month of gestation, pregnancy failures have been recorded to be upwards of 40-50%. From fertilisation to birth, there are numerous factors contributing to pregnancy failure. From the beginning of gestation oocyte competence is often a large factor impacting fertility as the dam contributes all mRNA for initial embryo development. Other factors contributing to early embryonic infertility include hormonal concentration and heat stress. After the embryo enters the uterus, it becomes critical for the uterus to be receptive to the developing conceptus. The embryo then begins to elongate and secrete interferon-tau to initiate maternal recognition of pregnancy; a requirement to establish and maintain bovine pregnancies. After a pregnancy completes these steps, placentation actively begins around day 22 of pregnancy and lasts until organogenesis. The fetal phase follows the embryonic phase where disease and/or toxins are often the cause of pregnancy failure at this period. However, fetal mortality has been reported to occur in less than 10% of pregnancies. Understanding of the many factors influencing infertility needs to be further investigated to increase pregnancy success in beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- B D Smith
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - B Poliakiwski
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - O Polanco
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - S Singleton
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - G D de Melo
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - M Muntari
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - R V Oliveira Filho
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - K G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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18
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Domingues RR, Andrade JPN, Cunha TO, Madureira G, Moallem U, Gomez-Leon V, Martins JPN, Wiltbank MC. Is pregnancy loss initiated by embryonic death or luteal regression? Profiles of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins during elevated progesterone and pregnancy loss. JDS COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 4:149-154. [PMID: 36974213 PMCID: PMC10039253 DOI: 10.3168/jdsc.2022-0282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Because progesterone (P4) is essential for pregnancy establishment and maintenance, we investigated the effect of increased concentrations of P4 on embryonic attachment and concentrations of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAG). Additionally, we investigated the relationships among luteal regression, pregnancy loss, and PAG concentrations in cows undergoing pregnancy loss by d 33 of pregnancy. Lactating dairy cows were allocated into control (n = 40) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG; 3,300 IU on d 7 and 13 to promote greater circulating P4; GnRH = d 0; n = 46) groups. Progesterone was measured daily from d 7 to 33, and PAG was measured daily from d 17 to 33; both hormones were also measured on d 47 and 61. An increase in PAG >10% compared with d 17 was considered a marker for pregnancy. The gold standard for pregnancy diagnosis was ultrasound evaluation of embryonic heartbeat on d 33. Statistical analyses were done with PROC MIXED from SAS Institute Inc. Concentrations of P4 were greater from d 8 onward in the hCG group. Concentrations of PAG did not differ between groups from d 17 to 33, suggesting no effect of increased P4 on hastening embryonic attachment and placental development. Nevertheless, PAG was greater in the hCG group on d 47 and 61, suggesting greater placental area or PAG secretory capacity. Pregnancy loss between d 20 and 33 occurred in 24.6% of cows. About 50% of pregnancy loss was due to luteal regression and about 50% was due to conceptus failure; that is, a decrease in PAG in the absence of luteal regression. In conclusion, increased P4 does not hasten embryonic attachment or early placental development but it leads to increased PAG in the second half of the second month of gestation. Additionally, pregnancy loss seems to be initiated by either corpus luteum regression or conceptus failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael R. Domingues
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - Joao Paulo N. Andrade
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - Thiago O. Cunha
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - Guilherme Madureira
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - Uzi Moallem
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion, Israel 50250
| | - Victor Gomez-Leon
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506
| | - Joao Paulo N. Martins
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - Milo C. Wiltbank
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
- Corresponding author
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Barbato O, Menchetti L, Brecchia G, Barile VL. Using Pregnancy-Associated Glycoproteins (PAGs) to Improve Reproductive Management: From Dairy Cows to Other Dairy Livestock. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12162033. [PMID: 36009621 PMCID: PMC9404451 DOI: 10.3390/ani12162033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pregnancy loss is a major cause of infertility in dairy animals, particularly in cattle, which affects the productivity and profitability of farms. Detecting these unsuccessful pregnancies could offer farmers the opportunity to reduce the economic damage caused by pregnancy loss. The determination of proteins secreted by the placenta and related to the presence of a viable conceptus called pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) represents a diagnostic tool to identify pregnant or non-pregnant animals and to predict early pregnancy failures. This review describes the state of the art related to PAGs’ function, pregnancy profile, and use in reproductive management in bovine and other dairy livestock. Abstract Pregnancy success represents a major issue for the economic income of cattle breeders. Early detection of pregnant and non-pregnant animals, as well as the prediction of early pregnancy failure, can influence farm management decisions. Several diagnostic tools for pregnancy are currently available. Among these, pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) have been shown to be useful for identifying the presence of vital embryos and for pregnancy follow-up monitoring. This review presents an overview of the PAGs’ functions, their pregnancy trends, and their use as a tool to improve reproductive management in bovine and other dairy livestock, such as small ruminants and buffalos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olimpia Barbato
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura Menchetti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Gabriele Brecchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Vittoria Lucia Barile
- Research Centre for Animal Production and Aquaculture, Consiglio per la Ricerca in Agricoltura e l’Analisi dell’Economia Agraria (CREA), Via Salaria 31, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
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20
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Performing Early Pregnancy Tests in Milk and Their Effect on Cow Welfare and Reproductive Performance Compared to Rectal Pregnancy Tests 40 to 45 Days Post Insemination. DAIRY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/dairy3030034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The main pregnancy test method for dairy cows is rectal palpation performed around 40–45 days from last insemination. This is an invasive examination that disrupts the cow’s routine, potentially affecting its well-being. We examined the effectiveness of a commercial kit for performing pregnancy tests on milk samples compared to rectal palpation at 28- and 42-days post insemination. Accordingly, the purpose of the current study was to check if performing early pregnancy test instead of rectal palpation would result in better welfare and improvement of the reproductive performance, at least in part, of the cows. At 28 days, we examined the effect of early pregnancy testing on reproductive performance, especially number of days open. At 42 days, we determined the pregnancy test methods’ effects on cow welfare measures and milk production. For the day 28 experiment, cows on one farm were divided into two groups: one milk-tested for pregnancy on 28 to 30 days after insemination, and the other tested by routine veterinary examination (42 to 45 days after insemination). The milk test resulted in a 16-day reduction in days open for cows identified as non-pregnant on day 28 compared to day 42 (rectal examination), potentially improving reproductive performance on the dairy farm. For the day 42 experiment, test effects on cow welfare as seen in pedometer data and milk production were examined on two large dairy farms. Test-day milk production did not differ significantly between milk-tested and rectally palpated groups, but well-being indices of milk-tested cows improved, especially in winter months. The reason for this can be because, in the summer, cows are interrupted due to colling activities. In addition to fewer days open and economic improvement, early milk tests for pregnancy can free up the practitioner for other tasks on the dairy farm.
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Arshad B, Shabir A, Sagheer M, Arshad U, Yousuf MR, Riaz A. Validation of pregnancy associated glycoproteins-based ELISA kits to determine early pregnancy status in lactating Nili-Ravi buffaloes. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:1267-1276. [PMID: 35780291 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the current study was to evaluate pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits utilizing whole blood, serum, or milk samples for diagnosis of early pregnancy status in lactating Nili-Ravi buffaloes. Dairy buffaloes (n = 174) of mixed parity, 4-6 years of age, having mean (± SD) days in milk 165 ± 87, and body condition score of 3.26 ± 0.34 were randomly enrolled in this study. Buffaloes were exposed to penile deviated bulls with 12h intervals for estrus detection during peak breeding season and eventually bred naturally at their respective standing estrus (day 0). Blood and milk samples were collected on days 24, 28, and 35 post-breeding to run a rapid visual pregnancy test® (RVPT), or ELISA-based assay to detect early pregnancy status. Transrectal B-mode ultrasonography was performed to diagnose pregnancy at day 35 post-breeding and used as a gold standard to validate results of RVPT or ELISA-based tests. The RVPT is a visual readout test and had sensitivity (77.9 vs 89.7 vs 93.3%), specificity (77.9 vs 89.7 vs 93.3%), and accuracy (84.5 vs 90.1 vs 94.2%) at days 24, 28, and 35 post-breeding, respectively. The PAGs were assayed using ELISA kits in serum and had sensitivity (77.9 vs 89.7 vs 93.3%), specificity (84.2 vs 87.7 vs 93.9%), and accuracy (82.1 vs 88.4 vs 93.7%) at days 24, 28, and 35 post-breeding, respectively. Similarly, PAGs were also analyzed using ELISA kits in milk samples and had sensitivity (77.6 vs 89.5 vs 95.0%), specificity (89.1 vs 91.9, vs 93.9%), and accuracy (85.1 vs 91.1 vs 94.3%) at days 24, 28, and 35 post-breeding, respectively. Overall, the Kappa values in this study exceeded 0.85 at day 35 post-breeding using RVPT or ELISA-based test kits in serum or milk samples, indicating a high level of agreement between PAGs detection method and gold standard for pregnancy diagnosis. The pregnancy outcomes based on ELISA-based PAGs detection at day ≥ 28 post-breeding had a high negative predictive value, indicating that the probability of incorrectly administering prostaglandins to pregnant buffaloes would be low if these tests were implemented on a commercial dairy herd. Taken together, it is concluded that PAGs-based determination of pregnancy using RVPT or ELISA either in blood, serum, or milk samples, can be used effectively for pregnancy diagnosis at ≥ 28 days post-breeding with more than 90% accuracy in Nili-Ravi buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Arshad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 54000, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Amjad Shabir
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 54000, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Masroor Sagheer
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 54000, Lahore, Pakistan.,Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, 32611, Gainesville, USA
| | - Usman Arshad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 54000, Lahore, Pakistan.,Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, 32611, Gainesville, USA
| | - Muhammad Rizwan Yousuf
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 54000, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Amjad Riaz
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 54000, Lahore, Pakistan
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Middleton E, Minela T, Ahearne M, Arnold H, Santos A, Pursley J. Dairy heifers have an earlier increase in serum pregnancy-specific protein B compared with lactating dairy cows. Is this an indicator of earlier conceptus attachment? JDS COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 3:291-295. [PMID: 36338019 PMCID: PMC9623710 DOI: 10.3168/jdsc.2021-0198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to use within-individual daily increases in circulating pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) to determine time to increase in serum PSPB in nulliparous heifers and multiparous dairy cows following artificial insemination (AI). Weekly cohorts of lactating Holstein cows (n = 56) averaging 122 ± 7 d in milk at AI and nulliparous Holstein heifers (n = 23) averaging 16 ± 0.24 mo old at AI were used in this study. Lactating cows received AI to either Ovsynch (n = 38) or at ~12 h following observed standing estrus (n = 18). All heifers were inseminated ~12 h after observed standing estrus. Blood samples for measurement of PSPB were collected daily from d 15 through d 35 postovulation. Nulliparous heifers had increases in serum PSPB earlier compared with both primiparous and multiparous cows. Day of increase in serum PSPB was defined as the day serum PSPB optical density levels initially increased ≥10% from baseline and continued to increase from baseline of ≥10% the following 2 d. Average PSPB were greater in pregnant heifers compared pregnant cows from d 23 through 29. Early lactation nonpregnant cows maintained greater average optical density of serum PSPB from 15 to 35 d postovulation compared with nonpregnant heifers (n = 38). In summary, fertility differences in heifers versus lactating cows may be due to the differences in timing of increases in serum PSPB. This appears to be one of the first publications that used daily PSPB sampling to investigate possible differences in fertility in heifers versus lactating cows.
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23
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Green JA, Geisert RD, Johnson GA, Spencer TE. Implantation and Placentation in Ruminants. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2022; 234:129-154. [PMID: 34694480 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77360-1_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
In comparison to many other mammalian species, ruminant ungulates have a unique form of placentation. Ruminants initially display an epitheliochorial type of placentation; however, during the period of placental attachment, trophoblast giant binucleate cells (BNC) develop within the chorion to migrate and fuse with the uterine surface epithelium to form syncytial plaques. Binucleate cell migration and fusion continues throughout pregnancy but never appears to breach the basal lamina, beneath the uterine surface or luminal epithelium. Therefore, the semi-invasive type of placentation in ruminants is classified as synepitheliochorial. The endometrium of ruminant species also contains unique specialized aglandular structures termed "caruncles" in which the chorioallantois (cotyledons) interdigitates and forms highly vascularized fetal-maternal "placentomes." This chapter will discuss the current knowledge of early conceptus development during the peri-attachment period, establishment of pregnancy, conceptus attachment, and placentation in ruminant ungulates. The features of placentomes, BNCs, fetomaternal hybrid cells, and multinucleated syncytial plaques of the cotyledonary placenta of ruminant species will be reviewed to highlight the unique form of placentation compared to the placentae of other artiodactyls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Green
- Division of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources, S138 Animal Science Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.
| | - Rodney D Geisert
- Division of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources, S121 Animal Science Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Greg A Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources, S135 Animal Science Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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Ayad A, Derbak H, Besseboua O. Using commercial enzyme immunoassay for measuring pregnancy-associated glycoproteins to diagnose pregnancy in dairy cows under field conditions in Algeria. RUDN JOURNAL OF AGRONOMY AND ANIMAL INDUSTRIES 2021. [DOI: 10.22363/2312-797x-2021-16-2-154-166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present work was to study effectiveness for early pregnancy diagnosis in cattle of the new enzyme immunoassay (EIA) sandwich kit commercially available based on the measurement of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs). 120 Holstein-Friesian cattle of mixed age and parity were comprised from different dairy herds. The pregnant females (n = 68) were diagnosed by ultrasonography at day 35-40 after artificial insemination and confirmed by transrectal exploration at 2-3 months after AI. The non-pregnant females (n = 52) were housed in the absence of males during the experimental period. Blood samples were collected from coccygeal vessels of females into EDTA tubes. The serum was obtained by centrifugation and the serum was stored at - 20 C until assay. The PAG concentrations in pregnant and non-pregnant females were determined in serum by EIA kit. The reproducibility inter- and intra-assay of the PAG-EIA is satisfactory (2.78 and 13.19 %, respectively). The accuracy ( 94.8 %) and the test of parallelism were largely acceptable. No cross-reaction was observed with the different hormones tested at different dilutions. PAG-EIA system gave 100 % sensitivity and negative predictive values. Whereas, specificity and positive predictive value were 91.93 and 71.15 %, respectively. The accuracy of pregnancy diagnosis by PAG-EIA was 87.5 %. In conclusion, the present study shows clearly that the EIA kit can be used to measure PAG in serum cows for the detection of gestation in Algeria. Therefore, this alternative technique could be recommended to replace the radioactive methods in immunoassays to improve the reproductive performances and an efficient tool for reproductive management of dairy cattle.
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Szenci O. Recent Possibilities for the Diagnosis of Early Pregnancy and Embryonic Mortality in Dairy Cows. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061666. [PMID: 34204926 PMCID: PMC8229416 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pregnancy diagnosis plays an essential role in decreasing days open in dairy farms; therefore, it is very important to select an accurate method for diagnosing early pregnancy. Besides traditional pregnancy diagnoses made by rectal palpation of the uterus from 40 to 60 days after AI and measuring the serum or milk progesterone concentration between 18 to 24 days after AI, there are several new possibilities to diagnose early pregnancy in dairy farms. However, it is very important to emphasize that before introducing any new diagnostic test, we need to make sure the accuracy of that particular test to be able to decrease the rate of iatrogenic pregnancy losses caused by prostaglandin or resynchronization treatments. This review focuses on the diagnostic possibilities and limitations of early pregnancy diagnosis in the field. Abstract One of the most recent techniques for the on-farm diagnosis of early pregnancy (EP) in cattle is B-mode ultrasonography. Under field conditions, acceptable results may be achieved with ultrasonography from Days 25 to 30 post-AI. The reliability of the test greatly depends on the frequency of the transducer used, the skill of the examiner, the criterion used for a positive pregnancy diagnosis (PD), and the position of the uterus in the pelvic inlet. Non-pregnant animals can be selected accurately by evaluating blood flow in the corpus luteum around Day 20 after AI, meaning we can substantially improve the reproductive efficiency of our herd. Pregnancy protein assays (PSPB, PAG-1, and PSP60 RIA, commercial ELISA or rapid visual ELISA tests) may provide an alternative method to ultrasonography for determining early pregnancy or late embryonic/early fetal mortality (LEM/EFM) in dairy cows. Although the early pregnancy factor is the earliest specific indicator of fertilization, at present, its detection is entirely dependent on the use of the rosette inhibition test; therefore, its use in the field needs further developments. Recently found biomarkers like interferon-tau stimulated genes or microRNAs may help us diagnose early pregnancy in dairy cows; however, these tests need further developments before their general use in the farms becomes possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ottó Szenci
- Department of Obstetrics and Food Animal Medicine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, H-2225 Üllő-Dóra Major, Hungary
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Krebs T, Kilic I, Mütze K, Kleinhans S, Lücking D, Hennies M, Tetens J. Establishment of a Sandwich-ELISA for simultaneous quantification of bovine pregnancy-associated glycoprotein in serum and milk. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251414. [PMID: 33979386 PMCID: PMC8115853 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (boPAG) are expressed by trophoblast cells in the bovine placenta. The multigene family of boPAG belongs to the group of aspartic proteases. The accumulation and circulation in maternal blood and milk has made boPAG very useful and important for pregnancy diagnosis in cattle. The goal of the present study was to develop and validate a new Sandwich-ELISA which allows the detection of boPAG in maternal serum and whole milk. Therefore, 984 serum and 928 milk samples were collected monthly from 231 Holstein Friesian cows (Bos Taurus) from one week after insemination (p.i.) until six weeks postpartum. The ELISA is able to identify a cow as being pregnant at day 30 p.i. in serum and at day 40 p.i in milk with threshold values of 1.0 ng/ml in serum and 0.0165 ng/ml in milk. The postpartum half-life of boPAG was estimated to be 6.4 days in serum and 7.1 days in milk. The boPAG profile established during pregnancy in serum and milk showed a typical pattern. The amount of boPAG found in milk was 1.5 % of the amount of boPAG present in serum. In conclusion, a Sandwich-ELISA has been developed to quantify boPAG in serum and in whole milk simultaneously with the same test procedure. This is time saving for farmers and more efficient for laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Krebs
- Department of Animal Sciences, Georg-August-University, Goettingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Isabel Kilic
- Department of Animal Sciences, Georg-August-University, Goettingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Katja Mütze
- Hessischer Verband für Leistungs- und Qualitätsprüfungen in der Tierzucht e.V., Alsfeld, Hesse, Germany
| | - Sonja Kleinhans
- Hessischer Verband für Leistungs- und Qualitätsprüfungen in der Tierzucht e.V., Alsfeld, Hesse, Germany
| | - Daniel Lücking
- TECOdevelopment GmbH, Rheinbach, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
| | - Mark Hennies
- TECOdevelopment GmbH, Rheinbach, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
| | - Jens Tetens
- Department of Animal Sciences, Georg-August-University, Goettingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
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Nanas I, Chouzouris TM, Dovolou E, Dadouli K, Stamperna K, Kateri I, Barbagianni M, Amiridis GS. Early embryo losses, progesterone and pregnancy associated glycoproteins levels during summer heat stress in dairy cows. J Therm Biol 2021; 98:102951. [PMID: 34016368 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2021.102951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objectives of this study were to characterize the effects of heat stress on pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAG) and progesterone and its involvement in embryo survival. In trial 1, blood samples collected from days 29 to 36 post insemination were examined for the comparison of PAG concentrations between winter (n = 3721) and summer (n = 2388). In trial 2, embryo losses were assessed in winter (n = 144) and in summer (n = 133), in days 31 or 32 of pregnancy. Pregnancy diagnosis was carried out by ultrasonography on days 24 or 25, and it was repeated a week later; in the second occasion PAG concentration was also determined. In trial 3 the PAG and progesterone concentrations were assessed in days 33 to 36 in winter and summer. In trial 1 PAG levels did not differ between winter and summer, the conception rate and the proportion of uncertain pregnancies were higher in winter than summer. The likelihood of pregnancy was 10 to 15% higher in winter. In trial 2, the embryo death rate was higher in summer, but the PAG levels of cows that had embryo loss in summer were higher than those in winter. In both seasons, lower PAG levels were associated with higher risk of pregnancy loss, while embryo death was five times more likely to occur in summer than in winter and lower PAG concentrations were positively associated with higher risk of embryo loss. In trial 3, mean PAG levels were higher and of progesterone were lower during the summer than during the winter. We infer that despite the devastating effects of heat stress on cows' fertility, those early embryos that survive under continuous heat stress can form a well-functioning placenta; hence, the high embryo mortality rate observed during the summer months could be mainly attributed to luteal insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Nanas
- Clinic of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Thomas-Markos Chouzouris
- Clinic of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Eleni Dovolou
- Clinic of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece; Laboratory of Reproduction, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Thessaly, Greece
| | - Katerina Dadouli
- Clinic of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece; Laboratory of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantina Stamperna
- Clinic of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Ilektra Kateri
- Clinic of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Mariana Barbagianni
- Clinic of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - Georgios S Amiridis
- Clinic of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece.
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28
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Peixoto PM, Hubner AM, Junior WMC, Cunha LL, Garrett EF, Pohler KG, Dias NW, Mercadante VRG, Canisso IF, Lima FS. Characterization of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins and progesterone as a predictor of twins and conceptus loss in high-risk-pregnancy Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:5034-5046. [PMID: 33612217 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-19334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to characterize plasma concentrations of pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) and progesterone (P4) as predictors of twins and pregnancy loss in Holstein cows with high-risk pregnancies. High-risk pregnancy was characterized using transrectal ultrasonography 37 d after artificial insemination (AI) based on the following criteria: small embryo size <15 mm, n = 10), slow heartbeat (<60 beats per minute, n = 11), and extra-amniotic membrane (additional amniotic membrane, n = 3). A cohort of twins (n = 41) diagnosed at d 37 post-AI was also enrolled. Each high-risk and twin pregnancy cow was paired with a cow of the same parity carrying a normal singleton at d 37 post-AI (control, n = 65). Blood samples were collected to measure PAG and P4 at d 37, 44, and 51 post-AI. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA, logistic regression, and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve with JMP software (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). Pregnancy loss at d 51 post-AI was greater in high-risk pregnancies than in controls and twins (control = 1.5%; high-risk = 87.5%; twins = 12.2%). Concentration of PAG at d 37 post-AI did not differ among groups (control = 5.3 ± 0.7; high-risk = 4.8 ± 1.2; twins = 4.0 ± 0.9 ng/mL). Concentration of P4 at d 37 post-AI was greater in twins than in high-risk pregnancies and control, and lesser in high-risk pregnancies than in controls (control = 7.0 ± 0.3; high-risk = 5.9 ± 0.4; twins = 8.4 ± 0.3 ng/mL). Regression and ROC analysis for PAG at d 37 post-AI did not find a threshold to predict pregnancy loss or twins. Regression and ROC analysis for P4 at d 37 post-AI found that a threshold of 6.5 ng/mL predicted pregnancy loss with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.64, and a threshold of 7.2 ng/mL predicted twins with AUC of 0.71. In summary, pregnancy loss and twins were predicted with only moderate accuracy by P4 concentration at d 37 post-AI, and the variability in PAG concentrations at d 37 post-AI was not sufficient to generate a threshold to predict pregnancy loss and twins in Holstein lactating cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Peixoto
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802
| | - A M Hubner
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802
| | - W M C Junior
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802
| | - L L Cunha
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802
| | - E F Garrett
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802
| | - K G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843
| | - N W Dias
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg 24061
| | - V R G Mercadante
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg 24061
| | - I F Canisso
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802
| | - F S Lima
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802; Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis 95616.
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Meziane R, Boughris F, Benhadid M, Niar A, Mamache B, Meziane T. Comparative evaluation of two methods of pregnancy diagnosis in dairy cattle in the East of Algeria: proteins associated with pregnancy and ultrasonography. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2019.1592348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rahla Meziane
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory Environment, Health and Animal Production (ESPA), University of Batna1, Batna, Algeria
| | | | | | - Abdelatif Niar
- Laboratory of Animal Farm Reproduction,National Institute of Veterinary Sciences, Ibn Khaldoun University of Tiaret, Tiaret, Algeria
| | - Bakir Mamache
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory Environment, Health and Animal Production (ESPA), University of Batna1, Batna, Algeria
| | - Toufik Meziane
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory Environment, Health and Animal Production (ESPA), University of Batna1, Batna, Algeria
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Madureira AML, Poole RK, Burnett TA, Guida TG, Edwards JL, Schrick FN, Vasconcelos JLM, Cerri RLA, Pohler KG. Size and position of the reproductive tract impacts fertility outcomes and pregnancy losses in lactating dairy cows. Theriogenology 2020; 158:66-74. [PMID: 32932186 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
There are multiple factors that contribute to reduced fertility in lactating dairy cows. Recently, a reproductive tract size and position score (SPS) system was developed as a management tool to identify dairy cows with decreased fertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the SPS on fertility outcomes such as ovulation failure, pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI), concentration of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs), and pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows. Primiparous and multiparous lactating Holstein cows (n = 869) were enrolled at two locations. Location 1 (Loc. 1) in Minas Gerais, Brazil (n = 613) and location 2 (Loc. 2) in Agassiz, British Columbia, Canada (n = 256). At the time of AI (d 0), cows were classified as SPS (small [SPS1], medium [SPS2], or large [SPS3] sized reproductive tract) and ovulation failure was determined at 48 h and 7 d post-AI via ultrasonography (Loc. 2 only). Blood samples were collected on d 24 and 31 of gestation for quantification of PAGs and pregnancy diagnosis was performed via ultrasonography at d 31 and 60 post-AI (Loc. 1) and at d 31 ± 3 and 60 ± 3 post-AI (Loc. 2). Cows diagnosed pregnant at d 31 post-AI but not pregnant at d 60 were defined to have undergone late embryonic pregnancy loss. Parity was found to impact SPS (P < 0.01), as primiparous cows had a higher frequency of SPS1 and lower frequency of SPS3 when compared with multiparous cows (SPS1: 42.6 vs. 15.0%; SPS3: 7.0 vs. 22.0%, respectively). Cows classified as SPS3 had greater ovulation failure at 48 h (P = 0.04) and 7 d post-AI (P = 0.05). Cows classified as SPS1 had greater P/AI when compared to SPS2 and SPS3 (45.9 ± 3.3 vs. 37.4 ± 2.6 and 29.1 ± 3.5%, respectively; P = 0.004). There was no interaction between parity and SPS on P/AI. Pregnancy loss between 31 and 60 d post-AI was increased in cows classified as SPS3 compared to SPS2 and SPS1 (24.3 ± 0.05 vs. 11.6 ± 0.02 and 9.4 ± 0.02%, respectively; P = 0.04). Cows classified as SPS1 and SPS2 had greater concentrations of PAGs at 31 d post-AI when compared to SPS3 at both Loc.1 (P < 0.01) and Loc. 2 (P < 0.01). There was no interaction between SPS and pregnancy loss on PAGs at 24 and 31 d post- AI for either Loc. 1 (P = 0.75 and P = 0.76, respectively) or Loc. 2 (P = 0.61 and P = 0.81, respectively). In conclusion, cows that were classified as SPS3 had greater ovulation failure, reduced P/AI, similar concentrations of PAG on d 24, but decreased on d 31, and a greater incidence of pregnancy loss. Thus, size and position of the reproductive tract is associated with fertility and this scoring system could be used to make reproductive management decisions on dairy operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M L Madureira
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - R K Poole
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - T A Burnett
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - T G Guida
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, 18168-000, Brazil
| | - J L Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - F N Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, 18168-000, Brazil
| | - R L A Cerri
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - K G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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De Carolis M, Barbato O, Acuti G, Trabalza-Marinucci M, Melo de Sousa N, Canali C, Moscati L. Plasmatic Profile of Pregnancy-Associated Glycoprotein (PAG) during Gestation and Postpartum in Sarda and Lacaune Sheep Determined with Two Radioimmunoassay Systems. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091502. [PMID: 32854377 PMCID: PMC7552302 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Nowadays the need to optimize and maximize the productivity of dairy sheep leads farmers to plan lambing in specific periods in order to avoid economic loss due to nonproductive animals. The goal is to diagnose pregnancy at early gestation in order to minimize the costs of unproductive animals and to properly formulate rations for the energy requirements of gestating or lactating animals at the same time. Moreover, early pregnancy diagnosis, as well as the possibility of distinguishing between single and multiple gestations, enables farmers to plan the management of lambing well in advance thus minimizing manpower requirements. This study showed, for the first time, the plasmatic profile of PAG (pregnancy-associated glycoproteins) in Sarda and Lacaune ewes during gestation and the postpartum period using two different radioimmune assay (RIA) systems, thus enhancing our knowledge regarding PAG concentrations in domestic ruminants. Moreover, it showed that for both breeds these RIA systems are capable of distinguishing pregnant from nonpregnant ewes starting from day 18 of gestation. Furthermore, the rapid disappearance of PAG concentration following lambing did not require the use of a cut-off limit in postpartum animals as a means for detecting a new pregnancy. Abstract This study was carried out to determine ovine pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (oPAG) levels in the plasma of Sarda and Lacaune ewes throughout gestation and in the first month postpartum, using two heterologous radioimmunoassays (RIA-706 and RIA-srPool) and to study the correlations between PAG levels and fetal gender and number. On Day 18 of pregnancy, PAG concentrations were detected in 90.1% and 80.8% of Sarda pregnant ewes with RIA-706 and RIA-srPool, respectively; and in 90% and in 75% of Lacaune pregnant ewes with RIA-706 and RIA-srPool, respectively. From Day 30, PAG concentrations were detected in all pregnant ewes by using both RIA methods. In the postpartum period, the PAG concentrations in Sarda ewes decreased rapidly reaching minimal levels (<1 ng/mL) on day 28 using both RIA-706 and RIA-srPool. In Lacaune ewes, PAG-706 levels were higher than PAG-srPool from parturition until the last day of observation (Day 28 postpartum). It was also observed that mean concentrations were higher in multiple than in single pregnancies in Sarda and Lacaune ewes. Moreover, due to the rapid disappearance of PAG concentration following lambing, a cut-off limit in postpartum animals was not required as a means for detecting a new pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina De Carolis
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (M.D.C.); (G.A.); (M.T.-M.); (C.C.)
| | - Olimpia Barbato
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (M.D.C.); (G.A.); (M.T.-M.); (C.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-075-585-7640; Fax: +39-075-585-7638
| | - Gabriele Acuti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (M.D.C.); (G.A.); (M.T.-M.); (C.C.)
| | - Massimo Trabalza-Marinucci
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (M.D.C.); (G.A.); (M.T.-M.); (C.C.)
| | - Noelita Melo de Sousa
- Laboratory of Animal Endocrinology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, 4000 Liege, Belgium;
| | - Claudio Canali
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy; (M.D.C.); (G.A.); (M.T.-M.); (C.C.)
| | - Livia Moscati
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche, via G. Salvemini 1, 06126 Perugia, Italy;
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Noya A, Casasús I, Rodríguez-Sánchez JA, Ferrer J, Sanz A. A negative energy balance during the peri-implantational period reduces dam IGF-1 but does not alter progesterone or pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) or fertility in suckled cows. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2020; 72:106418. [PMID: 31958645 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2019.106418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a negative energy balance during the first third of gestation on metabolic, endocrine, and pregnancy recognition parameters in 2 beef cattle breeds adapted to semiextensive conditions. Seventy-five lactating Parda de Montaña and 40 Pirenaica multiparous cows rearing calves were synchronized and timed artificial inseminated (TAI) on day 76 postpartum. Cows were assigned to one of 2 diets (CONTROL or SUBNUT; 100% or 65% of their requirements supplied) until day 82 of gestation. Pregnancy was diagnosed 37 d post-TAI using ultrasound. Blood samples were obtained to determine metabolic (glucose, NEFA, β-hydroxybutyrate, cholesterol, and urea) and endocrine (IGF-1) status throughout the first third of gestation and to determine the concentrations of progesterone and pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) in the peri-implantational period. Undernutrition affected both cow and calf performance. The CONTROL cows maintained BCS and BW, whereas SUBNUT cows had negative daily gains. The CONTROL lactating calves had higher BW gains than SUBNUT. These negative effects were more evident in the Pirenaica breed, which was more sensitive to undernutrition. The negative energy balance was reflected in the cows' metabolic profiles, with higher NEFA values and lower IGF-1 concentrations in SUBNUT cows. However, undernutrition did not affect dam pregnancy/TAI or pregnancy recognition and maintenance, confirming that during periods of undernourishment pregnant dams prioritize the allocation of dietary energy toward reproductive functions. Progesterone concentration on day 21 post-TAI (with a 4.8 ng/mL cut-off value) and PSPB on day 26 post-TAI (with a 0.57 ng/mL cut-off value) were determined as the earliest indicators to accurately establish dam pregnancy status, regardless of breed or nutrition treatment. In summary, early undernutrition affected cow performance and metabolic profiles and impaired lactating calf growth, but did not affect progesterone or PSPB concentrations or the pregnancy/TAI rate in suckled cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Noya
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria (CITA) de Aragón, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Avenida Montañana 930, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - I Casasús
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria (CITA) de Aragón, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Avenida Montañana 930, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - J A Rodríguez-Sánchez
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria (CITA) de Aragón, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Avenida Montañana 930, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - J Ferrer
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria (CITA) de Aragón, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Avenida Montañana 930, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - A Sanz
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria (CITA) de Aragón, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Avenida Montañana 930, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain.
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Ott TL. Immunological detection of pregnancy: Evidence for systemic immune modulation during early pregnancy in ruminants. Theriogenology 2020; 150:498-503. [PMID: 32331860 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian pregnancy creates unique challenges for immune systems highly evolved to detect and eliminate invading pathogens. Recognition of the challenges created by gestating a semi-allogeneic fetus evolved from the discipline of transplantation biology and were informed by studies on the unique natural parabiosis that occurs when female calves are gestated with twin male fetuses. These pregnancies typically result in an intersex female termed a freemartin, which revealed insights into development of the male and female reproductive tracts. However, they also uncovered important clues on immune tolerance with wide-ranging implications to reproductive biology, transplantation biology and autoimmune disease. Many studies focused on identifying mechanisms through which the fetus evades maternal immune detection and elimination. These included studies characterizing immune interactions between the fetus and mother at the nourishing interface of the placenta and uterine endometrium. This immunological forbearance only occurs under high concentrations of circulating progesterone. Beyond the requirement for progesterone, there has been considerable progress towards understanding the effects of conceptus signals on maternal immune function. One common theme is that pregnancy induces a T helper 2 immune bias as shown in several mammalian species, including domestic ruminants. However, a growing body of evidence shows that the fetus not only evades, but also provokes immune responses locally in the uterus and in peripheral tissues. This is perhaps most dramatically illustrated by domestic ruminants where the conceptus secretes a unique interferon in the opening salvo of hormonal communication with the maternal immune system. The role of interferon tau in regulating expression of genes of the innate immune system in the uterus has been extensively studied. More recently, it was determined that these same genes are also induced in peripheral immune cells and other tissues throughout the body. In addition to interferon tau and progesterone, pregnancy associate glycoproteins and chaperonin 10 (aka Early Pregnancy Factor) are implicated in altering immune function both locally and systemically during pregnancy. While it is tempting to speculate that this activation of innate immunity is designed to counteract selective immunosuppression, knowledge of the importance of local and systemic immune activation to the success of pregnancy remains incomplete. This area remains fertile ground for developing better approaches to diagnose and treat infertility in domestic farm species and humans alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Troy L Ott
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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Thompson DP, Crouse JA, McDonough TJ, Barboza PS, Jaques S. Acute Thermal and Stress Response in Moose to Chemical Immobilization. J Wildl Manage 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.21871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P. Thompson
- Alaska Department of Fish and GameKenai Moose Research Center 43961 Kalifornsky Beach Road Suite B Soldotna AK 99669 USA
| | - John A. Crouse
- Alaska Department of Fish and GameKenai Moose Research Center 43961 Kalifornsky Beach Road Suite B Soldotna AK 99669 USA
| | | | - Perry S. Barboza
- Department of Wildlife and Fisheries SciencesTexas A&M University Room 274, Wildlife, Fisheries and Ecological Sciences Building, TAMU 2258 Building 1537, 534 John Kimbrough Boulevard College Station TX 77843 USA
| | - Scott Jaques
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic LaboratoryTexas A&M University 483 Agronomy Road College Station TX 77840 USA
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Gershoni M, Ezra E, Weller JI. Genetic and genomic analysis of long insemination interval in Israeli dairy cattle as an indicator of early abortions. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:4495-4509. [PMID: 32113774 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
One of the causes of observed low fertility is embryo loss after fertilization. Previous findings suggested that more than half of fertilizations result in embryo loss before pregnancy is detected. We proposed reinsemination between 49 and 100 d after the first insemination as an indicator trait for early abortion (EA) in dairy cattle based on the mean estrus interval of 21 d. This trait was compared with conception rate from first insemination and conception status, computed as the inverse of the number of inseminations to conception. Animal model variance components were estimated by REML, including parents and grandparents of cows with records. First-parity heritability for first insemination conception rate was 3%. In the multitrait analysis of parities 1 to 3 for putative EA, heritabilities ranged from 8.9% for first parity to 10.4% for second parity. All genetic correlations were >0.9, whereas all environmental correlations were <0.12. The variance component for the service sire effect for putative EA rate was less than half the variance component for conception rate. Thus, genetic control of the 2 traits is clearly different, and analysis of EA rate by a single-trait animal model is justified. Genetic evaluation for putative EA was computed using this model, including all first- through third-parity cows with freshening dates from January 1, 1985, through December 31, 2016, that either became pregnant on first insemination or were reinseminated between 49 and 100 d after the first insemination. All known parents and grandparents of cows with records were included in the analysis. The regression of the breeding value for non-abortion rate on the cows' birth year was 0.083%/yr. The genetic correlation between first-parity EA and conception status was 0.995. The genetic correlations between first-parity EA and milk, fat, and protein production were all negative, whereas the genetic correlation between EA and herd life was 0.33. Inclusion of putative EA in the selection index instead of conception status resulted in 10 to 20% greater genetic gain for both fertility traits. In a genome-wide association study based on 1,200 dairy bulls with reliabilities >50% for abortion rate genotyped for 41,000 markers, 6 markers were found with nominal probabilities of <10-12 to reject the null hypothesis of no effect on EA rate. The markers with the lowest probabilities for EA rate were also included among the markers with the lowest probabilities for female fertility, but not vice versa. The marker explaining the most variance for abortion rate is located within the ABCA9 gene, which is found within an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) genes cluster. The ABC family is the major class of primary active transporters in the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moran Gershoni
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, the Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Ephraim Ezra
- Israeli Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea Industrial Park 3088900, Israel
| | - Joel Ira Weller
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, the Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel; Israeli Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea Industrial Park 3088900, Israel.
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Madureira AML, Pohler KG, Guida TG, Wagner SE, Cerri RLA, Vasconcelos JLM. Association of concentrations of beta-carotene in plasma on pregnancy per artificial insemination and pregnancy loss in lactating Holstein cows. Theriogenology 2019; 142:216-221. [PMID: 31622852 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the association of beta-carotene concentration in plasma at the moment of artificial insemination (AI) on pregnancy/AI in lactating Holstein cows. A total of 399 events from 364 lactating Holstein cows were enrolled in the trial (143 primiparous and 221 multiparous). All cows were assigned to a timed AI protocol based on estradiol and progesterone. Blood samples were collected at the moment of AI and at 24 and 31d post-AI (samples on 31 d post-AI were collected only from cows that were diagnosed pregnant). The BCS were recorded at the time of AI. Plasma beta-carotene was quantified from blood samples taken at the time of AI using a single step denaturation and extraction into a solvent, followed by measurement using a portable spectrophotometer. Pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAG) were analyzed in blood samples taken at 24 and 31 d post-AI of pregnant cows. Milk production was collected for the entire experimental period. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed by ultrasound 31 and 60 d post-AI. Data was analyzed using the MIXED and GLIMMIX procedures of SAS. Cows classified as thin (<2.75) tended to have lower concentration of beta-carotene at AI when compared with those classified as Moderate (≥3.00; 3.8 ± 0.1 vs. 4.3 ± 0.1 μg/mL; P = 0.09). Concentration of beta-carotene were greater in multiparous compared with primiparous (P < 0.01). There was no correlation between concentration of beta-carotene and milk production (r = 0.04; P = 0.10). When plasma beta-carotene was categorized in quartiles, cows in the 1st quartile had lower pregnancy/AI and higher pregnancy losses when compared with cows that were in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th quartile (pregnancy/AI = 19.2 ± 4.5, 33.7 ± 4.7, 36.9 ± 5.0 and 39.8 ± 5.4%, respectively; P = 0.05; pregnancy losses = 41.9 ± 4.8, 20.4 ± 3.7, 22.1 ± 4.1, and 15.7 ± 4.2%, respectively; P < 0.05). There was no association between concentrations of beta-carotene at AI and PAG at 24 d post-AI (P = 0.60). Cows with greater concentrations of beta-carotene at AI were more likely to have greater concentrations of PAG at 31 d post-AI (P < 0.01). In conclusion, the concentration of beta-carotene at AI was affected by BCS and parity. Cows with higher concentrations of plasma beta-carotene at AI had greater pregnancy/AI, lower pregnancy losses and greater concentrations of PAG at d 31 post-AI, suggesting it may be associated with placental function in lactating dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M L Madureira
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - K G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - T G Guida
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, 18168-000, Brazil
| | - S E Wagner
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - R L A Cerri
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, 18168-000, Brazil.
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Ealy AD, Seekford ZK. Symposium review: Predicting pregnancy loss in dairy cattle. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:11798-11804. [PMID: 31587904 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Several tools exist to diagnose pregnancy in dairy cattle. However, substantial pregnancy loss occurs within the first 60 d of gestation in cattle, and these losses have a profound adverse economic impact on the dairy and beef cattle industries. Detecting these impending pregnancy losses could offer producers an opportunity to reduce costs associated with this source of reproductive inefficiency. Several of the pregnancy diagnostic tools currently available and new technologies are being examined for their ability to predict pregnancies at risk for failing in early pregnancy. This review provides a synopsis of work undertaken recently to predict pregnancy losses in cattle. Currently, opportunities to predict pregnancy loss include (1) using transrectal ultrasonography to detect loss of the fetal heartbeat, floating debris within the placental fluids, and reductions in fetal size; (2) observing reductions in circulating progesterone concentrations; (3) detecting reductions in concentrations of circulating placental products; namely, pregnancy-associated glycoproteins and microRNAs; and (4) detecting reductions in the early pregnancy-dependent increase in interferon-stimulatory gene expression in peripheral blood leukocytes. An achievable goal may be to identify markers of embryo mortality so that researchers and clinicians can focus their efforts on developing intervention strategies for cows identified to be at risk for pregnancy failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan D Ealy
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg 24061.
| | - Zachary K Seekford
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg 24061
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Filho RVO, Franco GA, Reese ST, Dantas FG, Fontes PLP, Cooke RF, Rhinehart JD, Thompson KW, Pohler KG. Using pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAG) for pregnancy detection at day 24 of gestation in beef cattle. Theriogenology 2019; 141:128-133. [PMID: 31539641 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this experiment was to determine if circulating concentrations of pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAG) on day 24 of gestation can be utilized to diagnose pregnancy and embryo viability in beef cattle. Postpartum beef cows (n = 677) and heifers (n = 127) were exposed to a 7-day CO-Synch + CIDR estrus synchronization protocol followed by fixed-time AI (FTAI) on day 0. Blood samples were collected at day 24 after TAI to assess circulating concentrations of PAG utilizing an in-house ELISA. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed 30 and 100 days after FTAI via transrectal ultrasonography. Mean circulating PAG concentration at day 24 differed (P < 0.001) between animals diagnosed pregnant and non-pregnant at day 30 (1.69 ± 0.10 ng/mL vs 0.30 ng/mL ± 0.07 ng/mL; mean ± SEM; respectively). Pregnant heifers had increased PAG concentration at day 24 compared with pregnant cows (P < 0.01; 3.29 ± 0.36 ng/mL vs 1.39 ± 0.10 ng/mL, respectively). Based on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, serum concentration of PAG at day 24 ≥ 0.33 ng/mL in cows and ≥0.54 ng/mL in heifers was 95% accurate at determining pregnancy status at day 30. Heifers that experienced late embryonic mortality between day 30 and 100 of gestation had decreased circulating concentrations of PAG on day 24 (2.02 ng/mL ± 0.73) compared with heifers that maintained an embryo until day 100 (3.69 ng/mL ± 0.39; P = 0.02). However, there was no difference in day 24 PAG concentration (P = 0.39) between cows that maintained or lost a pregnancy (1.31 ng/mL ± 0.25 vs 0.92 ng/ml ± 0.50). In summary, circulating PAG concentration on day 24 of gestation may be a useful marker for early pregnancy detection in beef cattle, and might be a potential marker for predicting embryonic loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- R V Oliveira Filho
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77845, USA
| | - G A Franco
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77845, USA
| | - S T Reese
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77845, USA
| | - F G Dantas
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - P L P Fontes
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77845, USA
| | - R F Cooke
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77845, USA
| | - J D Rhinehart
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - K W Thompson
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - K G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77845, USA.
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Thompson DP, Barboza PS, Crouse JA, McDonough TJ, Badajos OH, Herberg AM. Body temperature patterns vary with day, season, and body condition of moose (Alces alces). J Mammal 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyz119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Variation in core body temperature of mammals is a result of endogenous regulation of heat from metabolism and the environment, which is affected by body size and life history. We studied moose (Alces alces) in Alaska to examine the effects of endogenous and exogenous factors on core body temperature at seasonal and daily time scales. We used a modified vaginal implant transmitter to record core body temperature in adult female moose at 5-min intervals for up to 1 year. Core body temperature in moose showed a seasonal fluctuation, with a greater daily mean core body temperature during the summer (38.2°C, 95% CI = 38.1–38.3°C) than during the winter (37.7°C, 95% CI = 37.6–37.8°C). Daily change in core body temperature was greater in summer (0.92°C, 95% CI = 0.87–0.97°C) than in winter (0.58°C, 95% CI = 0.53–0.63°C). During winter, core body temperature was lower and more variable as body fat decreased among female moose. Ambient temperature and vapor pressure accounted for a large amount of the residual variation (0.06–0.09°C) in core body temperature after accounting for variation attributed to season and individual. Ambient temperature and solar radiation had the greatest effect on the residual variation (0.17–0.20°C) of daily change in core body temperature. Our study suggests that body temperature of adult female moose is influenced by body reserves within seasons and by environmental conditions within days. When studying northern cervids, the influence of season and body condition on daily patterns of body temperature should be considered when evaluating thermal stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Thompson
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Kenai Moose Research Center, Soldotna, AK, USA
- Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Texas A&M University, Wildlife, Fisheries and Ecological Sciences Building, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Perry S Barboza
- Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Texas A&M University, Wildlife, Fisheries and Ecological Sciences Building, College Station, TX, USA
| | - John A Crouse
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Kenai Moose Research Center, Soldotna, AK, USA
| | | | | | - Andrew M Herberg
- Department of Natural Resources Science and Management, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, St. Paul, MN, USA
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Middleton EL, Pursley JR. Short communication: Blood samples before and after embryonic attachment accurately determine non-pregnant lactating dairy cows at 24 d post-artificial insemination using a commercially available assay for pregnancy-specific protein B. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:7570-7575. [PMID: 31178191 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Early pregnancy diagnosis is critical to reproductive success on dairy farms. Reproductive success depends on cows becoming pregnant before 130 d in milk and then maintaining that pregnancy. The earlier non-pregnant cows are identified, the sooner they can be reinseminated, thus reducing days to pregnancy. Assays for pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) and pregnancy-associated glycoproteins can be used to diagnose pregnancy >28 d post-artificial insemination (AI) in lactating cows. The objective of this study was to determine whether percentage change in serum levels of PSPB within cow from d 17 to 24 can be used to identify non-pregnant cows using a commercially available assay. This study was performed on a large commercial dairy. Blood samples were taken at d 17 and 24 post-AI. The d 17 sample served as a baseline based on previous data. Cows with a 10% increase in serum PSPB levels from d 17 to 24 were considered pregnant. Lactating dairy cows (n = 206; 39% primiparous and 61% multiparous) were synchronized using G6G-Ovsynch. The PSPB diagnosis was compared with the herd veterinarian's diagnosis via ultrasound on d 34. The sensitivity for a 10% cutoff as a non-pregnant diagnosis was 100%, and the specificity was 93.58%. The positive predictive value was 93.27%, and the negative predictive value was 100%. Low PSPB levels at d 24 were predictive of early pregnancy loss by 60 d post-AI. To our knowledge no other method can diagnose non-pregnancy with 100% accuracy and predict pregnancy loss earlier than 24 d post-AI. Using comparative PSPB samples at d 17 and 24 post-AI provides an accurate non-pregnancy diagnosis earlier than any other pregnancy diagnosing method.
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Affiliation(s)
- E L Middleton
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
| | - J R Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
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Wallace RM, Hart ML, Egen TE, Schmelzle A, Smith MF, Pohler KG, Green JA. Bovine pregnancy associated glycoproteins can alter selected transcripts in bovine endometrial explants. Theriogenology 2019; 131:123-132. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Reese ST, Geary TW, Franco GA, Moraes JGN, Spencer TE, Pohler KG. Pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAGs) and pregnancy loss in high vs sub fertility heifers. Theriogenology 2019; 135:7-12. [PMID: 31185426 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive inefficiency and infertility are major financial burdens to domestic livestock. Variables associated with these reproductive losses during early gestation include contributions from the oocyte, uterus, sperm, embryo and placenta. Bovine pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAG) are produced by the binucleate cells of the ruminant placenta and can be used to diagnose pregnancy. Increased circulating concentrations of PAG early in gestation have been correlated with pregnancy success and decreased concentrations are predictive of impending embryonic mortality in both beef and dairy cattle. The objectives of the current study were to determine whether: 1) heifer fertility status is associated with circulating concentrations of PAG and pregnancy loss; and 2) PAG concentrations within the same animal are repeatable across multiple pregnancies. We hypothesized maternal PAG concentrations would be increased in high fertility compared to subfertile heifers but not repeatable across subsequent pregnancies in the same heifer. Serial embryo transfer (ET; n = 4 rounds) was used to classify predominately Angus heifers (n = 92) as highly fertile (HF = 30; 100% pregnancy success) or subfertile (SF = 62; average = 33%; range = 25-75% pregnancy success) based on day 28 ultrasound diagnosis. Blood samples were collected at both day 28 and 44 for quantification of circulating PAG concentrations by an in house PAG ELISA with antibodies raised against early secreted PAGs. Pregnancy was terminated at day 44 of gestation and heifers were allowed 30 days recovery before synchronization for the next ET. Only heifers that were diagnosed pregnant by ultrasound were used in this study (HF: n = 30, SF: n = 62). Serum concentrations of PAGs were not different between HF (5.90 ± 0.27 ng/mL) and SF (5.56 ± 0.31 ng/mL; P = 0.16) heifers at day 28 of gestation nor was there a difference at day 44 of gestation (P = 0.32). Subfertile heifers had increased pregnancy loss between days 28 and 44 of gestation. Based on odds ratio analysis, SF heifers had a 2.41 times chance to undergo pregnancy loss between day 28-44 compared to HF heifers (P < 0.05). There was no correlation (P > 0.05) in maternal circulating concentrations of PAG between pregnancies on day 28 or 44 of gestation in samples obtained from HF heifers. In summary, circulating concentrations of PAG are not different between HF and SF heifers; however, HF classified heifers have decreased pregnancy loss between days 28 and 44 of gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S T Reese
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - T W Geary
- USDA-ARS, Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory, Miles City, MT, USA
| | - G A Franco
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - J G N Moraes
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - T E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - K G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
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Carvalho PD, Santos VG, Fricke HP, Hernandez LL, Fricke PM. Effect of manipulating progesterone before timed artificial insemination on reproductive and endocrine outcomes in high-producing multiparous Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:7509-7521. [PMID: 31155251 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Our objective was to evaluate the effect of manipulating progesterone (P4) concentrations before timed artificial insemination (TAI) on reproductive and endocrine outcomes in high-producing Holstein cows. Multiparous lactating Holstein cows (n = 80) were synchronized for first TAI using a Double-Ovsynch protocol and were randomly assigned to receive 25 mg of PGF2α 1 d after the first GnRH treatment of the Breeding-Ovsynch protocol that included a once-used P4 insert (low-P4 group) or to receive 2 new P4 inserts during the Breeding-Ovsynch protocol (high-P4 group). Blood samples were collected thrice weekly from -10 to 32 d relative to TAI for all cows and from 32 to 67 d after TAI for pregnant cows and were analyzed for P4 and pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) concentrations. Expression of IFNτ-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) was assessed in blood leukocytes 18 and 20 d after TAI. As expected, P4 concentrations were greater for high-P4 cows than for low-P4 cows from 3 to 8 d before TAI. Incidence of double ovulation was 3-fold greater for low-P4 cows than for high-P4 cows (33 vs. 10%), which resulted in more twin pregnancies 32 d after TAI for low-P4 cows than for high-P4 cows (29 vs. 0%). Low-P4 cows had larger preovulatory follicles at the last GnRH treatment of the Double-Ovsynch protocol and greater P4 concentrations than high-P4 cows after TAI. Relative expression of ISG15 mRNA 18 and 20 d after TAI was greater for low-P4 cows than for high-P4 cows and for pregnant cows than for nonpregnant cows. Overall, PSPB concentrations tended to be greater for low-P4 cows than for high-P4 cows, and pregnant cows had greater P4 concentrations than nonpregnant cows. In summary, cows with low P4 before TAI had increased preovulatory follicle diameter, PSPB concentrations, relative expression of ISG15 mRNA 18 and 20 d after TAI, double ovulations, and twinning compared with cows with high P4 before TAI. Increasing P4 before TAI may effectively decrease double ovulation and twinning in high-producing multiparous Holstein cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D Carvalho
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - V G Santos
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - H P Fricke
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - L L Hernandez
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - P M Fricke
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706.
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Zhang J, Yu Q, Qiu W, Li K, Qian L, Zhang X, Liu G. Gold-platinum nanoflowers as a label and as an enzyme mimic for use in highly sensitive lateral flow immunoassays: application to detection of rabbit IgG. Mikrochim Acta 2019; 186:357. [PMID: 31098826 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-019-3464-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The authors describe the preparation of gold-platinum nanoflower (AuPt NFs) and show that they can be simultaneously used as a label and as an enzyme mimic in lateral flow immunoassays (LFIs). The AuPt NFs were prepared by growing Pt nanowires on the surface of gold nanoparticle. The assay involves the capture of target proteins (here: rabbit IgG as a model analyte) by the immobilized capture antibody, and by using AuPt NF-labeled secondary antibody. The AuPt NFs are thus captured by the test zone and produce a characteristic black band for visual detection of the antigen (IgG). The coloration of the test line can be further enhanced by addition of the chromogenic substrate 3-amino-9-ethyl-carbazole which is catalytically oxidized by the captured Pt nanowires on the AuPt NF and produce a red coloration. Quantitative results were obtained by reading the test line intensities with a portable strip reader. The LFI has a 5 pg mL-1 detection limit for IgG under optimized experimental conditions. This is 100 times lower than that of the conventional AuNP-based LFI. Conceivably, this assay has a wide scope in that it may be applied to numerous other targets for which appropriate antibodies are available. Graphical abstract Gold-platinum nanoflowers are used as a label and as an enzyme mimic in a highly sensitive lateral flow immunoassay for IgG. The detection limit of gold-platinum nanoflower-based lateral flow assay is 100 times lower than that of the conventional gold nanopaticle-based lateral flow assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Science, School of Life and Health Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, 233100, Anhui, China
| | - Qingcai Yu
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Science, School of Life and Health Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, 233100, Anhui, China
| | - Wanwei Qiu
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Science, School of Life and Health Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, 233100, Anhui, China
| | - Kun Li
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Science, School of Life and Health Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, 233100, Anhui, China
| | - Lisheng Qian
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Science, School of Life and Health Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, 233100, Anhui, China.
| | - Xueji Zhang
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Science, School of Life and Health Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, 233100, Anhui, China.
- Research Center for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, University of Science & Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, People's Republic of China.
| | - Guodong Liu
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Science, School of Life and Health Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, 233100, Anhui, China.
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, 58105, USA.
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Ott TL. Symposium review: Immunological detection of the bovine conceptus during early pregnancy. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:3766-3777. [PMID: 30712941 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Infertility and subfertility reduce the economic viability of dairy production. Inflammation reduces conception rates in dairy cattle, but surprisingly little information exists about the populations and the functions of immune cells at the conceptus-maternal interface during the periattachment period in dairy cattle. Early pregnancy is accompanied by immune stimulation at insemination and conceptus secretion of IFN-τ, pregnancy-associated glycoproteins, prostaglandins, and other molecules whose effects on immune function during early pregnancy have not been determined. Our working hypothesis is that pregnancy induces changes in immune cell populations and functions that are biased toward immunological tolerance, tissue remodeling, and angiogenesis. This review summarizes current knowledge, starting with insemination and proceeding through early pregnancy, as this is the period of maximal embryo loss. Results indicated that early pregnancy is accompanied by a marked increase in the proportion of endometrial immune cells expressing markers for natural killer (CD335) cells and cytotoxic T cells (CD8) along with an increase in cells expressing major histocompatibility class II antigens (macrophages and dendritic cells). This is accompanied by increased abundance of mRNA for IL-15, a natural killer growth factor, and IL-10 in the endometrium during early pregnancy. Furthermore, expression of indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase was 15-fold greater in pregnant compared with cyclic heifers at d 17, but then declined by d 20. This enzyme converts tryptophan to kynurenine, which alters immune function by creating a localized tryptophan deficiency and by activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and induction of downstream tolerogenic mediators. Expression of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor is abundant in the bovine uterus, but its temporal and spatial regulation during early pregnancy have not been characterized. Pregnancy is also associated with increased expression of proteins known to inhibit immune activation, including programed cell death ligand-1 (CD274), lymphocyte activation gene-3 (CD223), and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein-4 (CD152). These molecules interact with receptors on antigen-presenting cells and induce lymphocyte tolerance. Current results support the hypothesis that early pregnancy signaling in dairy heifers involves changes in the proportions of immune cells in the endometrium as well as induction of molecules known to mediate tolerance. These changes are likely essential for uterine wall remodeling, placentation, and successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Troy L Ott
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Huck Institutes of the Life Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802.
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Niles AM, Fricke HP, Carvalho PD, Wiltbank MC, Hernandez LL, Fricke PM. Effect of treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin 7 days after artificial insemination or at the time of embryo transfer on reproductive outcomes in nulliparous Holstein heifers. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:2593-2606. [PMID: 30692012 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Our objective was to assess the effect of treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) 7 d after artificial insemination (AI) or at the time of in vitro-fertilized (IVF) embryo transfer on reproductive outcomes, including progesterone (P4), interferon-tau stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB), and pregnancies per AI (P/AI) or pregnancies per embryo transfer (P/ET), in nulliparous Holstein heifers. Heifers in experiment 1 were randomly assigned to receive no treatment (control; n = 129) or 2,000 IU of hCG 7 d after AI to a detected estrus (estrus = experimental d 0; hCG; n = 132). Heifers in experiment 2 were randomly assigned to receive no treatment (control; n = 143) or 2,000 IU of hCG (hCG; n = 148) at transfer of an IVF embryo 7 d after the last GnRH treatment of a 5-d controlled internal drug release-synch protocol (last GnRH = experimental d 0). Blood samples were collected from a subgroup of heifers (experiment 1, n = 82; experiment 2, n = 104) at d 7, 11, 18, 20, 25, 28, and 32, and blood samples from heifers diagnosed pregnant were collected on d 35, 39, 46, 53, 60, and 67. Blood samples were assayed for P4 by RIA and for PSPB by ELISA, and expression of ISG15 was assessed in mRNA isolated from blood leukocytes on d 18 and 20. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and logistic regression using the MIXED and GLIMMIX procedures. In both experiments, treatment with hCG increased P4 concentrations from d 11 to 32; however, treatment did not affect P/AI or P/ET at d 32 or 67, PSPB concentrations from d 11 to 67 of pregnancy, or relative ISG15 mRNA concentrations on d 18 or 20. Heifers diagnosed not pregnant at d 32 in experiment 2 with an extended luteal phase (>20 d) and treated with hCG had greater relative ISG15 mRNA concentrations on d 20 than control heifers. Treatment with hCG did not affect pregnancy loss in experiment 1, whereas heifers treated with hCG at the time of IVF embryo transfer had fewer pregnancy losses from d 32 to 67 than control heifers. We concluded that treatment with 2,000 IU of hCG 7 d after AI or at the time of embryo transfer increased P4 concentrations without affecting P/AI or P/ET in nulliparous Holstein heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Niles
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - H P Fricke
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - P D Carvalho
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - M C Wiltbank
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - L L Hernandez
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - P M Fricke
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706.
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Northrop EJ, Rich JJJ, Rhoades JR, Perry GA. Comparison of two bovine serum pregnancy tests in detection of artificial insemination pregnancies and pregnancy loss in beef cattle. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211179. [PMID: 30673760 PMCID: PMC6344102 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood tests for early detection of pregnancy in cattle based on pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) are commercially available. The objective of these studies were to compare the accuracy of blood tests to transrectal ultrasonography in detecting AI pregnancies, and to compare the accuracy of blood tests in predicting pregnancy loss. Beef cattle from 6 herds were synchronized using a recommended CIDR based protocol (Study 1: n = 460; Study 2: n = 472). Pregnancy status was determined by transrectal ultrasonography between days 28–40 following AI, blood samples were collected at this time. In study 2 a final pregnancy determination was performed at the end of the breeding season to determine pregnancy loss. Each serum sample was examined for PAG concentrations using a microtiter plate reader and/or scored by two technicians blind to pregnancy status and pregnancy loss. For study 1 Cohen’s kappa statistics were calculated to assess the agreement between each test and transrectal ultrasonography. For study 2 data was analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with herd as a random effect, and loss, age, and their interaction included in the model. Agreement was good to very good for each test. There was no difference (P = 0.79) in sensitivity, but a difference (P<0.01) in specificity of the assays (88%, 64%, 87%, 90%) and in the overall percent correct (93%, 84%, 93%, 93%). There was an effect of pregnancy loss (P = 0.04), age (P = 0.0002), and their interaction (P = 0.06) on PAG concentrations. In conclusion both pregnancy tests were accurate at detecting AI pregnancies, and were in very good agreement with transrectal ultrasonography. Both tests detected differences in PAGs among females that maintained and lost pregnancy; however, prediction proved to be difficult as most females were above the threshold and would have been considered pregnant on the day of testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmalee J. Northrop
- Department of Animal Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, United States of America
| | - Jerica J. J. Rich
- Department of Animal Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, United States of America
| | - Jim R. Rhoades
- IDEXX Laboratories, Westbrook, ME, United States of America
| | - George A. Perry
- Department of Animal Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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48
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Hassan M, Arshad U, Bilal M, Sattar A, Avais M, Bollwein H, Ahmad N. Luteal blood flow measured by Doppler ultrasonography during the first three weeks after artificial insemination in pregnant and non-pregnant Bos indicus dairy cows. J Reprod Dev 2018; 65:29-36. [PMID: 30393273 PMCID: PMC6379759 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine if there are differences in luteal size (LS), progesterone (P4), and luteal blood flow (LBF) between pregnant and non-pregnant Bos
indicus dairy cows during the first three weeks after insemination, and whether these parameters are related to each other. Lactating cows (n = 13) of mixed parity with a body
weight of 430 ± 18 kg (mean ± SD), showing regular estrous cycle were used in the study. All cows were artificially inseminated and were classified as pregnant (embryonic heartbeat on day
30; n = 8) or non-pregnant (inter-estrus interval 17 to 21 days, n = 5). In order to compare the LS and LBF after artificial insemination, B-mode and color Doppler ultrasonography of ovaries
were performed on days 4, 5, 6, 7 (first week), 8, 10, 12, 14, (second week), and 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 (third week) in pregnant and non-pregnant cows. Results revealed that the mean LBF
was consistently higher (P < 0.05) during days 7 through 21 in pregnant cows than in non-pregnant cows. The mean LS was higher (P < 0.05) on days 6 and 7, and from day 17 onwards, and
the mean concentration of P4 was higher (P < 0.05) on days 19, 20, and 21 in pregnant cows. In conclusion, LBF is a more sensitive parameter than LS and P4 for detection of differences in
luteal function between pregnant and non-pregnant Bos indicus dairy cows during the first three weeks after AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubbashar Hassan
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan.,Present: Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich CH-8057, Switzerland
| | - Usman Arshad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- Department of Statistics and Computer Science, Faculty of Life Sciences and Business Management, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Sattar
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Avais
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Heinrich Bollwein
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich CH-8057, Switzerland
| | - Nasim Ahmad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
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Wiedemann I, Krebs T, Momberg N, Knorr C, Tetens J. mRNA expression profiling in cotyledons reveals significant up-regulation of the two bovine pregnancy-associated glycoprotein genes boPAG-8 and boPAG-11 in early gestation. Vet Med Sci 2018; 4:341-350. [PMID: 30265452 PMCID: PMC6236128 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The multigene family of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) belongs to a group of aspartic proteases that are exclusively expressed by trophoblast cells in the placenta of even-toed ungulates. In Bovidae, 22 different PAG genes (boPAGs) with a wide range of temporal and spatial expression- and glycosylation patterns have been reported to date. In this study we describe the mRNA expression patterns using real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for selected modern (boPAG-1, -9, -21) and ancient bovine PAGs (boPAG-2, -8, -10, -11, -12) in cotyledonary tissue. The highest mean expression was detected in boPAG-8 and lowest in boPAG-10 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, boPAG-8 and -11 were significantly greater expressed in early gestation compared with later pregnancy stages. The characterization of boPAG mRNA-expression levels gives important insights for further protein analyses which will be valuable information for the development of new pregnancy detection systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Wiedemann
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Tony Krebs
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Niklas Momberg
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Knorr
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Jens Tetens
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
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50
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Vailes MT, McCoski SR, Wooldridge LK, Reese ST, Pohler KG, Roper DA, Mercadante VR, Ealy AD. Post-transfer outcomes in cultured bovine embryos supplemented with epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor 2, and insulin-like growth factor 1. Theriogenology 2018; 124:1-8. [PMID: 30317067 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
This work examined the downstream fetal and placental outcomes of introducing a cocktail of uterine-derived growth factors during bovine embryo culture. Abattoir-derived bovine oocytes were matured and fertilized in vitro. On day 4 post-fertilization, ≥ 8-cell embryos were harvested, pooled and exposed to an embryokine mix, termed EFI, which contained recombinant human epidermal growth factor (10 ng/ml), bovine fibroblast growth factor-2 (10 ng/ml) and human insulin-like growth factor 1 (50 ng/ml) or to a carrier-only control treatment (CON). On day 7, individual, transfer-quality embryos were transferred to recipients. Timed ovulation was completed in mature, non-suckled commercial beef cows. Cows either were artificial inseminated (AI) or received an embryo (ET) on day 7 post-estrus (n = 23-31 cows/treatment over 4 replicate studies). The percentage of grade 1 and 2 morulae and blastocysts was greater (P < 0.05) for EFI-treated embryos than CON. The percentage of pregnant cows diagnosed by transrectal ultrasonography did not differ among the AI and ET groups on days 28, 42 and 56 post-estrus. There also were no differences in the ratio of male to female fetuses determined on day 60 post-estrus by transrectal ultrasonography. On day 21 post-estrus, the relative abundance of three interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) transcripts in peripheral leukocytes were not different based on AI/ET group or the sex of the conceptus. Circulating pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) concentrations differed (P < 0.05) among days. Also, a difference in PAG concentrations (P < 0.05) were detected between male and female pregnancies in the CON-ET group but not in the AI or EFI-ET groups. Crown-rump length was not affected by AI/ET group on day 42 but were less (P < 0.05) in the CON and EFI-ET groups than the AI group on day 56. These findings implicate EFI supplementation as a means for improving transferable embryo production in a bovine IVP system, but it is not clear if this treatment improves embryo competency after ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- McCauley T Vailes
- Department of Animal & Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Sarah R McCoski
- Department of Animal & Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Lydia K Wooldridge
- Department of Animal & Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Sydney T Reese
- Department of Animal Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Ky G Pohler
- Department of Animal Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - David A Roper
- Department of Animal Sciences & Veterinary Technology, Tarleton State University, Stephenville, TX, USA
| | - Vitor R Mercadante
- Department of Animal & Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Alan D Ealy
- Department of Animal & Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
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