1
|
Verstraete MH, Dini P, Orellana D, Uribe-Salazar JM, Veras MM, Carneiro F, Daels P, Fernandes CB. Placental homogeneity: Characterizing transcriptional variation among equine chorioallantoic locations. Theriogenology 2024; 229:75-82. [PMID: 39167835 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.08.019] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
The proper function of the placenta is essential for the health and growth of the fetus and the mother. The placenta relies on dynamic gene expression for its correct and timely development and function. Although numerous studies have identified genes vital for placental functions, equine placental molecular research has primarily focused on single placental locations, in sharp contrast with the broader approach in human studies. Here, we hypothesized that the molecular differences across different regions of the equine placenta are negligible because of its diffuse placental type with a macroscopic homogenous distribution of villi across the placental surface. We compared the transcriptome and stereological findings of the body, pregnant horn, and non-pregnant horn within the equine chorioallantois. Our transcriptomic analysis indicates that the variation between regions of the placenta within individuals is less than the variation observed between individuals. A low number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (n = 8) was identified when comparing pregnant and non-pregnant horns within the same placenta, suggesting a remarkable molecular uniformity. A higher number of DEGs was identified when comparing each horn to the body (193 DEGs comparing pregnant horn with body and 207 DEGs comparing non-pregnant horn with body). Genes with a higher expression in the body were associated with processes such as extracellular matrix synthesis and remodeling, which is relevant for placental maturation and placenta-endometrial separation at term and implies asynchrony of these processes across locations. The stereological analysis showed no differences in microcotyledonary density, and width between the locations. However, we observed a greater chorioallantoic thickness in the body and pregnant horn compared to the non-pregnant horn. Overall, our findings reveal a uniform transcriptomic profile across the placental horns, alongside a more distinct gene expression pattern between the uterine body and horns. These regional differences in gene expression suggest a different pace in the placental maturation and detachment among the placental locations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margo H Verstraete
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Pouya Dini
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Daniela Orellana
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Mariana M Veras
- Laboratory of environmental and experimental pathology, School of medicine, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francieli Carneiro
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Peter Daels
- Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Claudia B Fernandes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Laundon D, Proudley E, Basford PJ, Katsamenis OL, Chatelet DS, Cleal JK, Gostling NJ, Chavatte-Palmer P, Lewis RM. Quantitative microCT imaging of a whole equine placenta and its blood vessel network. Placenta 2024; 154:216-219. [PMID: 39096863 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.07.313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Placental structure is linked to function across morphological scales. In the placenta, changes to gross anatomy, such as surface area, volume, or blood vessel arrangement, are associated with suboptimal physiological outcomes. However, quantifying each of these metrics requires different laborious semi-quantitative methods. Here, we demonstrate how, with minimal sample preparation, whole-organ computed microtomography (microCT) can be used to calculate gross morphometry of the equine placenta and a range of additional metrics, including branching morphometry of placental vasculature, non-destructively from a single dataset. Our approach can be applied to quantify the gross structure of any large mammalian placenta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Davis Laundon
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Rd, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Ella Proudley
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Philip J Basford
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Rd, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK; School of Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK; μ-VIS X-Ray Imaging Centre, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Orestis L Katsamenis
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Rd, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK; μ-VIS X-Ray Imaging Centre, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - David S Chatelet
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Rd, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Neil J Gostling
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Rd, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK; School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Rd, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France; Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Rd, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Monaco D, Castagnetti C, Lanci A, Osman TK, Lacalandra GM, Fusi J. On-field Gross Morphology Evaluation of Dromedary Camel ( Camelus dromedarius) Fetal Membranes. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1553. [PMID: 38891600 PMCID: PMC11171016 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111553] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) fetal membranes, commonly referred to as "the placenta", are epitheliochorial, diffuse, and microcotyledonary, similarly to the mare's placenta. The evaluation of the placenta is an essential component of the neonatal evaluation in the equine species. However, post-partum or post-abortion placental assessment in dromedary camels is unfortunately too frequently neglected and, to the best of the authors' knowledge, the dromedary camel species lacks a comprehensive description of the normal placenta's gross morphology. In order to facilitate its on-field evaluation, the current study describes the macroscopic features of the placenta of the dromedary camel after full-term pregnancy and spontaneous parturition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Davide Monaco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Str. Prov per Casamassima, 70010 Bari, Italy; (D.M.); (G.M.L.)
| | - Carolina Castagnetti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Aliai Lanci
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Taher Kamal Osman
- Department of Advanced Biotechnology and Research, Salam Veterinary Group, Buraydah 51911, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Giovanni Michele Lacalandra
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Str. Prov per Casamassima, 70010 Bari, Italy; (D.M.); (G.M.L.)
| | - Jasmine Fusi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lanci A, Perina F, Armani S, Merlo B, Iacono E, Castagnetti C, Mariella J. Could assisted reproductive techniques affect equine fetal membranes and neonatal outcome? Theriogenology 2024; 215:125-131. [PMID: 38052132 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.11.032] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Embryo transfer (ET) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are widely used in equine species, but their effects on fetal adnexa and neonates have not been investigated yet. The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate whether pregnancies obtained by ET or ICSI could be associated with the presence of macroscopic alterations of fetal membranes (FM) and umbilical cord (UC) and if the use of these techniques could influence neonatal outcome. Sixty-six light breed mares hospitalized at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Bologna, for attending delivery were included in the study. Mares were divided into Artificial Insemination (AI; 32/66 mares, 48 %), Embryo Transfer (ET; 12/66 mares, 18.2 %) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI; 22/66 mares, 33 %) groups. All the medical reports of mares and their foals were reviewed and data about mare, pregnancy, foaling, fetal membranes, umbilical cord and foal were recorded. The occurrence of dystocia resulted statistically different between AI group and ICSI group (p = 0.0066), and between AI group and ET group (p = 0.044). Macroscopic examination of FM revealed alterations in 30/66 mares (46 %): 8/32 in AI (25 %), 7/12 in ET (58 %) and 15/22 in ICSI (68 %) with significant lower incidence in AI compared to ET (p = 0.04) and ICSI (p = 0.002) groups. Alterations reported were chorionic villi hypoplasia, chorioallantois edema, allantois cysts, necrotic areas and greenish-grey concretions. Total length of UC resulted significantly shorter in ICSI group (49 ± 9 cm; p < 0.03) compared to AI (60 ± 17 cm) and ET (59 ± 15 cm). However, there were no differences in the incidence of foals' diseases at birth and in foals' survival among groups (p > 0.05). The results demonstrate that transfer of in vivo or in vitro produced embryos may lead to alterations of placental development, as observed in other species, without being associated with a higher incidence of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Further studies about trophoblast development, FM histological evaluation, and placental gene expression should be carried out to clarify the mechanisms underlying the placental alterations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aliai Lanci
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50- 40064-Ozzano Dell' Emilia (BO), Italy.
| | - Francesca Perina
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50- 40064-Ozzano Dell' Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Sabrina Armani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50- 40064-Ozzano Dell' Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Barbara Merlo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50- 40064-Ozzano Dell' Emilia (BO), Italy; Health Science and Technologies Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research (HST-ICIR), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Eleonora Iacono
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50- 40064-Ozzano Dell' Emilia (BO), Italy; Health Science and Technologies Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research (HST-ICIR), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carolina Castagnetti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50- 40064-Ozzano Dell' Emilia (BO), Italy; Health Science and Technologies Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research (HST-ICIR), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jole Mariella
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50- 40064-Ozzano Dell' Emilia (BO), Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Beckers KF, Gomes VCL, Crissman KR, Liu CC, Schulz CJ, Childers GW, Sones JL. Metagenetic Analysis of the Pregnant Microbiome in Horses. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1999. [PMID: 37370509 DOI: 10.3390/ani13121999] [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: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Placentitis is the leading cause of infectious abortion in the horse. Additionally, it can result in weak and/or growth restricted offspring. While the etiology of ascending placentitis is well described in mares, less is known regarding the pathogenesis of other types, such as nocardioform placentitis. This study aims to identify the microbial communities in different body sites of the pregnant mare in early gestation to establish a core microbiome that may be perturbed in pathologic pregnancies such as placentitis. We hypothesize that the equine placenta harbors a distinct resident microbiome in early pregnancy when characterized by metagenetics and that there will be a disparity in bacterial communities from the oral, vaginal, and fecal microbiome. Samples were collected from the oral cavity, vagina, anus, and the allantoic portion of the allantochorion ("placenta") from five pregnant mares between 96 and 120 days of gestation. The V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was amplified for Illumina MiSeq sequencing to examine core bacterial communities present in the different body sites. Microbial community composition of the pregnant ponies by body site was significantly different (Bray-Curtis dissimilarity). The placenta was significantly different from the feces, oral cavity, and vagina. Alpha diversity measuring the Shannon diversity matrix was significant, with the body sites being a compounding variable, meaning there was a difference in richness and evenness in the different microbial communities. Feces had the greatest alpha diversity, while the oral cavity and placenta similarly had the least. In conclusion, metagenetics did reveal distinct community differences in the oral, fecal, vaginal, and placenta cavities of the horse. The equine placenta does show similarities in its microbial communities to the oral cavity. Further research needs to be completed to investigate how bacteria may be translocated to the placenta from these other body sites and how they contribute to the development of placentitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalie F Beckers
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Viviane C L Gomes
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Kassandra R Crissman
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Chin-Chi Liu
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Christopher J Schulz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA 70402, USA
| | - Gary W Childers
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA 70402, USA
| | - Jenny L Sones
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Alonso MA, Boakari YL, Riccio AV, Belli CB, Fernandes CB. Perinatal parameters of mule and equine foals: similarities and differences. J Vet Behav 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
|
7
|
Lanci A, Perina F, Donadoni A, Castagnetti C, Mariella J. Dystocia in the Standardbred Mare: A Retrospective Study from 2004 to 2020. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12121486. [PMID: 35739823 PMCID: PMC9219446 DOI: 10.3390/ani12121486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dystocia as a prolonged stage II parturition (>30 min) was associated with a higher risk of complications. The hypothesis of the study was that any type of dystocia could affect the foal’s health, even when the stage II was <30 min. Clinical reports on 222 Standardbred mares and their foals hospitalized at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Bologna from 2004 to 2020 were reviewed. Mares were divided into the Eutocia Group (165, eutocic delivery) and the Dystocia Group (57, dystocic delivery). The incidence of dystocia was 4.9%. Stage II was longer in the Dystocia Group (median 20 min) than in the Eutocia Group (median 12 min). All occurrences of dystocia were retrospectively classified into three categories of severity: mild, moderate and severe dystocia. The occurrence of postpartum complications in mares and neonatal diseases and failure of passive transfer of immunity in foals was higher in the Dystocia Group. Foal venous lactatemia and serum creatine kinase were significantly higher in the Dystocia Group (median 3.9 mmol/L; 262 UI/L respectively) than in the Eutocia Group (median 3.1 mmol/L; 187 UI/L respectively). The APGAR score was lower in the Dystocia Group (median 8) than in the Eutocia Group (median 10) and significantly lower in severe dystocia (median 3). The duration of stage II should not be considered the only parameter of dystocia in mares: even a rapid resolution of dystocia could pose health risks to the foal and the mare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aliai Lanci
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sora 50, Ozzano dell’Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (C.C.); (J.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesca Perina
- Independent Researcher, Località Caiar 25, Caprino Veronese, 37013 Verona, Italy;
| | - André Donadoni
- Independent Researcher, Via Frittaia 30/A, Casaleone, 37052 Verona, Italy;
| | - Carolina Castagnetti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sora 50, Ozzano dell’Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (C.C.); (J.M.)
- Health Science and Technologies Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research (CIRI-SDV), University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Jole Mariella
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sora 50, Ozzano dell’Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (C.C.); (J.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Neto da Silva AC, Costa AL, Teixeira A, Alpoim-Moreira J, Fernandes C, Fradinho MJ, Rebordão MR, Silva E, Ferreira da Silva J, Bliebernicht M, Alexandre-Pires G, Ferreira-Dias G. Collagen and Microvascularization in Placentas From Young and Older Mares. Front Vet Sci 2022; 8:772658. [PMID: 35059454 PMCID: PMC8764314 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.772658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In older mares, increasing collagen fibers (fibrosis) in the endometrium and oviduct predisposes to sub-fertility and infertility. In this study, (i) gene transcription of collagen (qPCR: COL1A1, COL1A2, COL3A1, COL5A1); (ii) total collagen protein (hydroxyproline); (iii) collagen distribution (Picrosirius red staining; polarized light microscopy); and (iv) microvascular density (Periodic acid-Schiff staining), were evaluated in mares' placenta, and related to mares age, and placenta and neonate weights. Samples were collected from the gravid horn, non-gravid horn, and body of the placenta from younger (n = 7), and older mares (n = 9) of different breeds. Transcripts of COL1A1, COL3A1 and COL5A1, total collagen protein, chorionic plate connective tissue thickness, and microvascularization increased in the gravid horn of older mares' placentas, compared to the youngest (P < 0.05). Although in other species placenta fibrosis may indicate placental insufficiency and reduced neonate weight, this was not observed here. It appears that older fertile mares, with more parities, may develop a heavier, more vascularized functional placenta with more collagen, throughout a longer gestation, which enables the delivery of heavier foals. Thus, these features might represent morphological and physiological adaptations of older fertile mares' placentas to provide the appropriate nutrition to the equine fetus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Catarina Neto da Silva
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Ana Teixeira
- Pole Reprodución Haras de La Gesse, Boulogne-sur-Gesse, France
| | - Joana Alpoim-Moreira
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carina Fernandes
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria João Fradinho
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Rosa Rebordão
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Coimbra College of Agriculture, Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Silva
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José Ferreira da Silva
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Graça Alexandre-Pires
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Graça Ferreira-Dias
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Managing Reproduction Emergencies in the Field: Part 2: Parturient and Periparturient Conditions. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2021; 37:367-405. [PMID: 34243878 DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2021.04.008] [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] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Selected conditions affecting broodmares are discussed, including arterial rupture, dystocia, foal support with ex utero intrapartum treatment, uterine prolapse, postpartum colic, the metritis/sepsis/systemic inflammatory response syndrome complex, and retained fetal membranes. Postpartum colic beyond third-stage labor contractions should prompt comprehensive evaluation for direct injuries to the reproductive tract or indirect injury of the intestinal tract. Mares with perforation or rupture of the uterus are typically recognized 1 to 3 days after foaling, with depression, fever, and leukopenia; laminitis and progression to founder can be fulminant. The same concerns are relevant in mares with retention of fetal membranes.
Collapse
|
10
|
Jaworska J, Ropka-Molik K, Piórkowska K, Szmatoła T, Kowalczyk-Zięba I, Wocławek-Potocka I, Siemieniuch M. Transcriptome Profiling of the Retained Fetal Membranes-An Insight in the Possible Pathogenesis of the Disease. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030675. [PMID: 33802481 PMCID: PMC8000898 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Retained fetal membranes (RFM) in mares is a disease of a multifactorial etiology with not fully understood pathogenesis. Profound analysis of genes expressed in the placenta may reveal pathways and processes which might be comprised in mares with this disease and hence help to explain the pathogenesis of RFM. This work employed RNA sequencing to identify and compare genes differentially expressed (DEGs) in the placenta of mares that retained fetal membranes and those that released them physiologically. Results showed that within DEGs genes important for apoptosis, inflammatory-related processes, and metabolism of extracellular matrix were identified. Abstract Retained fetal membranes (RFM) is one of the most common post-partum diseases of a complex etiology. Moreover, its pathogenesis is still not elucidated. Detailed transcriptomic analysis of physiological and retained placenta may bring profound insight in the pathogenesis of the disease. The aim of the study was to compare the transcriptome of the retained and physiologically released placenta as well as biological pathways and processes in order to determine the possible pathogenesis of the disease. Samples of the endometrium and the allantochorion were taken within 2 h after parturition from control mares (n = 3) and mares with RFM (n = 3). RNA sequencing was performed with the use of all samples and mRNA expression of chosen genes was validated with Real Time PCR. Analysis of RNA-seq identified 487 differentially expressed genes in the allantochorion and 261 in the endometrium of control and RFM mares (p < 0.0001). Within genes that may be important in the release of fetal membranes and were differentially expressed, our report pinpointed BGN, TIMP1, DRB, CD3E, C3, FCN3, CASP3, BCL2L1. Gene ontology analysis showed possible processes which were altered in RFM that are apoptosis, inflammatory-related processes, and extracellular matrix metabolism and might be involved in the pathogenesis of RFM. This is the first report on the transcriptome of RFM and physiologically released placenta in mares.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Jaworska
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-747 Olsztyn, Poland; (I.K.-Z.); (I.W.-P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Katarzyna Ropka-Molik
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, 32-083 Balice, Poland; (K.R.-M.); (K.P.); (T.S.)
| | - Katarzyna Piórkowska
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, 32-083 Balice, Poland; (K.R.-M.); (K.P.); (T.S.)
| | - Tomasz Szmatoła
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, 32-083 Balice, Poland; (K.R.-M.); (K.P.); (T.S.)
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine Krakow, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Al. Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ilona Kowalczyk-Zięba
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-747 Olsztyn, Poland; (I.K.-Z.); (I.W.-P.)
| | - Izabela Wocławek-Potocka
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-747 Olsztyn, Poland; (I.K.-Z.); (I.W.-P.)
| | - Marta Siemieniuch
- Research Station of the Institute of Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Popielno, 12-220 Ruciane-Nida, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
de Medeiros Assis D, Fernandes de Freitas R, Rodrigues do Nascimento MJ, Santana Pereira C, Isidro da Nóbrega Neto P, Arcoverde Maciel T, Xavier Medeiros G, Nogueira de Galiza GJ, Gomes de Miranda Neto E. Postpartum Polyneuropathy in a Mare: A Case Report. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 96:103309. [PMID: 33349410 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Obstetric paralysis is a generic term used to describe postpartum locomotor alterations resulting from nerve damage, widely reported in cattle, but rare in equines. The aim of this study is to report a case of a peripheral polyneuropathy in a primiparous mare, 3 years old, of Mangalarga Marchador breed, after a dystocia lasting approximately 12 hours. At the time of delivery, the head of the fetus was exposed in the vulva and there was flexion of the thoracic limbs. These events culminated in a framework of extreme abduction of the pelvic limbs, thus generating functional impotence and leading the animal to adopt a frog anddecubitus position. After three days of treatment with no improvement in the clinical framework, the animal was euthanized. In the postmortem examination, perineural hemorrhagic lesions were observed in the obturator and sciatic nerves, characterizing the diagnosis of obstetric paralysis. It is possible the outcome of the case would have been satisfactory if there had been an early fetotomy or postpartum treatment had been more prolonged; however, these measures depend on the availability of equipment, conditions of care, and consideration of the owner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel de Medeiros Assis
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science and Health (PPGCSA), Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), Patos, Paraiba, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Caio Santana Pereira
- Large Animal Medical and Surgical Residency Program, Hospital Veterinario (HVU), UFCG, Patos, Paraiba, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wilsher S, Bowker A, Silva J, Allen WRT. Morphological Characteristics of the Placenta and Umbilical Cord of Arabian Mares Foaling in the United Arab Emirates. J Equine Vet Sci 2020; 91:103124. [PMID: 32684262 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A total of 127 normal placentas from Arabian mares resident in the United Arab Emirates were examined. The mean linear dimensions of the placenta were, on average, 84% of those previously recorded for the placentas of the Thoroughbred. Significant differences in the size of the allantochorion between primigravid and multiparous mares were seen only in the linear dimensions of the body portion. The pregnant horn was more commonly on the right than left side of the uterus (P = .01; 74/127; 58%). Cord attachment was primarily at the base of the two placental horns (112/127; 88%), with the remainder showing anomalies from this position. The mean (±SEM) total length of the umbilical cords was 62.2 ± 1.2 cm, being composed of the allantoic portion (29.7 ± 0.9 cm) and amniotic portion (32.5 ± 0.6 cm), which averaged 53 ± 0.01% of the total length. The amniotic portion was usually, but not always, longer than the allantoic portion (79/127; 62%). Longer cords were associated with a greater proportion of allantoic length. An enlarged yolk sac remnant (YSR) was present in 16/127 (13%) placentas. Cords with YSRs displayed a significantly longer allantoic portion than those without (P = .02). The total cord length was not correlated with the weight or area of the allantochorion or amnion, any linear measurement of the allantochorion, gestation length, the month of foaling, parity of the dam, or birthweight or sex of the foal. The purpose for which the mare was bred (i.e., racing or showing) influenced the cord length, those of show mares being significantly longer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Bowker
- Al Asayl Racing and Equestrian, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Janela Silva
- Sharjah Equine Hospital, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Campos I, Batista B, Matos AC, Dutra F, Gomes G, Pinna A, Leite J, Ferreira A. Pregnancy loss due to amnionitis in anglo-arabian mare-Case report. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:438-441. [PMID: 31916285 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13625] [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: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The amnion is a layer of the foetal membrane that has mechanical protection function and allows expansion and growth. The diseases that affect amnion have rarely been reported in horses. Amnionitis and funiculitis have been implicated as components of abortions as observed in abortions caused by the mare reproductive loss syndrome. Here, we report an abortion at 240-day gestation of a 7-year-old Anglo-Arabian mare with a history of previous stillbirth. Blood samples from both mare and foetus were collected for serological testing. Fragments from the placenta were taken for macroscopic and histopathological examinations. The results of these tests ruled out leptospirosis and concluded that the cause of the abortion was non-infectious chronic amnionitis. Moreover, the decreased vascularization in the placenta was consistent with placental insufficiency. This case highlights the importance of monthly ultrasound monitoring in equine pregnancy in order to diagnose placental insufficiency. The study also confirmed the efficiency of the histopathological examination for the definitive diagnosis of placental inflammation and for the study of foetal vascularization to rule out placental insufficiency in equine reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabela Campos
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Clinic, Federal Fluminense Universit, Niteroi, Brazil
| | - Barbara Batista
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Clinic, Federal Fluminense Universit, Niteroi, Brazil
| | - Ana Carina Matos
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Clinic, Federal Fluminense Universit, Niteroi, Brazil
| | | | - Gustavo Gomes
- Diagnostic Veterinary Medicine, University of Vassouras, Vassouras, Brazil
| | - Aline Pinna
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Clinic, Federal Fluminense Universit, Niteroi, Brazil
| | - Juliana Leite
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Clinic, Federal Fluminense Universit, Niteroi, Brazil
| | - Ana Ferreira
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Clinic, Federal Fluminense Universit, Niteroi, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Branecky DA, Javsicas LH, Mort JD, Watkins AR, McNaughten JW. Theriogenology Question of the Month. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2018; 252:655-657. [PMID: 29504858 DOI: 10.2460/javma.252.6.655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
15
|
Affiliation(s)
- M. Pozor
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences; University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine; Gainesville USA
| |
Collapse
|