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Palazzese L, Turri F, Anzalone DA, Saragusty J, Bonnet J, Colotte M, Tuffet S, Pizzi F, Luciani A, Matsukawa K, Czernik M, Loi P. Reviving vacuum-dried encapsulated ram spermatozoa via ICSI after 2 years of storage. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1270266. [PMID: 38098985 PMCID: PMC10720722 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1270266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Freeze-drying techniques give alternative preservation mammalian spermatozoa without liquid nitrogen. However, most of the work has been conducted in the laboratory mouse, while little information has been gathered on large animals that could also benefit from this kind of storage. Methods This work adapted a technique known as vacuum-drying encapsulation (VDE), originally developed for nucleic acid conservation in anhydrous state, to ram spermatozoa, and compared it to canonical lyophilization (FD), testing long-term storage at room temperature (RT) and 4°C. Results and discussion The results demonstrated better structural stability, namely lipid composition and DNA integrity, in VDE spermatozoa than FD ones, with outcomes at RT storage comparable to 4°C. Likewise, in VDE the embryonic development was higher than in FD samples (12.8% vs. 8.7%, p < 0.001, respectively). Our findings indicated that in large mammals, it is important to consider dehydration-related changes in sperm polyunsaturated fatty acids coupled with DNA alterations, given their crucial role in embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Palazzese
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Federica Turri
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), National Research Council (CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | | | - Joseph Saragusty
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Jacques Bonnet
- Laboratoire de Recherche et Développement, Imagene Company, Pessac, France
- Institut Bergonié, INSERM, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Marthe Colotte
- Plateforme de Production, Imagene, Genopole, Evry, France
| | - Sophie Tuffet
- Plateforme de Production, Imagene, Genopole, Evry, France
| | - Flavia Pizzi
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), National Research Council (CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Alessia Luciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Marta Czernik
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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2
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Merlo B, Gugole P, Iacono E, Mari G, De Amicis I, Bucci R, Loi P, Saragusty J. 142 Horse oocyte intracytoplasmic sperm injection with freeze-dried and frozen donkey spermatozoa: preliminary results. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv35n2ab142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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3
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Loi P, Anzalone DA, Palazzese L, Dinnyés A, Saragusty J, Czernik M. Dry storage of mammalian spermatozoa and cells: state-of-the-art and possible future directions. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:82-90. [PMID: 38769676 DOI: 10.1071/rd20264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
This review provides a snapshot of the current state-of-the-art of drying cells and spermatozoa. The major successes and pitfalls of the most relevant literature are described separately for spermatozoa and cells. Overall, the data published so far indicate that we are closer to success in spermatozoa, whereas the situation is far more complex with cells. Critical for success is the presence of xeroprotectants inside the spermatozoa and, even more so, inside cells to protect subcellular compartments, primarily DNA. We highlight workable strategies to endow gametes and cells with the right combination of xeroprotectants, mostly sugars, and late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) or similar 'intrinsically disordered' proteins to help them withstand reversible desiccation. We focus on the biological aspects of water stress, and in particular cellular and DNA damage, but also touch on other still unexplored issues, such as the choice of both dehydration and rehydration methods or approaches, because, in our view, they play a primary role in reducing desiccation damage. We conclude by highlighting the need to exhaustively explore desiccation strategies other than lyophilisation, such as air drying, spin drying or spray drying, ideally with new prototypes, other than the food and pharmaceutical drying strategies currently used, tailored for the unique needs of cells and spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Loi
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, TE 64100, Italy; and Corresponding author
| | - D A Anzalone
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, TE 64100, Italy
| | - L Palazzese
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, TE 64100, Italy
| | - A Dinnyés
- BioTalentum Ltd, Gödöllo, 2100 Gödöllo, Hungary; and HCEMM-USZ, StemCell Research Group, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; and Sichuan University, College of Life Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - J Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, TE 64100, Italy
| | - M Czernik
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, TE 64100, Italy; and Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec, Poland
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Ryder OA, Friese C, Greely HT, Sandler R, Saragusty J, Durrant BS, Redford KH. Exploring the limits of saving a subspecies: The ethics and social dynamics of restoring northern white rhinos (
Ceratotherium simum cottoni
). Conservat Sci and Prac 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver A. Ryder
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research Escondido California USA
| | - Carrie Friese
- Sociology DepartmentLondon School of Economics and Political Science London UK
| | | | - Ronald Sandler
- Department of Philosophy and ReligionNortheastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology. Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Campus Coste San AgostinoUniversity of Teramo Teramo Italy
| | - Barbara S. Durrant
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research Escondido California USA
| | - Kent H. Redford
- Archipelago Consulting Portland Maine USA
- Department of Environmental StudiesUniversity of New England Biddeford Maine USA
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University Brisbane Queensland Australia
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Saragusty J, Ajmone-Marsan P, Sampino S, Modlinski JA. Reproductive biotechnology and critically endangered species: Merging in vitro gametogenesis with inner cell mass transfer. Theriogenology 2020; 155:176-184. [PMID: 32702562 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
A fifth of mammalian species face the risk of extinction. A variety of stresses, and lack of sufficient resources and political endorsement, mean thousands of further extinctions in the coming years. Once a species has declined to a mere few individuals, in situ efforts seem insufficient to prevent its extinction. Here we propose a roadmap to overcome some of the current roadblocks and facilitate rejuvenation of such critically endangered species. We suggest combining two advanced assisted reproductive technologies to accomplish this task. The first is the generation of gametes from induced pluripotent stem cells, already demonstrated in mice. The second is to 'trick' the immunological system of abundant species' surrogate mothers into believing it carries conceptus of its own species. This can be achieved by transferring the inner cell mass (ICM) of the endangered species into a trophoblastic vesicle derived from the foster mother's species. Such synthesis of reproductive biotechnologies, in association with in situ habitat conservation and societal changes, holds the potential to restore diversity and accelerate the production of animals in the most endangered species on Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Paolo Ajmone-Marsan
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition - DIANA, Nutrigenomics and Proteomics Research Center - PRONUTRIGEN, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Silvestre Sampino
- Department of Experimental Embryology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzębiec, Poland
| | - Jacek A Modlinski
- Department of Experimental Embryology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzębiec, Poland
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Saragusty J, Anzalone DA, Palazzese L, Arav A, Patrizio P, Gosálvez J, Loi P. Dry biobanking as a conservation tool in the Anthropocene. Theriogenology 2020; 150:130-138. [PMID: 31980207 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Species are going extinct at an alarming rate, termed by some as the sixth mass extinction event in the history of Earth. Many are the causes for this but in the end, all converge to one entity - humans. Since we are the cause, we also hold the key to making the change. Any change, however, will take time, and for some species this could be too long. While working on possible solutions, we also have the responsibility to buy time for those species on the verge of extinction. Genome resource banks, in the form of cryobanks, where samples are maintained under liquid nitrogen, are already in existence but they come with a host of drawbacks. Biomimicry - innovation inspired by Nature, has been a huge source for ideas. Searching methods that Nature utilizes to preserve biological systems for extended periods of time, we realize that drying rather than freezing is the method of choice. We thus argue here in favor of preserving at least part of the samples from critically endangered species in dry biobanks, a much safer, cost-effective, biobanking approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Debora Agata Anzalone
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Luca Palazzese
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Amir Arav
- FertileSafe Ltd., Ness Ziona, Israel
| | - Pasquale Patrizio
- FertileSafe Ltd., Ness Ziona, Israel; Yale Fertility Center, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Genetics Unit, Department of Biology, University Autónoma of Madrid, Catoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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Saragusty J. Cryobiology in wildlife conservation. Cryobiology 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2018.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Saragusty J. Exploring dry storage as an alternative biobanking strategy inspired by nature. Cryobiology 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2018.10.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Hermes R, Saragusty J, Moser I, Barth SA, Holtze S, Lecu A, Cracknell J, Williams D, Göritz F, Hildebrandt TB. Differential detection of tuberculous and non-tuberculous mycobacteria by qPCR in lavage fluids of tuberculosis-suspicious white rhinoceros. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207365. [PMID: 30485372 PMCID: PMC6261570 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) occurs in a wide range of mammalian species and thus poses a health risk to humans living or working in close proximity with TB infected animals. Despite a high incidence of M. bovis infections in domestic or wildlife species tuberculosis infections in rhinoceros have so far been very limited. Over the past 53 years, tuberculosis of the respiratory tract has been confirmed in just 22 rhinoceros, most of those infected not by M. bovis but M. tuberculosis. However, because of the zoonotic risk TB testing is recommended or becomes even mandatory in endangered species. The dilemma in rhinoceros and many other wildlife species; non-validated tests are highly inconsistent in their ability to identify TB infection. Current lack of TB diagnostics may result in TB positive rhinoceros living with the infection, transmitting it to those around them or in euthanasia of animals found unconfirmed at necropsy. This is an unacceptable diagnostic status considering that some species are critically endangered and therefore should not be euthanized in order to confirm suspicion of disease. To overcome this shortcoming we used bronchoscopy to detect mycobacteria in respiratory fluids of TB suspicious rhinoceros. Fluids from seven, TB suspicious white rhinoceros were harvested during 21 bronchoscopies. Our new approach: In addition to bacterial culture a dual quantitative PCR system tested for the general presence of DNA from NTM and more specifically for DNA from MTC. Both, bacterial culture and qPCR were negative for MTC in respiratory fluids of all rhinoceros (7/7). At the same time, respiratory fluids from six rhinoceros tested positive for the presence of NTM or other closely related bacteria (6/7). M. tuberculosis was found only once in an oesophageal aspirate. The high incidence of mycobacterial DNA in the respiratory tract suggests that white rhinoceros, as strict grazers, are immensely exposed to environmental bacteria of this genus. Presence of NTM in the respiratory or intestinal system could possibly cause false positive results in intradermal tests. A wider use of bronchoalveolar lavage is warranted to further elucidate immunologic response to NTM and exposure to, incidence and prevalence of MTC infections in rhinoceros.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Irmgard Moser
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Molecular Pathogenesis, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefanie A. Barth
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Molecular Pathogenesis, Jena, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Jonathan Cracknell
- Conservation Medicine Services, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | | | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Bernd Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
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Palazzese L, Gosálvez J, Anzalone DA, Loi P, Saragusty J. DNA fragmentation in epididymal freeze-dried ram spermatozoa impairs embryo development. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:393-400. [PMID: 29973438 PMCID: PMC6189572 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm freeze-drying is a revolutionary technique, which has been gaining prominence in recent years. The first related significant result was Wakayama and Yanagimachi's demonstration in 1998 of the birth of healthy mouse offspring by Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), using epididymal freeze-dried spermatozoa. Mouse, rat, and hamster models were the first small mammals born from lyophilized epididymal spermatozoa, whereas most other studies in this field used ejaculated spermatozoa. In this work, we applied this technique to ram epididymal spermatozoa, checking the correlation between DNA integrity and embryo development following ICSI. To do this, epididymal sperm from four rams was lyophilized in a trehalose, glucose, KCl, HEPES, and Trolox media. To evaluate DNA damage and fragmentation after rehydration, samples were processed for Sperm Chromatin Dispersion test (SCD), Two-Tailed Comet Assay, and were used for ICSI. Ram #2 had a higher rate of spermatozoa with intact DNA compared with rams #1, #3, and #4 (28% vs. 3.8%, 2.8%, and 5%, respectively) and the lowest rate of Single-Strand Breaks (SSBs) (70% vs. 95.9%, 92.6%, and 93% respectively). Ram #3 had a higher level of Double-Strand Breaks (DSBs) compared to Ram #1 (4.6% vs. 0.33%, respectively). Embryo development to the blastocyst stage following ICSI was only reached from rams whose sperm had higher level of intact DNA - Rams #2 and #4 (6%, 5/147 and 6.3%, 4/64, respectively). Definitively, the impact of sperm DNA damage on embryonic development depends on the balance between sperm DNA fragmentation extent, fragmentation type (SSBs or DSBs), and the oocyte's repair capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Palazzese
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo 64100, Italy
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Genetics Unit, Department of Biology, University Autónoma of Madrid, Catoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Debora A Anzalone
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo 64100, Italy
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo 64100, Italy
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo 64100, Italy
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin 10315, Germany
- Present: Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo 64100, Italy
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11
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Palazzese L, Anzalone DA, Gosálvez´ J, Loi P, Saragusty J. 45 DNA Fragmentation of Epididymal Freeze-Dried Ram Spermatozoa Impairs Embryo Development. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv30n1ab45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm freeze-drying is a revolutionary technique that resolves many of the drawback of long-term storage under liquid nitrogen. The first significant result of this method was provided by Wakayama and Yanagimachi (1998 Nat. Biotechnol. 16, 639-641, 10.1038/nbt0798-639), demonstrating for the first time the birth of healthy offspring from epididymal freeze-dried (mouse) spermatozoa. Besides models in the mouse and rat, which are the first small mammals born from epididymal lyophilized sperm by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), most studies in this field have used ejaculated sperm. In this work, aiming to repeat the result of Wakayama and Yanagimachi, we tried to apply this technique to epididymal spermatozoa from a large mammal (ram). Moreover, we checked the correlation between freeze-dried spermatozoa DNA integrity and embryo development. To do this, epididymal sperm from 4 rams was lyophilized in a medium containing trehalose, glucose, KCl, HEPES, and Trolox. To evaluate DNA damage and fragmentation at rehydration, part of the sperm was processed for sperm chromatin dispersion test (SCD) and two-tailed comet assay and the rest was used for ICSI. Compared with rams 1 and 3, rams 2 and 4 had higher rate of spermatozoa with intact DNA (median: 3.3% v. 16.5%, respectively), lower rate of single strand breaks (SSB; median: 94.2% v. 81.5%, respectively) and lower rate of double-strand breaks (DSB; median: 2.5% v. 2%, respectively). Embryo development following ICSI showed that blastocyst stage was reached only from rams that had sperm with more intact DNA: ram 2 (4.8%, n = 83) and ram 4 (6.3%, n = 64). Spermatozoa from rams 1 and 3 produced no blastocysts. This can be explained by the fact that rams 2 and 4 had higher rate of spermatozoa with intact DNA than rams 1 and 3. Definitively, the implication of sperm DNA damage in embryonic development should depend on the balance between the extent of sperm DNA fragmentation, the type of fragmentation (SSB or DSB), and the oocyte’s repair capacity. Rams 2 and 4 were the only rams that produced blastocyst probably because they had considerably more sperm with normal DNA; thus, it is important to select spermatozoa of the best quality to perform a good ICSI. Fragmentation of DNA due to the lyophilization process impairs embryonic development. To conclude, oocytes injected with epididymal freeze-dried ram spermatozoa can reach the blastocyst stage. These are preliminary results; more conclusive outcomes will be given following embryo transfer experiments that are now in progress.
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Saragusty J, Lemma A, Hildebrandt TB, Göritz F. Follicular size predicts success in artificial insemination with frozen-thawed sperm in donkeys. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175637. [PMID: 28520723 PMCID: PMC5435134 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In asses, semen collection, cryopreservation, and artificial insemination (AI) with frozen-thawed semen have been scarcely described and success rate, particularly following AI, is reportedly low. In the absence of reliable protocols, assisted reproductive technologies cannot support the conservation efforts aimed at endangered wild ass species and domestic donkey breeds. Two experiments were conducted in this study. In experiment 1 we evaluated freezing Abyssinian donkey (N = 5, 4 ejaculates each) spermatozoa using three freezing extenders (Berliner Cryomedium + glycerol, BC+G; BotuCrio, BOTU; INRAFreeze, INRA) and two cryopreservation techniques (liquid nitrogen vapour, LNV; directional freezing, DF). Post-thaw evaluation indicated that BOTU and INRA were similar and both superior to BC+G (P ≤ 0.004 for all motility tests), and that DF was superior to LNV (P < 0.002 for all evaluation parameters). In experiment 2, relying on these results, we used Abyssinian donkey sperm frozen in BOTU and INRA by DF for AI (N = 20). Prior to AI, thawed samples were diluted in corresponding centrifugation media or autologous seminal fluids at 1:1 ratio. No difference was found between BOTU and INRA or between the addition of seminal fluids or media, all resulting in ~50% pregnancy, and no differences were noted between males (N = 4). The size of pre-ovulatory follicle was a significant (P = 0.001) predictor for AI success with 9/10 pregnancies occurring when follicular size ranged between 33.1-37.4 mm, no pregnancy when it was smaller, and only one when larger. A number of ass species face the risk of extinction. Knowledge gained in this study on the Abyssinian donkey can be customised and transferred to its closely related endangered species and breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alemayehu Lemma
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Debre Zeit, Ethiopia
| | - Thomas Bernd Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
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Hermes R, Schwarzenberger F, Göritz F, Oh S, Fernandes T, Bernardino R, Leclerc A, Greunz E, Mathew A, Forsyth S, Saragusty J, Hildebrandt TB. Ovarian down Regulation by GnRF Vaccination Decreases Reproductive Tract Tumour Size in Female White and Greater One-Horned Rhinoceroses. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0157963. [PMID: 27403662 PMCID: PMC4942122 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0157963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive tract tumours, specifically leiomyoma, are commonly found in female rhinoceroses. Similar to humans, tumour growth in rhinoceroses is thought to be sex hormone dependent. Tumours can form and expand from the onset of ovarian activity at puberty until the cessation of sex-steroid influences at senescence. Extensive tumour growth results in infertility. The aim of this study was to down regulate reproductive function of tumour-diseased and infertile females to stop further tumour growth using a Gonadotropin releasing factor (GnRF) vaccine. Four infertile southern white (Ceratotherium simum simum) and three Greater one-horned rhinoceroses (rhinoceros unicornis) with active ovaries and 2.7 ± 0.9 and 14.0 ± 1.5 reproductive tract tumours respectively were vaccinated against GnRF (Improvac®, Zoetis, Germany) at 0, 4 and 16 weeks and re-boostered every 6–8 months thereafter. After GnRF vaccination ovarian and luteal activity was suppressed in all treated females. Three months after vaccination the size of the ovaries, the number of follicles and the size of the largest follicle were significantly reduced (P<0.03). Reproductive tract tumours decreased significantly in diameter (Greater-one horned rhino: P<0.0001; white rhino: P<0.01), presumably as a result of reduced sex-steroid influence. The calculated tumour volumes were reduced by 50.8 ± 10.9% in Greater one-horned and 48.6 ± 12.9% in white rhinoceroses. In conclusion, GnRF vaccine effectively down regulated reproductive function and decreased the size of reproductive tract tumours in female rhinoceros. Our work is the first to use down regulation of reproductive function as a symptomatic treatment against benign reproductive tumour disease in a wildlife species. Nonetheless, full reversibility and rhinoceros fertility following GnRF vaccination warrants further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, PF 700430, D-10342 Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Franz Schwarzenberger
- University of Veterinary Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Frank Göritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, PF 700430, D-10342 Berlin, Germany
| | - Serena Oh
- Singapore Zoological Gardens, 80 Mandai Lakeroad, Singapore 729826, Singapore
| | - Teresa Fernandes
- Lisbon Zoo, Veterinary Hospital, Estrada de Benfica, n°158-160 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui Bernardino
- Lisbon Zoo, Veterinary Hospital, Estrada de Benfica, n°158-160 Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | - Abraham Mathew
- Singapore Zoological Gardens, 80 Mandai Lakeroad, Singapore 729826, Singapore
| | - Sarah Forsyth
- Colchester Zoo, Maldon Road, Stanway, Essex CO3 0SL, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, PF 700430, D-10342 Berlin, Germany
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Saragusty J, Diecke S, Drukker M, Durrant B, Friedrich Ben-Nun I, Galli C, Göritz F, Hayashi K, Hermes R, Holtze S, Johnson S, Lazzari G, Loi P, Loring JF, Okita K, Renfree MB, Seet S, Voracek T, Stejskal J, Ryder OA, Hildebrandt TB. Rewinding the process of mammalian extinction. Zoo Biol 2016; 35:280-92. [PMID: 27142508 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
With only three living individuals left on this planet, the northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) could be considered doomed for extinction. It might still be possible, however, to rescue the (sub)species by combining novel stem cell and assisted reproductive technologies. To discuss the various practical options available to us, we convened a multidisciplinary meeting under the name "Conservation by Cellular Technologies." The outcome of this meeting and the proposed road map that, if successfully implemented, would ultimately lead to a self-sustaining population of an extremely endangered species are outlined here. The ideas discussed here, while centered on the northern white rhinoceros, are equally applicable, after proper adjustments, to other mammals on the brink of extinction. Through implementation of these ideas we hope to establish the foundation for reversal of some of the effects of what has been termed the sixth mass extinction event in the history of Earth, and the first anthropogenic one. Zoo Biol. 35:280-292, 2016. © 2016 The Authors. Zoo Biology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- The Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Micha Drukker
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Barbara Durrant
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, Escondido, California
| | - Inbar Friedrich Ben-Nun
- Department of Chemical Physiology, Center for Regenerative Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea srl, Laboratorio di Tecnologie della Riproduzione, Cremona, Italy.,Dipartimento Scienze Mediche Veterinarie, Università di Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy.,Fondazione Avantea, Cremona, Italy
| | - Frank Göritz
- The Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Robert Hermes
- The Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- The Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Avantea srl, Laboratorio di Tecnologie della Riproduzione, Cremona, Italy.,Fondazione Avantea, Cremona, Italy
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Univeristy of Teramo, Campus Coste San Agostino, Teramo, Italy
| | - Jeanne F Loring
- Department of Chemical Physiology, Center for Regenerative Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Keisuke Okita
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Marilyn B Renfree
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven Seet
- The Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Oliver A Ryder
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, Escondido, California
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Garcia Montero A, Vole C, Burda H, Malkemper EP, Holtze S, Morhart M, Saragusty J, Hildebrandt TB, Begall S. Non-Breeding Eusocial Mole-Rats Produce Viable Sperm--Spermiogram and Functional Testicular Morphology of Fukomys anselli. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150112. [PMID: 26934488 PMCID: PMC4774953 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Ansell’s mole-rats (Fukomys anselli) are subterranean rodents living in families composed of about 20 members with a single breeding pair and their non-breeding offspring. Most of them remain with their parents for their lifetime and help to maintain and defend the natal burrow system, forage, and care for younger siblings. Since incest avoidance is based on individual recognition (and not on social suppression) we expect that non-breeders produce viable sperm spontaneously. We compared the sperm of breeding and non-breeding males, obtained by electroejaculation and found no significant differences in sperm parameters between both groups. Here, we used electroejaculation to obtain semen for the first time in a subterranean mammal. Spermiogram analysis revealed no significant differences in sperm parameters between breeders and non-breeders. We found significantly larger testes (measured on autopsies and on living animals per ultrasonography) of breeders compared to non-breeders (with body mass having a significant effect). There were no marked histological differences between breeding and non-breeding males, and the relative area occupied by Leydig cells and seminiferous tubules on histological sections, respectively, was not significantly different between both groups. The seminiferous epithelium and to a lesser degree the interstitial testicular tissue are characterized by lesions (vacuolar degenerations), however, this feature does not hinder fertilization even in advanced stages of life. The continuous production of viable sperm also in sexually abstinent non-breeders might be best understood in light of the mating and social system of Fukomys anselli, and the potential to found a new family following an unpredictable and rare encounter with an unfamiliar female (“provoked or induced dispersal”). Apparently, the non-breeders do not reproduce because they do not copulate but not because they would be physiologically infertile. The significantly increased testes volume of breeding males (compared to non-breeders) is in agreement with previously found higher testosterone levels of breeders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelica Garcia Montero
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty for Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Christiane Vole
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty for Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Hynek Burda
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty for Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Erich Pascal Malkemper
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty for Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Reproduction Management, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michaela Morhart
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Reproduction Management, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Reproduction Management, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Reproduction Management, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sabine Begall
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty for Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Saragusty J, Prieto MT, Courtiol A, Potier R, Göritz F, Hildebrandt TB, Hermes R. Sperm rescue in wild African elephants. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 28:RD14378. [PMID: 25763993 DOI: 10.1071/rd14378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated ways of improving the usefulness of ~1700mL of poor-quality frozen semen collected from wild African elephant (Loxodonta africana) bulls. Ten semen samples from six bulls, frozen with 5% glycerol in Berliner cryomedium, with or without prior removal of the seminal plasma by centrifugation, were tested. All samples were subjected to the following density-gradient centrifugation treatments: no centrifugation (control), sham centrifugation, Percoll, OptiPrep, Isolate and PureSperm. Sample evaluation included motility, concentration, viability, acrosome integrity and normal morphology after thawing and after gradient centrifugation. Motility was also evaluated 3h after thawing. While all treatments were similar to the Control in acrosome integrity and normal morphology, significant differences were noted in concentration, viability and motility. Samples treated by Percoll showed the best motility, which was maintained unchanged over 3h of incubation (37°C). Correlations between manual and automated evaluations of concentration were high (cytometer; rho=0.92), but were lower for viability (cytometer; rho=0.57) and motility (computer-aided sperm analysis; rho=0.66). By performing density centrifugation, the quality of these sperm samples may be improved to a level suitable for artificial insemination in elephants. Although a sizeable proportion of cells are lost in the process, combining samples may still allow for multiple inseminations.
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Abstract
Cryopreservation is currently the method of choice when it comes to long-term preservation of viable biological samples. The process, and consequently the volume of the sample, however, is limited by the ability to achieve homogenous and efficient heat removal. When this cannot be properly managed, ice crystals will grow uncontrollably resulting in extensive damage to the cryopreserved cells or tissues. Directional freezing is a technique that can be used to precisely control heat dissipation and ice crystal growth and morphology even when freezing large volumes. The technique has been used over the years to cryopreserve spermatozoa, oocytes, embryos, tissue slices and whole organs from a wide variety of domestic and wild species. In this chapter a protocol for directional freezing of spermatozoa is described and its benefits and shortcomings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany,
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Abstract
Directional freezing is based on a simple thermodynamic principle whereby the sample is moved through a predetermined temperature gradient at a velocity that determines the cooling rate. Directional freezing permits a precise and uniform cooling rate in small- and large-volume samples. It avoids supercooling and reduces mechanical damage caused by crystallisation. Directional solidification was used to date for slow and rapid freezing, as well as for vitrification of oocytes and embryos by means of the minimum drop size technique: small drops are placed on a microscope slide that is moved at high velocity from the hot base to the cold base. Sperm samples from a wide range of domestic and wild animals were successfully cryopreserved using the directional freezing method. The bovine sexed semen industry may benefit from the increased survival of spermatozoa after directional freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Arav
- Shlomzion Hamalca 59, Tel Aviv 62266, Israel
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Galateanu G, Hermes R, Saragusty J, Göritz F, Potier R, Mulot B, Maillot A, Etienne P, Bernardino R, Fernandes T, Mews J, Hildebrandt TB. Rhinoceros feet step out of a rule-of-thumb: a wildlife imaging pioneering approach of synchronized computed tomography-digital radiography. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100415. [PMID: 24963807 PMCID: PMC4070926 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, radiography is the only imaging technique used to diagnose bone pathology in wild animals situated under “field conditions”. Nevertheless, while chronic foot disease in captive mega-herbivores is widely reported, foot radiographic imaging is confronted with scarcity of studies. Numerous hindrances lead to such limited numbers and it became very clear that the traditional perspective on bone imaging in domestic animals based on extensive studies and elaborated statistical evaluations cannot be extrapolated to their non-domestic relatives. For these reasons, the authors initiated a multi-modality imaging study and established a pioneering approach of synchronized computed tomography (CT) and digital radiography (DR), based on X-ray projections derived from three-dimensional CT reconstructed images. Whereas this approach can be applied in any clinical field, as a case of outstanding importance and great concern for zoological institutions, we selected foot bone pathologies in captive rhinoceroses to demonstrate the manifold applications of the method. Several advances were achieved, endowing the wildlife clinician with all-important tools: prototype DR exposure protocols and a modus operandi for foot positioning, advancing both traditional projections and, for the first-time, species-related radiographic views; assessment of radiographic diagnostic value for the whole foot and, in premiere, for each autopodial bone; together with additional insights into radiographic appearance of bone anatomy and pathology with a unique, simultaneous CT-DR correlation. Based on its main advantages in availing a wide range of keystone data in wildlife imaging from a limited number of examined subjects and combining advantages of CT as the golden standard method for bone diseases' diagnostic with DR's clinical feasibility under field conditions, synchronized CT-DR presents a new perspective on wildlife's health management. With this we hope to provide veterinary clinicians with concrete imaging techniques and substantial diagnostic tools, which facilitate straightforward attainment and interpretation of field radiography images taken worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Galateanu
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Alexis Maillot
- Parc zoologique d'Amnéville, Amnéville-les-Thermes, France
| | - Pascal Etienne
- Parc zoologique de La Barben (Pélissane), La Barben, France
| | - Rui Bernardino
- Hospital Veterinário, Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Teresa Fernandes
- Hospital Veterinário, Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jurgen Mews
- Clinical Application Research Center, Toshiba Medical Systems Europe, Zoetermeer, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Bernd Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
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Saragusty J, Shavit-Meyrav A, Yamaguchi N, Nadler R, Bdolah-Abram T, Gibeon L, Hildebrandt TB, Shamir MH. Comparative skull analysis suggests species-specific captivity-related malformation in lions (Panthera leo). PLoS One 2014; 9:e94527. [PMID: 24718586 PMCID: PMC3981823 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Lion (Panthera leo) populations have dramatically decreased worldwide with a surviving population estimated at 32,000 across the African savannah. Lions have been kept in captivity for centuries and, although they reproduce well, high rates of stillbirths as well as morbidity and mortality of neonate and young lions are reported. Many of these cases are associated with bone malformations, including foramen magnum (FM) stenosis and thickened tentorium cerebelli. The precise causes of these malformations and whether they are unique to captive lions remain unclear. To test whether captivity is associated with FM stenosis, we evaluated 575 lion skulls of wild (N = 512) and captive (N = 63) origin. Tiger skulls (N = 276; 56 captive, 220 wild) were measured for comparison. While no differences were found between males and females or between subadults and adults in FM height (FMH), FMH of captive lions (17.36±3.20 mm) was significantly smaller and with greater variability when compared to that in wild lions (19.77±2.11 mm). There was no difference between wild (18.47±1.26 mm) and captive (18.56±1.64 mm) tigers in FMH. Birth origin (wild vs. captive) as a factor for FMH remained significant in lions even after controlling for age and sex. Whereas only 20/473 wild lions (4.2%) had FMH equal to or smaller than the 5th percentile of the wild population (16.60 mm), this was evident in 40.4% (23/57) of captive lion skulls. Similar comparison for tigers found no differences between the captive and wild populations. Lions with FMH equal to or smaller than the 5th percentile had wider skulls with smaller cranial volume. Cranial volume remained smaller in both male and female captive lions when controlled for skull size. These findings suggest species- and captivity-related predisposition for the pathology in lions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Anat Shavit-Meyrav
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Nobuyuki Yamaguchi
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Tubney, Abingdon, United Kingdom
| | - Rona Nadler
- Zoological Center Tel Aviv-Ramat Gan, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Tali Bdolah-Abram
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Laura Gibeon
- NYC Veterinary Specialists, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Merav H. Shamir
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
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Hermes R, Göritz F, Saragusty J, Stoops MA, Hildebrandt TB. Reproductive tract tumours: the scourge of woman reproduction ails Indian rhinoceroses. PLoS One 2014; 9:e92595. [PMID: 24671211 PMCID: PMC3966795 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In Indian rhinoceros, extensive leiomyoma, a benign smooth muscle tumour, was sporadically diagnosed post mortem and commonly thought of as contributing factor for reduced fecundity of this species in captivity. However, to date, the prevalence of reproductive tract tumours and their relevance for fecundity are unknown. Our analysis of the international studbook now reveals that females cease reproducing at the age of 18.1±1.2 years; equivalent to a reproductive lifespan of just 9.5±1.3 years. This short reproductive life is in sharp contrast to their longevity in captivity of over 40 years. Here we show, after examining 42% of the captive female population, that age-related genital tract tumours are highly prevalent in this endangered species. Growth and development of these tumours was found to be age-related, starting from the age of 10 years. All females older than 12 years had developed genital tumours, just 7–9 years past maturity. Tumour sizes ranged from 1.5–10 cm. With age, tumours became more numerous, sometimes merging into one large diffuse tumour mass. These tumours, primarily vaginal and cervical, presumably cause widespread young-age infertility by the age of 18 years. In few cases, tumour necrosis suggested possible malignancy of tumours. Possible consequences of such genital tract tumour infestation are hindered intromission, pain during mating, hampered sperm passage, risk of ascending infection during pregnancy, dystocia, or chronic vaginal bleeding. In humans, leiomyoma affect up to 80% of pre-menopause women. While a leading cause for infertility, pregnancy is known to reduce the risk of tumour development. However, different from human, surgical intervention is not a viable treatment option in rhinoceroses. Thus, in analogy to humans, we suggest early onset and seamless consecutive pregnancies to help reduce prevalence of this disease, better maintain a self-sustained captive population and improve animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hermes
- Department Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Department Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Monica A. Stoops
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
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Abstract
Recently there has been growing interest in applying the most advanced embryological tools, particularly cloning, to bring extinct species back to life, with a particular focus on the woolly mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius). Mammoth's bodies found in the permafrost are relatively well preserved, with identifiable nuclei in their tissues. The purpose of this chapter is to review the literature published on the topic, and to present the strategies potentially suitable for a mammoth cloning project, with a frank assessment of their feasibility and the ethical issues involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasqualino Loi
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, Teramo, 64100, Italy,
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23
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Galateanu G, Hildebrandt TB, Maillot A, Etienne P, Potier R, Mulot B, Saragusty J, Hermes R. One small step for rhinos, one giant leap for wildlife management--imaging diagnosis of bone pathology in distal limb. PLoS One 2013; 8:e68493. [PMID: 23874643 PMCID: PMC3706412 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2012] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic foot disease poses a threat to the general health, represents a tremendous clinical challenge, and often is a reason for euthanasia in captive megaherbivores, among them the elephant and rhinoceros. Nevertheless, apart from the elephant, foot pathology is handled as being confined only to soft tissues whereas bone pathology is often overlooked. As a case in point, the authors selected the second largest mammal on land, the rhinoceros. We performed a computed tomographic (CT) study using the highest resolution available in veterinary world, followed by digital radiography of eight distal limbs from two white and one Indian rhinoceroses. Our study demonstrated that bone pathology in rhinoceroses’ foot is present and in large numbers, yet none of these were diagnosed ante mortem. Even when the animals were euthanized due to foot problems, the decision was based on soft tissue pathology rather than orthopedic reasons. Even more worrying is the fact that the largest number of osteopathologies was present in one of the white rhinoceroses that showed no discernable related clinical signs. This study describes for the first time the existence of bone pathology in white rhinoceros foot, in addition to the two previously described rhinoceros species - Indian and black rhinoceroses. Furthermore, the chronic foot disease reported for the Indian rhinoceros in our study was not restricted to soft tissue structures as was presumed ante mortem but included severe bone pathology. New evidence suggesting that osteopathology in rhinoceroses’ distal limb is more widespread than it was thought before could force us to rethink of radiographic diagnosis in captive megaherbivores as routine examination incorporated into their health management. The anticipated improvements in radiologic examinations in megaherbivores will increase the effectiveness of their management and husbandry and open the way for improved animal welfare and better wildlife conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Galateanu
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.
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Hermes R, Saragusty J, Göritz F, Bartels P, Potier R, Baker B, Streich WJ, Hildebrandt TB. Freezing African elephant semen as a new population management tool. PLoS One 2013; 8:e57616. [PMID: 23483917 PMCID: PMC3590205 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0057616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The captive elephant population is not self-sustaining and with a limited number of breeding bulls, its genetic diversity is in decline. One way to overcome this is to import young and healthy animals from the wild. We introduce here a more sustainable alternative method - importation of semen from wild bulls without removing them from their natural habitat. Due to the logistics involved, the only practical option would be to transport cryopreserved sperm. Despite some early reports on African elephant semen cryopreservation, the utility of this new population management tool has not been evaluated. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Semen was collected by electroejaculation from 14 wild African savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana) bulls and cryopreserved using the directional freezing technique. Sperm treatments evaluated included the need for centrifugation, the use of hen or quail yolk, the concentration of glycerol (3%, 5% or 7%) in the extender, and maintenance of motility over time after thawing. Our results suggest that dilution in an extender containing hen yolk and 7% glycerol after centrifugation best preserved post-thaw sperm motility when compared to all other treatments (P≤0.012 for all). Using this approach we were able to achieve after thawing (mean ± SD) 54.6±3.9% motility, 85.3±2.4% acrosome integrity, and 86.8±4.6% normal morphology with no decrease in motility over 1 h incubation at 37°C. Sperm cryopreserved during this study has already lead to a pregnancy of a captive female elephant following artificial insemination. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE With working techniques for artificial insemination and sperm cryopreservation of both African and Asian elephants in hand, population managers can now enrich captive or isolated wild elephant populations without removing valuable individuals from their natural habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.
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Abstract
Central tarsal bone (CTB) fractures are well documented and are a subject of increasing importance in human, equine and canine athletes although the mechanism of these fractures in dogs is not fully understood and an extrapolation from human medicine may not be accurate. This study reports the use of high-resolution computed tomography (CT) of 91 tarsal joints from 47 dogs to generate a more detailed in situ anatomical description of the CTB architecture in order to obtain a better understanding of the pathogenesis of CTB fractures in this species. The dogs studied represented a wide range of ages, breeds and levels of habitual physical activity and the angles of the tarsal joints studied ranged between maximal flexion (16.4°) and maximal extension (159.1°). Regardless of tarsal angle, the CTB articulated with the calcaneus exclusively at the level of its plantar process (PPCTB) in all dogs. The PPCTB presented two distinct parts in all dogs, a head and a neck. The calcaneus tended to rely on the PPCTB neck during flexion and on the PPCTB head during extension. This study describes new tarsal elements for the first time, including the calcaneal articular process, the fourth tarsal bone plantar articular process and the talar plantar prominence of the CTB. Based on calcaneo-PPCTB architecture, it is postulated that the PPCTB is a keystone structure and that at least some of CTB fractures in dogs could either commence at or are induced at this level due to the impingement forces exercised by the calcaneus.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Galateanu
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany.
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Stalder GL, Petit T, Horowitz I, Hermes R, Saragusty J, Knauer F, Walzer C. Use of a medetomidine-ketamine combination for anesthesia in captive common hippopotami (Hippopotamus amphibius). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2012; 241:110-6. [PMID: 22720995 DOI: 10.2460/javma.241.1.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish an anesthetic protocol suitable for surgical interventions in hippopotami (Hippopotamus amphibius). DESIGN Prospective case series. ANIMALS 10 adult male hippopotami undergoing castration. PROCEDURES A combination of medetomidine (60 to 80 mg/kg [27.3 to 36.4 mg/lb]) and ketamine (1 mg/kg [0.45 mg/lb]) was administered IM on the basis of mean estimated weights of 1,330 ± 333 kg (2,926 ± 733 lb; median, 1,350 kg [2,790 lb]; range, 900 to 2,000 kg [1,980 to 4,400 lb]). Monitoring included sequential blood gas analyses, pulse oximetry, and capnography. Reversal of anesthesia with atipamezole (0.34 ± 0.06 mg/kg [0.15 ± 0.027 mg/lb]; median, 0.33 mg/kg [0.15 mg/lb]; range, 300 to 500 mg total dose]) was uneventful and rapid in all cases. RESULTS Complete immobilization and a surgical anesthetic plane were achieved 27 ± 11.8 minutes (median, 24.5 minutes [range, 14 to 44 minutes]) after initial injection. Anesthesia (97.3 ± 35.3 minutes; median, 95 minutes [range, 57 to 188 minutes]) was maintained with 3.4 ± 2.2 (median, 3) additional doses of ketamine (0.1 to 0.4 mg/kg [0.045 to 0.18 mg/lb]). Transitory apnea of 4.71 ± 2.87 minutes (median, 4 minutes [range, 1 to 9 minutes]) was documented in 5 animals. Apnea during anesthesia was viewed as a physiologic condition in this semiaquatic mammal because related vital parameters (heart rate, pH, peripheral hemoglobin oxygen saturation as measured by pulse oximetry, venous partial pressure of CO(2), and lactate and HCO(3) concentrations) remained unchanged and did not differ significantly than those parameters for the 5 animals with continuous respiration. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Both in captivity and in the wild, common hippopotami are difficult to anesthetize. The combination of medetomidine and ketamine provided an excellent surgical plane of anesthesia and a self-limiting dive response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle L Stalder
- Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, A-1160 Vienna, Austria.
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Hildebrandt TB, Hermes R, Saragusty J, Potier R, Schwammer HM, Balfanz F, Vielgrader H, Baker B, Bartels P, Göritz F. Enriching the captive elephant population genetic pool through artificial insemination with frozen-thawed semen collected in the wild. Theriogenology 2012; 78:1398-404. [PMID: 22898009 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2012] [Revised: 06/06/2012] [Accepted: 06/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The first successful AI in an elephant was reported in 1998, using fresh semen. Since then almost 40 calves have been produced through AI in both Asian and African elephants worldwide. Following these successes, with the objective of enriching the captive population with genetic material from the wild, we evaluated the possibility of using frozen-thawed semen collected from wild bulls for AI in captivity. Semen, collected from a 36-yr-old wild African savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana) in South Africa was frozen using the directional freezing technique. This frozen-thawed semen was used for four inseminations over two consecutive days, two before and two after ovulation, in a 26-yr-old female African savanna elephant in Austria. Insemination dose of 1200 × 10(6) cells per AI with 61% motility resulted in pregnancy, which was confirmed through ultrasound examination 75, 110 and 141 days after the AI procedure. This represents the first successful AI using wild bull frozen-thawed semen in elephants. The incorporation of AI with frozen-thawed semen into the assisted reproduction toolbox opens the way to preserve and transport semen between distant individuals in captivity or, as was done in this study, between wild and captive populations, without the need to transport stressed or potentially disease-carrying animals or to remove animals from the wild. In addition, cryopreserved spermatozoa, in combination with AI, are useful methods to extend the reproductive lifespan of individuals beyond their biological lifespan and an important tool for genetic diversity management and phenotype selection in these endangered mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- T B Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.
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Saragusty J. What do you mean when you say large volume cryoprotectant-free vitrification? Clin Lab 2012; 58:591-592. [PMID: 22783594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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Bouts T, Hermes R, Gasthuys F, Saragusty J, Taylor P, Routh A, Hildebrandt TB. Medetomidine-ketamine-isoflurane anaesthesia in pygmy hippopotami (Choeropsis liberiensis)--a case series. Vet Anaesth Analg 2011; 39:111-8. [PMID: 22103592 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-2995.2011.00671.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
HISTORY Medical knowledge of pygmy hippopotami is limited. Anaesthesia has been considered a challenge because of the anatomy, semi-aquatic life style and aggressive behaviour. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) has been described and can contribute to active kidney disease potentially affecting anaesthesia. PHYSICAL EXAMINATION AND MANAGEMENT: Fourteen pygmy hippopotami were anaesthetized for general health assessment and reproductive procedures. Animals (estimated bodyweight 250 kg) were darted intramuscularly with 0.08 mg kg(-1) medetomidine and 1.2 mg kg(-1) ketamine. After endotracheal intubation, anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane delivered either by circle system (100% oxygen) or by Triservice apparatus (air or air/oxygen admixture). Heart rate (HR) respiratory rate (f(R) ), oxygen saturation (SpO(2)) and end tidal CO(2) were recorded at 5-minute intervals. Atipamezole was administered intramuscularly (0.4 mg kg(-1)) at the end of the procedure. Statistical analysis was performed using anova (p < 0.05). Most animals rapidly became recumbent although five hippopotami needed additional drugs to assure acceptable immobilization. There were no statistical differences in mean HR between animals with or without PKD (PKD: 34 ± 8 beats minutes(-1); no PKD: 33 ± 6 beats minutes(-1)), f(R) (PKD: 15 ± 7 breaths minutes(-1); no PKD; 12 ± 5 breaths minutes(-1)) and end tidal CO(2) (PKD: 7.1 ± 1.3 kPa; no PKD: 7.8 ± 1.4 kPa). SpO(2) was higher in animals receiving 100% oxygen or air with oxygen (92 ± 8% and 91 ± 9% respectively) compared with animals receiving air only (77 ± 5%) (p = 0.003). Recovery was uneventful after atipamezole administration. FOLLOW-UP There were no apparent adverse effects after anaesthesia during a 24-hour follow-up period. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Medetomidine-ketamine-isoflurane induced satisfactory anaesthesia in this species. Incremental induction doses were related to remote injection and the animals' thick skin. There were no differences in anaesthetic parameters in animals with or without PKD. Supplemental oxygen should be mandatory during anaesthesia in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Bouts
- Zoological Society London, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, Veterinary Department, Whipsnade, Bedfordshire, UK.
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Abstract
Preservation of female genetics is currently done primarily by means of oocyte and embryo cryopreservation. The field has seen much progress during its four-decade history, progress driven predominantly by research in humans, cows, and mice. Two basic cryopreservation techniques rule the field – controlled-rate freezing, the first to be developed, and vitrification, which, in recent years, has gained a foothold. While much progress has been achieved in human medicine, the cattle industry, and in laboratory animals, this is far from being the case for most other mammals and even less so for other vertebrates. The major strides and obstacles in human and other vertebrate oocyte and embryo cryopreservation will be reviewed here.
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Saragusty J, Hildebrandt T, Bouts T, Göritz F, Hermes R. Collection and preservation of pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis) semen. Theriogenology 2010; 74:652-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2009] [Revised: 02/15/2010] [Accepted: 03/07/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Saragusty J, Walzer C, Petit T, Stalder G, Horowitz I, Hermes R. Cooling and freezing of epididymal sperm in the common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius). Theriogenology 2010; 74:1256-63. [PMID: 20615541 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2010] [Revised: 05/21/2010] [Accepted: 05/21/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge concerning reproduction in common hippopotamus is scarce and in particular very little is known about male reproductive physiology and sperm cryopreservation. Testes were obtained from nine castrated bulls and sperm extracted from the epididymides of eight of these individuals. Mean ± SEM values of reproductive parameters were: testicular weight (including epididymis and tunicas)--275.9 ± 54.1 g, total sperm motility--88.1 ± 4.2%, total cells extracted--11.0 ± 3.6 × 10(9), intact acrosome--87.7 ± 1.8%, intact sperm morphology--51.6 ± 4.1%, and, for 3 individuals, hypoosmotic swelling test for membrane integrity-83.3 ± 1.8%. Chilled storage extenders tested were Berliner Cryomedium (BC), Biladyl(®), modification of Kenney modified Tyrode's medium (KMT), and Human Sperm Refrigeration Medium (HSRM). Extender had significant effect on post-dilution motility and motility and intact morphology after 4h and 24h at 4°C (P ≤ 0.007 for all). Berliner Cryomedium and HSRM were superior to Biladyl(®) and KMT. Freezing extenders tested were BC with either 6% dimethyl sulfoxide (Me(2)SO), or 5%, 7%, or 10% glycerol. Post-thaw motility was < 5% in 3/7 bulls in all extenders. When frozen in BC with 6% Me(2)SO, one bull had 15% post-thaw motility and 3/7 had 20 to 60%. In glycerol, 3/7 had 15-30% post-thaw motility in 5%, 2/7 in 7%, and 1/7 in 10%. The extender had significant effect on post-chilling motility (P = 0.008), post-thaw morphology (P = 0.016), and motility 30 min after thawing (P = 0.015). Berliner Cryomedium with 6% Me(2)SO or 7% glycerol were the freezing extenders of choice. Information obtained in this study allows initiation of cryobanking of sperm from the common hippopotamus which is of particular importance for genetically valuable individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Saragusty
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany.
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Abstract
To achieve the ultimate goal of both cryosurgery and cryopreservation, a thorough understanding of the processes responsible for cell and tissue damage is desired. The general belief is that cells are damaged primarily due to osmotic effects at slow cooling rates and intracellular ice formation at high cooling rates, together termed the "two factor theory." The present study deals with a third, largely ignored component--mechanical damage. Using pooled bull sperm cells as a model and directional freezing in large volumes, samples were frozen in the presence or absence of glass balls of three different diameters: 70-110, 250-500, and 1,000-1,250 microm, as a means of altering the surface area with which the cells come in contact. Post-thaw evaluation included motility at 0 h and after 3 h at 37 degrees C, viability, acrosome integrity, and hypoosmotic swelling test. Interactions among glass balls, sperm cells, and ice crystals were observed by directional freezing cryomicroscopy. Intra-container pressure in relation to volume was also evaluated. The series of studies presented here indicate that the higher the surface area with which the cells come in contact, the greater the damage, possibly because the cells are squeezed between the ice crystals and the surface. We further demonstrate that with a decrease in volume, and thus increase in surface area-to-volume ratio, the intra-container pressure during freezing increases. It is suggested that large volume freezing, given that heat dissipation is solved, will inflict less cryodamage to the cells than the current practice of small volume freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel.
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Saragusty J, Gacitua H, Zeron Y, Rozenboim I, Arav A. Double freezing of bovine semen. Anim Reprod Sci 2009; 115:10-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2008] [Revised: 10/30/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Hermes R, Göritz F, Portas TJ, Bryant BR, Kelly JM, Maclellan LJ, Keeley T, Schwarzenberger F, Walzer C, Schnorrenberg A, Spindler RE, Saragusty J, Kaandorp S, Hildebrandt TB. Ovarian superstimulation, transrectal ultrasound-guided oocyte recovery, and IVF in rhinoceros. Theriogenology 2009; 72:959-68. [PMID: 19720394 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2008] [Revised: 06/12/2009] [Accepted: 06/27/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Numerous reports on reproductive pathology in all rhinoceros species illustrate the abundance of female infertility in captive populations. In infertile rhinoceroses, oocyte collection and embryo production could represent the best remaining option for these animals to reproduce and to contribute to the genetic pool. We report here on superstimulation, repeated oocyte recovery, and attempted in vitro fertilization (IVF) in white and black rhinoceroses. Four anestrous rhinoceroses (two white, two black) with unknown follicular status were treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue, deslorelin acetate, for 6 to 7 d. Number and size of follicles in superstimulated females was significantly higher and larger compared with those in nonstimulated anestrous females (n=9). Ovum pick-up was achieved by transrectal ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration. Up to 15 follicles were aspirated per ovary. During six ovum pick-ups, a total of 29 cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were harvested with a range of 2 to 9 COCs per collection. No postsurgical complications were noted on the rhinoceros ovaries using this minimally invasive approach. Various in vitro maturation (IVM) and IVF protocols were tested on the collected COCs. Despite the low total number of COCs available for IVM and IVF in this study, we can report the first rhinoceros embryo ever produced in vitro. The production of a 4-cell embryo demonstrated the potential of transrectal ultrasound-guided oocyte recovery as a valuable tool for in vitro production of rhinoceros embryos from otherwise infertile females.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, PF 601103, Berlin, Germany.
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Hermes R, Behr B, Hildebrandt TB, Blottner S, Sieg B, Frenzel A, Knieriem A, Saragusty J, Rath D. Sperm sex-sorting in the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus). Anim Reprod Sci 2009; 112:390-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2008] [Revised: 04/16/2008] [Accepted: 05/08/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Bruchim Y, Loeb E, Saragusty J, Aroch I. Pathological Findings in Dogs with Fatal Heatstroke. J Comp Pathol 2009; 140:97-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2008.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2007] [Accepted: 07/17/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Hermes R, Göritz F, Saragusty J, Sós E, Molnar V, Reid C, Schwarzenberger F, Hildebrandt T. First successful artificial insemination with frozen-thawed semen in rhinoceros. Theriogenology 2009; 71:393-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2008] [Revised: 10/22/2008] [Accepted: 10/22/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Saragusty J, Hermes R, Göritz F, Schmitt DL, Hildebrandt TB. Skewed birth sex ratio and premature mortality in elephants. Anim Reprod Sci 2008; 115:247-54. [PMID: 19058933 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2008] [Revised: 10/24/2008] [Accepted: 10/24/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Sex allocation theories predict equal offspring number of both sexes unless differential investment is required or some competition exists. Left undisturbed, elephants reproduce well and in approximately even numbers in the wild. We report an excess of males are born and substantial juvenile mortality occurs, perinatally, in captivity. Studbook data on captive births (CB, n=487) and premature deaths (PD, <5 years of age; n=164) in Asian and African elephants in Europe and North America were compared with data on Myanmar timber (Asian) elephants (CB, n=3070; PD, n=738). Growth in CB was found in three of the captive populations. A significant excess of male births occurred in European Asian elephants (ratio: 0.61, P=0.044) and in births following artificial insemination (0.83, P=0.003), and a numerical inclination in North American African elephants (0.6). While juvenile mortality in European African and Myanmar populations was 21-23%, it was almost double (40-45%) in all other captive populations. In zoo populations, 68-91% of PD were within 1 month of birth with stillbirth and infanticide being major causes. In Myanmar, 62% of juvenile deaths were at >6 months with maternal insufficient milk production, natural hazards and accidents being the main causes. European Asian and Myanmar elephants PD was biased towards males (0.71, P=0.024 and 0.56, P<0.001, respectively). The skewed birth sex ratio and high juvenile mortality hinder efforts to help captive populations become self-sustaining. Efforts should be invested to identify the mechanism behind these trends and seek solutions for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke Strasse 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany.
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Bruchim Y, Aroch I, Saragusty J, Waner T. Disseminated intravascular coagulation. Compend Contin Educ Vet 2008; 30:E3. [PMID: 23705143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a serious, life-threatening condition in humans and animals.A secondary complication in a variety of disorders, it is a complex syndrome in which excessive intravascular coagulation leads to microthromboses in and consequential failure of multiple organs with concurrent paradoxical bleeding due to inactivation and excessive consumption of platelets and clotting factors. This article discusses the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of DIC in dogs and cats. Novel treatments and laboratory tests, some of which are still being experimentally evaluated, are also discussed.
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Hermes R, Saragusty J, Schaftenaar W, Göritz F, Schmitt D, Hildebrandt T. Obstetrics in elephants. Theriogenology 2008; 70:131-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2008] [Revised: 04/03/2008] [Accepted: 04/04/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Buber T, Saragusty J, Ranen E, Epstein A, Bdolah-Abram T, Bruchim Y. Evaluation of lidocaine treatment and risk factors for death associated with gastric dilatation and volvulus in dogs: 112 cases (1997–2005). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2007; 230:1334-9. [PMID: 17472559 DOI: 10.2460/javma.230.9.1334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine clinical features, outcome, risk factors for death, and efficacy of IV administration of lidocaine as a prophylactic treatment for ischemic reperfusion injury in gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) in dogs. DESIGN Retrospective case series. ANIMALS 112 dogs with GDV. PROCEDURES Data pertaining to breed; time lag to admission; clinical, clinicopathologic, and surgical findings; lidocaine treatment; and postoperative complications were assessed for association with outcome. RESULTS German Shepherd Dogs (28.6%) and Great Danes (17%) were significantly over-represented. Risk factors for death included time lag (> or = 5 hours vs < 5 hours) from onset of clinical signs to admission (46.0% vs 11.3%), rectal temperature (< or = 38 degrees C vs > 38 degrees C [< 100.4 degrees F vs > 100.4 degrees F]) at admission (40.0% vs 14.9%), presence or absence of ARF (67.0% vs 23.3%), presence or absence of suspected gastric wall necrosis (59.3% vs 16.0%), and untreated gastric wall necrosis, compared with treated gastric wall necrosis (100% vs 47.6%). Overall mortality rate was 26.8%; no significant differences were detected in mortality rate or postoperative complications between dogs that received lidocaine IV prior to surgical intervention (52.0%) and dogs that did not (48.0%). Mean +/- SD hospitalization time was longer in the lidocaine treatment group (3.5 +/- 1.9 days vs 2.5 +/- 1.4 days). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Presence of the identified risk factors should warrant aggressive treatment. Lidocaine treatment was not associated with mortality rate or postoperative complications, but was associated with prolonged hospitalization time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tali Buber
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Quality Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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Saragusty J, Gacitua H, King R, Arav A. Post-mortem semen cryopreservation and characterization in two different endangered gazelle species (Gazella gazella and Gazella dorcas) and one subspecies (Gazella gazelle acaiae). Theriogenology 2006; 66:775-84. [PMID: 16530260 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2006.01.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2005] [Revised: 01/16/2006] [Accepted: 01/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Both Gazella gazella and Gazella dorcas are endangered species with continually dwindling population size, yet basic knowledge on their spermatozoa is missing. Semen collected post-mortem (PM) from the cauda epididymis of five adult gazelles (three Gazella gazella gazella, one Gazella gazella acaiae and one G. dorcas) was cryopreserved using directional freezing of large volumes (8 mL) with egg-yolk-free extender. Sperm size measurements and SYBR-14/propodium iodide (PI) viability stain validation for use in gazelles were conducted. Post-thaw characterization included motility, viability, acrosome damage evaluation, computerized motility characterization and morphology and sperm motility index (SMI) was calculated. Extracted sperm motility was 71.67+/-11.67% (mean+/-S.E.M.). Post-thaw motility ranged between 15% and 63%, viability was 57.49+/-3.24%, intact acrosome was detected in 63.74+/-2.6% (median 64.8%, upper/lower quartiles 71.79%, 61.82%), and normal morphology ranged between 41% and 63%. Motility characterization showed two sub-groups-highly active and progressively motile spermatozoa with SMI of 62.75+/-0.38 and low activity and poorly progressive with SMI of 46.16+/-1.53. Our results indicate that PM preservation of gazelle spermatozoa with satisfactory post-thaw viability is possible and cryobanking is achievable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Quality Sciences, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 76000, Israel
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Bruchim Y, Klement E, Saragusty J, Finkeilstein E, Kass P, Aroch I. Heat stroke in dogs: A retrospective study of 54 cases (1999-2004) and analysis of risk factors for death. J Vet Intern Med 2006; 20:38-46. [PMID: 16496921 DOI: 10.1892/0891-6640(2006)20[38:hsidar]2.0.co;2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The medical records of 54 dogs presented to the Hebrew University Veterinary Teaching Hospital and diagnosed with heat stroke were retrospectively reviewed. Data abstracted included history, clinical and clinicopathological signs at admission, treatment, disease progression, and outcome. Exertional and environmental heat stroke were present in 63% (34 of 54) and 37% (20 of 54) of the dogs, respectively, and 78% (42 of 54) were examined between June and August. The mean temperature and heat discomfort index in the particular days of heat stroke were significantly increased (P < .001, P < .001, respectively) compared with their corresponding average daily values. In 27 dogs the body temperature was > or = 41 degrees C (105.8 degrees F). Belgian Malinois (15%, odds ratio [OR] = 24, 95% confidence interval [CI95%] 8.2-64.5), Golden and Labrador Retrievers (21%, OR = 2.08, CI95% 0.95-4.2), and brachycephalic breeds (25%, OR = 1.7, CI95%], 0.81-3.21) were overrepresented, whereas small breeds (<8 kg) were underrepresented (2%, OR = 0.08, CI95%, 0.002-0.48). Thrombocytopenia (45 of 54 dogs) and prolongation of the prothrombin (PT) and activated thromboplastin (aPTT) times (27 of 47 dogs) were recorded during hospitalization. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (P = .013) and acute renal failure (P = .008), diagnosed in 28 of 54 and 18 of 54 of the cases, respectively, were risk factors for death. The overall mortality rate was 50%. Hypoglycemia (<47 mg/dL, P = .003), prolonged PT (>18 seconds, P = .05), and aPTT (>30 sec, P < .001) at admission were associated with death. Serum creatinine >1.5 mg/dL (P = .003) after 24 hours, delayed admission (>90 minutes, P = .032), seizures (P = .02), and obesity (P = .04) were also risk factors for death. Heat stroke in dogs results in serious complications and high fatality rate despite appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaron Bruchim
- School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel.
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Bruchim Y, Klement E, Saragusty J, Finkeilstein E, Kass P, Aroch I. Heat Stroke in Dogs: A Retrospective Study of 54 Cases (1999-2004) and Analysis of Risk Factors for Death. J Vet Intern Med 2006. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2006.tb02821.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Bruchim
- Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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Bruchim Y, Ranen E, Saragusty J, Aroch I. Severe tongue necrosis associated with pine processionary moth (Thaumetopoea wilkinsoni) ingestion in three dogs. Toxicon 2005; 45:443-7. [PMID: 15733565 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2004.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2004] [Accepted: 11/12/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The pine processionary moth (Thaumetopoea wilkinsoni) is an insect of medical significance in the eastern Mediterranean. This report describes three exposure cases in dogs due to ingestion of this moth's caterpillars in Israel. All three dogs were observed in direct contact with caterpillars or pinecones in infested gardens. The disease course and progression of signs were acute in all three cases, and included vomiting and severe tongue swelling. Physical examination findings included hyperthermia, tachypnoea, respiratory distress, cyanosis and tongue oedema, labial angioedema, ptyalism, bilateral submandibular lymphadenomegaly and conjunctivitis. Severe tongue necrosis and sloughing of its distal portion occurred 2-5 days after admission to the hospital. All dogs recovered and were discharged within 2-7 days of admission. Two staff members, attending one of the dogs, experienced an itchy rash and wheals on their arms, wrists and necks. To the best of our knowledge, this should be the first report of severe oral lesions and tongue necrosis due to contact with T. wilkinsoni caterpillars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Bruchim
- School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
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Saragusty J, Hildebrandt TB, Natan Y, Hermes R, Yavin S, Goeritz F, Arav A. Effect of egg-phosphatidylcholine on the chilling sensitivity and lipid phase transition of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) spermatozoa. Zoo Biol 2005. [DOI: 10.1002/zoo.20045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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