Comparison of the patterns of antral follicular development between hormonally synchronized and natural estrous cycles of non-seasonal,polyestrous goats in the tropics

The effects of estrus synchronization with prostaglandin F_2α (PGF_2α) and Controlled Internal Drug Release Device (CIDR) on ensuing antral follicular development were documented and compared to natural estrous cycles of non-seasonal tropical goats. Two to six follicular waves were observed, with the three-follicular wave pattern being most frequently observed (58%), followed by four follicular waves (31.6%) per estrous cycle. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the PGF_2α- or CIDR-synchronized and natural estrous cycles nor between the synchronized and subsequent non-synchronized cycles in terms of the time of ovulation, the duration of inter-ovulatory intervals, daily numbers of antral follicles ≥3 mm in diameter, and the number of follicular waves per cycle in the goats of the present study.     

Embryo recovery from exercised mares

The effect of exercise on mare reproductive efficiency was evaluated by comparing rates of embryo recovery from mares assigned to either an exercise regimen or a non-exercise (control) regimen. Exercised mares were worked daily for 30 min under average ambient conditions of >30 °C and >50% humidity. Mares were inseminated during estrus and subjected to uterine flush for embryo recovery on d 7 after ovulation for two consecutive cycles. After this, mares were allocated to the opposite group and allowed an estrous cycle without reproductive manipulation; then insemination and uterine flushing were conducted on two more consecutive cycles. Prostaglandin F_2α was administered on the day of uterine flush. Mare rectal temperature increased during exercise from a mean of 38 °C to a mean of 39.9 °C. Mares had ovulations from smaller follicles when exercised than they did under control conditions (39.8 ± 0.5 compared with 41.5 ± 0.5 mm diameter; P < 0.05), and had an increased time from PGF_2α administration to subsequent ovulation (8.47 ± 0.337 compared with 9.27 ± 0.294 d; P < 0.05). Embryo recovery from control mares was 22 of 35 (63%). Fewer embryos were recovered from exercised mares (11 of 32, 34%; P < 0.05). The proportion of embryos classified as Grade 1 tended to be less in exercised than in non-exercised mares (4 of 11, 36% compared with 16 of 22, 73%; P = 0.051). These data indicate that exercising mares in a hot and humid environment are associated with changes in ovarian follicle development and ovulation, and a reduction in embryo recovery.     

Early effects of equine FSH (eFSH) treatment on hormonal and reproductive parameters in mares intended to carry their own pregnancy

Superovulatory treatment may potentially increase the embryo recovery rate and the per-cycle pregnancy rate in normal or subfertile mares that are managed properly. However, some studies suggest a possible negative effect of superovulatory treatment on ovarian follicular maturation and embryo viability. Objectives of the present study were to investigate the early effects of eFSH treatment in reproductively normal mares in terms of: folliculogenesis, pregnancy rate, early embryonic development, reproductive tract parameters (tone and edema), and serum estradiol-17β and progesterone concentrations. Reproductively sound mares (n = 26) were evaluated daily by transrectal palpation and ultrasonography. Five days after spontaneous ovulation, mares were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups. In the eFSH group, mares (n = 16 estrous cycles) were administered eFSH twice daily; beginning when a follicle ≥20 mm was detected, and continuing until at least one follicle reached a diameter of ≥35 mm. PGF2α was administered 2 days following initiation of eFSH therapy, and hCG was administered approximately 36 h after cessation of eFSH therapy. In the control group, mares (n = 26 estrous cycles) were administered PGF2α 7 days after spontaneous ovulation, and hCG when a follicle ≥35 mm was detected. All mares were bred with fresh semen, monitored for ovulation (Day 0), and evaluated for pregnancy on Days 11–16. Serum estradiol-17β and progesterone concentrations were analyzed using radioimmunoassay on the Day of hCG administration, and Days 8, 11 and 16. Mares treated with eFSH had more follicles ≥30 mm at the time of hCG administration (2.6 ± 0.4 compared with 1.1 ± 0.1; P < 0.01), and more ovulations (2.3 ± 0.5 compared with 1.1 ± 0.3; P < 0.01). However, pregnancy rates were not significantly different between groups (50%; 8/16 compared with 62%; 16/26). Mean overall daily growth rate of embryonic vesicles from Day 11 to 16 was not statistically different between the two groups (3.3 ± 0.3 compared with 3.7 ± 0.1 mm/day) (P = 0.2); however, was more variable (P < 0.01) in the eFSH group (95%CI: 2.6–3.8 mm/day) than in the control group (95%CI: 3.5–3.9 mm/day). Administration of eFSH modified the reproductive tract variables and serum concentrations of progesterone and estradiol-17β on the days that oocyte maturation, fertilization, and early embryonic development are expected to occur. These alterations may be related to the greater incidence of non-ovulatory follicles (25% compared with 0%), fewer embryos per ovulation rate (0.3 ± 0.1 compared with 0.6 ± 0.1), and the lesser than expected pregnancy rates in the eFSH-treated mares.     

Follicular waves during the oestrous cycle in Nili-Ravi buffaloes undergoing spontaneous and PGF2alpha-induced luteolysis

The objective of this study was to characterize the follicular waves and associated ovarian events during spontaneous and PGF(2alpha)-induced oestrous cycles in Nili-Ravi buffaloes. In Exp. 1, (n=13 oestrous cycles) follicular and luteal development was monitored by ultrasonography and jugular blood samples were collected simultaneously on alternate days. Of 12 oestrous cycles, 9 (75%) had two waves of follicular activity and only 3 (25%) had three waves. The mean (+/-S.E.M.) length of the oestrous cycle was shorter (P<0.05) in buffaloes with two waves than in those with three waves (21.2+/-0.1 days versus 22.8+/-0.1 days). In Exp. 2, follicular dynamics were compared in buffaloes undergoing spontaneous (n=12 oestrous cycles) and PGF(2alpha)-induced (n=9) regression of the corpus luteum (CL). The dynamics of ovulatory follicular growth during the 3 days before oestrus were similar (P>0.05) in buffaloes undergoing spontaneous and PGF(2alpha)-induced luteolysis. These results show that (1) the majority of buffaloes had a two wave pattern of follicular growth and emergence of a third wave was associated with a longer luteal phase, and (2) follicular dynamics during the 3 days before oestrus were similar in buffaloes undergoing spontaneous and PGF(2alpha)-induced luteolysis.     

Delayed treatment with GnRH agonist, hCG and progesterone and reduced embryonic mortality in buffaloes

The present study examined the effect of delayed treatment with tropic hormones and progesterone (P₄) on embryonic mortality in buffaloes. Buffaloes with a conceptus on Day 25 after AI were assigned to the following treatments: Control (n = 41), i.m. physiological saline; GnRH agonist (n = 36), i.m. 12 μg buserelin acetate; hCG (n = 33), i.m. 1500 IU hCG; P₄ (n = 38), i.m. 341 mg P₄ every 4 days on three occasions. Control buffaloes had an embryonic mortality of 41.4% (17/41) between Days 25 and 45, and this was reduced (P < 0.01) by treatment with GnRH agonist (11.1%, 4/36), hCG (9.0%, 3/33) and P₄ (13.1%, 5/38). On Day 45, buffaloes treated with hCG and which ovulated had greater (P < 0.05) concentrations of P₄ in whey (453 ± 41 pg/ml) than buffaloes in the same treatment that did not ovulate (297 ± 32 pg/ml). A similar but non-significant trend was observed for buffaloes treated with GnRH agonist. It was concluded from the findings that the treatment of buffaloes on Day 25 after AI with tropic hormones or P₄ is beneficial to processes associated with embryonic implantation.     

The efficacy of recombinant equine follicle stimulating hormone (reFSH) to promote follicular growth in mares using a follicular suppression model

The efficacy of a recently engineered single chain recombinant equine follicle stimulating hormone (reFSH) was investigated in estrous cycling mares whose gonadotropins and follicular activity had been suppressed by concurrent treatment with progesterone and estradiol (P&E). Time of estrus was synchronized in 15 estrous cycling mares during the breeding season with prostaglandins F_2α (PGF_2α). The day after ovulation, mares were treated once daily with P&E for 14 days. Mares received a second injection of PGF_2α on day 6 of the synchronized estrous cycle to induce luteolysis. On day 8 post-ovulation mares were randomly assigned to three groups: small dose reFSH-treatment group (0.5 mg reFSH IV, twice daily); large dose reFSH-treatment group (0.85 mg reFSH IV twice daily); control group (saline IV, twice daily). reFSH treatment occurred concurrently with the last week of P&E treatment. After a follicle or cohort of follicles reached 35 mm in diameter, mares were injected with 0.75 mg of recombinant equine luteinizing hormone (reLH) to induce ovulation. Post-treatment ovulation was assessed. Daily blood samples were collected for analysis of FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone, and inhibin by radioimmunoassay (RIA). On the first day of reFSH/saline treatment, blood samples were collected periodically from 1 h prior to treatment to 6 h post-injection via an indwelling jugular catheter to determine acute changes in FSH concentrations. Monitoring of follicular activity, estrus, and ovulation was performed daily by utilizing a stallion and transrectal ultrasonography.A difference (p ≤ 0.05) between the largest diameter follicle in the reFSH-treatment groups compared to controls occurred on day 14 post-ovulation, the day treatments ended, and the difference continued until day 21 post-ovulation. reFSH-treatment groups had larger (p ≤ 0.05) numbers of 20–29 mm follicles (days 13–18), 30–34 mm follicles (days 15–20) and ≥35 mm follicles (days 16–21) than controls. Mares treated with reFSH, at either dose, took less time (average: 2.95 ± 0.42 days) to develop 2–3 times more pre-ovulatory follicles than control mares (7.8 ± 0.51 days) (p ≤ 0.05). The number of ovulations between treated mares and controls were similar due to a greater incidence of ovulation failure in reFSH-treated mares. During reFSH treatment, concentrations of plasma FSH, inhibin and estradiol were greater (p ≤ 0.05) compared to control concentrations. Plasma LH concentrations in reFSH-treated mares were suppressed and did not exhibit the ovulatory surge of controls (p ≤ 0.05). Plasma progesterone concentrations were not different across groups.These findings demonstrate the specific effects of reFSH to increase number of total follicles including pre-ovulatory follicles in mares with endogenous pituitary gonadotropins and follicular growth suppressed by a regimen of P&E.     

Effect of exogenous administration of buffalo follicular fluid on follicular development, estrus response and luteal function in anoestrous goats (Capra hircus)

The effect of buffalo follicular fluid (buFF) on follicular development, estrus response and luteal function was investigated in anoestrous does. Treatment with buFF (18 ml/doe) had no significant effect on the number of antral follicles of all class categories during the period of administration. However, after cessation of buFF treatment, the number of total antral follicles increased significantly with time (P < 0.003) as well as due to the treatment × time interaction (P < 0.02), without any influence on follicle size. Injection of buFF also caused a marked increase (P < 0.049) with time in the number of medium-sized follicles at cessation. Approximately 60 and 20% of buFF-treated anoestrous does showed behavioural and silent estrus, respectively, compared to none in the control. The mean interval between cessation of buFF treatment to onset of oestrus and oestrus duration was 67.0 ± 18.5 and 17.0 ± 3.6 h, respectively. Corpus lutea size varied between 4.6 and 5.8 mm with an average diameter of 5.2 ± 0.3 mm. Only 33.3% of does showed serum progesterone levels above 1 ng/ml, while the remainder (66.7%) had below 0.5 ng/ml. Our results indicate that exogenous administration of buFF causes enhanced follicular activity following cessation of treatment, which results in behavioural oestrus and corpus luteum (CL) development in anoestrous does. CL development and its function is, however, inadequate in buFF-treated anoestrous does.     

Interrelationships among morphology, echotexture, and function of the bovine corpus luteum during the estrous cycle

It has been suggested that ultrasound image attributes are a potential indicator of physiological and functional status of the corpus luteum (CL) in several species, including cattle. The aims of this study were to evaluate CL morphological, functional and echotextural characteristics, and also to investigate the hypothesis that those attributes are correlated and change similarly throughout an estrous cycle. Ovaries of crossbred (Bos taurus taurus × Bos taurus indicus) heifers were evaluated using ultrasonography daily throughout an interestrus interval using a B-mode, real-time ultrasound machine equipped with a 5 MHz linear-array rectal transducer, during a natural estrous cycle (Experiment 1; n = 12) or during a shortened cycle, with luteolysis induction 10 d after estrus (Experiment 2; n = 6). Blood samples were collected for assay of plasma progesterone concentrations. Corpora lutea areas were measured and daily images of each CL were videotaped and digitized for computer-assisted analysis using custom-developed software. In Experiment 1, area of luteal tissue increased until a maximum value 10 d after estrus (P < 0.001), followed by a plateau phase, and then a decline beginning 14 d after estrus. Luteal tissue area was highly correlated to plasma progesterone concentrations (r = 0.86; P < 0.001). When luteolysis was induced in Experiment 2, loss of CL function (decrease in plasma progesterone concentrations to metestrous values) preceded tissue regression by 48 h (24 h compared with 72 h; P < 0.001). The mean pixel value of ultrasound images did not change in Experiment 1 (P > 0.70), but a day effect on this attribute was observed in Experiment 2 (P = 0.052). In contrast, mean pixel value was correlated to plasma progesterone concentrations in Experiment 1 (r = −0.63; P < 0.05), but not in Experiment 2 (r = −0.28; P > 0.10). In regard to CL heterogeneity, defined as the standard deviation of the mean pixel value of the luteal tissue, a time effect was observed following both natural (Experiment 1; P < 0.009) and luteolysis-induced (Experiment 2; P < 0.05) estrous cycles (P < 0.05). Moreover, this variable was correlated with plasma progesterone concentrations (r = −0.71 and −0.58 in Experiments 1 and 2, respectively; P < 0.01), indicating that CL images were more heterogeneous during metestrus and after luteolysis (functional regression). In summary, morphological and echotextural attributes were correlated with CL function and underwent similar changes during the estrous cycle. Luteal tissue heterogeneity, assessed by ultrasonography, is considered a potential indicator of CL functional status, because it is correlated to circulating progesterone concentrations.     

The cryoprotective effect of trehalose supplementation on boar spermatozoa quality

The objective was to compare the reproductive performances associated with the first (Cycle-1), second (Cycle-2), and mid-season (MS-Cycle) ovulations of the breeding season in donor mares that were treated with equine-FSH (eFSH) in the early vernal transition. Mares (n = 15) kept under ambient light were examined ultrasonographically per-rectum starting January 30. When an ovarian follicle ≥25 mm in diameter was detected, twice daily eFSH treatments were initiated. The eFSH treatments ceased when a follicle ≥35 mm was detected, and 36 h later hCG was administered. Thereafter, mares were artificially inseminated every 48 h until ovulation (Day 0). Trans-cervical embryo recovery attempts were performed on Day 8, and subsequently PGF2α was administered. Equine FSH was not administered in the subsequent estrous cycles. In Cycle-2 and in the MS-Cycle, hCG was administered when a follicle ≥35 mm was detected; breeding, embryo recovery, and PGF2α administration, were similar to Cycle-1. Mares had an untreated estrous cycle (no treatment or breeding) between Cycle-2 and the MS-Cycle. All mares developed follicle(s) ≥35 mm after 4.9 ± 0.6 days of eFSH treatment, and subsequently ovulations occurred; mean (95% CI) interval from treatment initiation to ovulation was 7.9 (6.5–9.3) days. The number of preovulatory follicles (≥30 mm) at the time of hCG administration (Cycle-1: 2.2 ± 0.3 compared with Cycle-2: 1.0 ± 0 compared with MS-Cycle: 1.1 ± 0.1 follicles), and the number of ovulations (2.5 ± 0.4 compared with 1.0 ± 0 compared with 1.1 ± 0.1 ovulations) were greater (p < 0.05) in Cycle-1. Nevertheless, mean embryo numbers did not differ among cycles (0.8 ± 0.2 compared with 0.5 ± 0.1 compared with 0.5 ± 0.1 embryo/mare). On average, embryo morphology grade was less (p < 0.05) in Cycle-1 as compared to non-eFSH cycles (combined Cycle-2 and MS-Cycle). This impaired embryo quality could be due to a seasonal effect, or negative effect of the eFSH treatment, which was possibly related to alterations in the hormonal environment (estradiol-17β and progesterone). A prolonged IOI (>21 days) was recorded in 7 of 15 mares following the Cycle-1 ovulation, but not subsequently. In conclusion, eFSH treatment of vernal transitional donor mares stimulated ovulation within only few days of treatment, and the following embryo recovery rate was at least as good as in the subsequent estrous cycles; however, on average, embryos were morphologically impaired. In subsequent estrous cycles in the breeding season, ovulations, embryo recovery rates, and embryo variables did not appear to be negatively affected; however, the first inter-ovulatory interval of the breeding season was prolonged in approximately half of the mares.     

Strategies to improve fertility in Bos indicus postpubertal heifers and nonlactating cows submitted to fixed-time artificial insemination

Two experiments were designed to evaluate strategies to increase fertility of Bos indicus postpubertal heifers and nonlactating cows submitted to a fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI) protocol consisting of an intravaginal device containing 1.9 g of progesterone (CIDR) insertion + estradiol benzoate on Day 0, CIDR withdrawal + estradiol cypionate on Day 9, and TAI on Day 11. In Experiment 1, heifers (n = 1153) received a new or an 18-d previously used CIDR and, on Day 9, prostaglandin F_2α (PGF_2α) + 0, 200, or 300 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG). Heifers treated with a new CIDR had greater (least squares means ± SEM) serum concentration of progesterone on Day 9 (3.06 ± 0.09 ng/mL vs. 2.53 ± 0.09 ng/mL; P < 0.05) and a smaller follicle at TAI (11.61 ± 0.11 mm vs. 12.05 ± 0.12 mm; P < 0.05). Heifers with smaller follicles at TAI had lesser serum progesterone concentrations on Day 18 and reduced rates of ovulation, conception, and pregnancy (P < 0.05). Treatment with eCG improved (P < 0.05) follicle diameter at TAI (11.50 ± 0.10 mm, 11.90 ± 0.11 mm, and 12.00 ± 0.10 mm for 0, 100, and 200 IU, respectively), serum progesterone concentration on Day 18 (2.77 ± 0.11 ng/mL, 3.81 ± 0.11 ng/mL, and 4.87 ± 0.11 ng/mL), and rates of ovulation (83.8%, 88.5%, and 94.3%) and pregnancy (41.3%, 47.0%, and 46.7%). In Experiment 2, nonlactating Nelore cows (n = 702) received PGF_2α treatment on Days 7 or 9 and, on Day 9, 0 or 300 IU eCG. Cows receiving PGF_2α on Day 7 had lesser serum progesterone concentrations on Day 9 (3.05 ± 0.21 ng/mL vs. 4.58 ± 0.21 ng/mL; P < 0.05), a larger follicle at TAI (11.54 ± 0.21 mm vs. 10.84 ± 0.21 mm; P < 0.05), and improved (P < 0.05) rates of ovulation (85.4% vs. 77.0%), conception (60.9% vs. 47.2%), and pregnancy (52.0% vs. 36.4%). Treatment with eCG improved (P < 0.05) serum progesterone concentration on Day 18 (3.24 ± 0.14 ng/mL vs. 4.55 ± 0.14 ng/mL) and the rates of ovulation (72.4% vs. 90.0%) and pregnancy (37.5% vs. 50.8%). In conclusion, giving PGF_2α earlier in the protocol in nonlactating cows and eCG treatment in postpubertal heifers and nonlactating cows improved fertility in response to a TAI (progesterone + estradiol) protocol.     

Risk factors for resumption of postpartum estrous cycles and embryonic survival in lactating dairy cows

The objectives of this study were to evaluate factors associated with resumption of postpartum estrous cycles and embryonic survival in lactating dairy cows. Holstein cows, 6396 from four dairy farms were evaluated to determine the relationships among parity, body condition score (BCS) at calving and at AI, season of year when cows calved, and milk yield on resumption of postpartum estrous cycles by 65 days postpartum, and all the previous variables, estrual or anestrus and AI protocol on conception rates and embryonic survival at the first postpartum insemination. Cows had their estrous cycle pre-synchronized with two PGF_2α injections given 14 days apart and were inseminated between 69 and 82 days postpartum following either an estrous or ovulation synchronization protocol initiated 12–14 days after the presynchronization. Blood was sampled and analyzed for progesterone twice, 12–14 days apart, to determine whether cows had initiated onset of estrous cycles after calving. Cows were scored for body condition in the week after calving, and again at AI, between 69 and 82 days postpartum. Pregnancy was diagnosed at 30 ± 3 and 58 ± 3 days after AI. Farm influenced all reproductive outcomes evaluated. More (P < 0.0001) multiparous than primiparous cows had initiated estrous cycles. Onset of estrous cycles was also influenced (P < 0.01) by BCS at calving and at AI, BCS change, season, and milk yield. More (P < 0.001) cows that had initiated estrous cycles than anestrous cows were pregnant at 30 and 58 days after AI, but anestrus did not affect pregnancy loss. Conception rates were also influenced (P < 0.01) by parity, BCS at calving and AI, BCS change, and season; however, milk yield and insemination protocol were not associated with conception rates at 30 and 58 days after AI. Factors that reduced conception rate on day 30 after AI also increased pregnancy loss between 30 and 58 days of gestation. Improving BCS at calving and AI, minimizing losses of BCS after calving, and hastening onset of estrous cycles early postpartum are all expected to increase conception because of enhanced embryonic survival.     

Nutritional supplementation improves ovulation and pregnancy rates in female goats managed under natural grazing conditions and exposed to the male effect

Two experiments were conducted to determine if nutritional supplementation improved ovulation and pregnancy rates in female goats managed under grazing conditions and submitted to the male effect. In Experiment 1, one group of does did not receive nutritional supplementation, while the other group was supplemented daily for 7 days starting at the time when the males were introduced to the females. The ovulation rate at the second male-induced ovulation was greater (P < 0.05) in supplemented (2.0 ± 0.1) than in non-supplemented (1.6 ± 0.1) does. For Experiment 2, female goats were supplemented for 0, 7, 14 or 28 days, starting 9 days following buck introduction. The proportion of does that were pregnant in the group supplemented for 28 days was greater (P < 0.05) than in the non-supplemented group, but did not differ from 14-day and the 7-day supplemented groups. The proportion of pregnant does was greater (P < 0.05) in the group supplemented for 14 days compared to the group supplemented for 7 days and the non-supplemented group. These latter two groups did not differ (P > 0.05). In conclusion, feed supplementation for 7 days, starting at the time when males were introduced increased ovulation rate and feed supplementation for 14 or 28 days starting 9 days after males were introduced improved pregnancy rates in goats managed under grazing conditions and exposed to males.     

An ultrasound-aided study of temporal relationships between the patterns of LH/FSH secretion, development of ovulatory-sized antral follicles and formation of corpora lutea in ewes

To characterize the pulsatile secretion of LH and FSH and their relationships with various stages of follicular wave development (follicles growing from 3 to > or =5 mm) and formation of corpora lutea (CL), 6 Western white-faced ewes underwent ovarian ultrasonography and intensive blood sampling (every 12 min for 6 h) each day, for 10 and 8 consecutive days, commencing 1 and 2 d after estrus, respectively. Basal serum concentrations of LH and LH pulse frequency declined, whereas LH pulse duration and FSH pulse frequency increased by Day 7 after ovulation (P<0.05). LH pulse amplitude increased (P<0.05) at the end of the growth phase of the largest ovarian follicles in the first follicular wave of the cycle. The amplitude and duration of LH pulses rose (P<0.05) 1 d after CL detection. Mean and basal serum FSH concentrations increased (P<0.05) on the day of emergence of the second follicular wave, and also at the beginning of the static phase of the largest ovarian follicles in the first follicular wave of the cycle. FSH pulse frequency increased (P<0.05) during the growth phase of emergent follicles in the second follicle wave. The detection of CL was associated with a transient decrease in mean and basal serum concentrations of FSH (P<0.05), and it was followed by a transient decline in FSH pulse frequency (P<0.05). These results indicate that LH secretion during the luteal phase of the sheep estrous cycle reflects primarily the stage of development of the CL, and only a rise in LH pulse amplitude may be linked to the end of the growth phase of the largest follicles of waves. Increases in mean and basal serum concentrations of FSH are tightly coupled with the days of follicular wave emergence, and they also coincide with the end of the growth phase of the largest follicles in a previous wave, but FSH pulse frequency increases during the follicle growth phase, especially at mid-cycle.     

Metabolite contents of blood serum and fluid from small and large sized follicles in dromedary camels during the peak and the low breeding seasons

This study was undertaken to investigate serum and follicular fluid (FF) concentrations of some biochemical metabolites during the low (May to October) and the peak breeding season (November to April) in female camels with small and large follicles. For this purpose, ovaries from 92 female camels aged 3–7 years (young) or 8–15 years (adult) with clinically normal reproductive tract and slaughtered over a 24-month period were collected. Jugular blood samples and FF aspirated from small (5–9 mm) and large (10–20 mm) follicles were analyzed for various metabolite concentrations, using the commercial kits.The effect of season, age and follicular size on serum glucose levels was not significant. However, FF glucose concentration in small follicles (136.79 ± 4.05 mg/dl) was higher (P < 0.05) than that of large follicles (77.09 ± 4.31 mg/dl). Serum cholesterol contents were neither affected by the season, nor by age of the animal or the size of the ovarian follicles. The FF cholesterol concentration during the low breeding season (21.08 ± 1.11 mg/dl) was higher (P < 0.05) than 6.25 ± 1.14 mg/dl recorded during the peak breeding season. The serum and FF total protein and albumin concentrations were neither affected by the season, nor by the age of the animal or the size of the ovarian follicles. The FF globulin concentration during the peak breeding season (2.46 ± 0.06 g/dl) was higher (P < 0.05) than 1.56 ± 0.06 g/dl recorded during the low breeding season. Serum and FF activities of AST and ALT did not differ between the two seasons, age groups or follicle classes. Serum triglycerides (56.12 ± 1.28 mg/dl) and HDL (45.12 ± 0.12 mg/dl) levels during the peak breeding season were higher (P < 0.01) than 31.91 ± 1.25 and 42.60 ± 0.11 mg/dl, respectively, observed during the low breeding season. Serum and FF triglycerides were neither affected by age nor by follicle size. Serum HDL concentration was higher (P < 0.05) in adult than young camels. The concentration of HDL in FF was higher (P < 0.05) during the peak (41.92 ± 0.06 mg/dl) than the low (40.80 ± 0.06 mg/dl) breeding season. It was concluded that serum contents of triglycerides and HDL were influenced by the breeding season. Similarly, FF contents of cholesterol, globulin and HDL were influenced by season, while FF glucose contents were influenced by the size of the follicle. However, no correlation could be established between serum and follicular fluid contents of various biochemical metabolites included in the study.     

LH pulse frequency and the emergence and growth of ovarian antral follicular waves in the ewe during the luteal phase of the estrous cycle

Background  

In the ewe, ovarian antral follicles emerge or grow from a pool of 2–3 mm follicles in a wave like pattern, reaching greater than or equal to 5 mm in diameter before regression or ovulation. There are 3 or 4 such follicular waves during each estrous cycle. Each wave is preceded by a peak in serum FSH concentrations. The role of pulsatile LH in ovarian antral follicular emergence and growth is unclear; therefore, the purpose of the present study was to further define this role.     

The influence of the corpus luteum on ovarian follicular dynamics during estrous synchronization in goats

Ovarian follicular dynamics and fertility are unaffected by the presence or absence of a corpus luteum during synchronization of estrus with progestins in goats. On day 5 of the estrous cycle (estrus= day 0), a gestagen-containing sponge was inserted in the vagina for 11 days. To remove corpora lutea, one group of goats (CL-, n=41) received 7.5 mg of luprostiol on days 7 and 8 of the estrous cycle. The second group of goats retained the CL (CL+, n=38). Growth and development of follicles > or =4 mm in diameter were measured daily from onset of estrus to 2 days after subsequent ovulation in seven goats from each group, using rectal ultrasonography. Estrus was detected by the use of a reproductively sterilized buck and estrous does were subsequently mated. The number of waves of follicular development (CL- =3.57+/-0.2 versus CL+ =3.14+/-0.14; P>0.05) did not differ between groups. The second wave of follicular development was present at the time of progesterone decline in the CL- group and neither its duration (CL- =4.8+/-0.4 versus CL+=5.6+/-0.7 days; P>0.05) nor the day of commencement of the third wave of follicular development (CL -=11.6+/-0.7 versus CL+=11.8+/-0.6; P>0.05) were altered by the concentration of endogenous progesterone. The pregnancy rate was similar between the two groups. (CL-=68.29% versus CL+=65.79%; P>0.05). Thus, in goats, ovarian follicular dynamics and fertility were not altered by the presence or absence of a corpus luteum during estrous synchronization.     

Is one-wave follicular growth during the estrous cycle a usual phenomenon in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)?

The pattern of growth and regression of ovarian follicles was monitored once daily for one complete estrous cycle in eight individual water buffaloes by ultrasonographic scanning of the ovaries for an entire interovulatory interval of normal cycle length. One-wave follicular growth was observed in five animals and two-wave follicular growth in three buffaloes during the estrous cycle. The first follicular wave of a two-wave cycle emerged significantly earlier (P < 0.05) than the emergence of the solitary wave of a one-wave cycle. One- and two-wave cycles differed significantly (P < 0.05) with respect to the mean interovulatory interval (21.0 +/- 0.54 days versus 22.7 +/- 0.33 days) and the mean interestrus interval (20.8 +/- 0.58 days versus 22.3 +/- 0.66 days). The overall linear growth rate of the ovulatory follicle was significantly greater (P < 0.01) in a two-wave cycle compared to that of a one-wave cycle (1.17 +/- 0.33 mm/day versus 0.32 +/- 0.01 mm/day). In a one-wave pattern, the growth profile of the solitary dominant follicle was atypical, showing three distinct phases, i.e. growth phase, regression phase and regrowth phase culminating in ovulation. The level of plasma progesterone steadily increased from day 0 of estrous cycle, attained peak level on day 14 and declined thereafter. A slower growth rate of the dominant follicle was observed in the presence of higher plasma progesterone concentration. The present study shows that one-wave follicular growth is a normal phenomenon in suckled water buffaloes.     

Ovarian follicular dynamics during the estrous cycle in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The growth, selection, regression and ovulation of ovarian follicles was ultrasonically monitored in 30 Murrah buffalo throughout a spontaneous estrous cycle during the breeding season (autumn). Examinations revealed that follicular growth during the estrous cycle occurs in waves; the buffalo showed 1-wave (3.3%, n = 1), 2-wave (63.3%, n = 19) or 3-wave (33.3%, n = 10) follicular growth. The first wave began at 1.00, 1.16 +/-0.50 and 1.10 +/- 0.32 d in buffalo with 1, 2 and 3 waves, respectively (ovulation = Day 0). The second wave appeared at 10.83 +/- 1.09 and 9.30 +/- 1.25 d (P < 0.01) for the 2 and 3 wave cycle animals, respectively. The third wave started at 16.80 +/- 1.22 d. Structural persistence of the first dominant follicle was longer in the 2- than 3-wave cycles (20.67 +/- 1.18 vs 17.90 +/- 3.47 d ; P < 0.05). The duration of the growth and static phases of the first dominant follicle differed between the 2 and 3 wave cycles (P < 0.05), whereas there were no differences in linear growth rates (cm/d). Two and three wave cycles differed (P < 0.05) with respect to the maximum diameter of both the first dominant follicle (1.51 +/- 0.24 vs 1.33 +/- 0.18 cm) and the ovulatory follicles (1.55 +/- 0.16 vs 1.34 +/- 0.13 cm). No relationship was found between dominant follicle development and the presence of either a CL or a previous dominant follicle in either ovary. Two and three wave cycles also differed with respect to the mean length of intervals between ovulation (22.27 +/- 0.89 vs 24.50 +/- 1.88 d; P < 0.01) and the mean length of luteal phases (10.40 +/- 2.11 vs 12.66 +/- 2.91 d; P < 0.05). These results demonstrate that buffalo have estrous cycles with 1, 2 or 3 follicular waves; that 2-wave cycles are the most common; and that the number of waves in a cycle is associated with the luteal phase and with estrous cycle length.     

Complex interrelationships among CL,preovulatory follicle,number of follicular waves,and right or left ovaries in heifers

The diameter of the dominant follicle (DF) of wave 1 was studied on Days 9 to 17 (Day 0 = ovulation) in a survey of the ipsilateral and contralateral relationships between the location of the DF and CL, and number of follicular waves per interovulatory interval (IOI). For contralateral relationships, regardless of number of waves the diameter of the DF of wave 1 decreased (P < 0.03) between Days 11 and 13 when referenced to the follicle–CL relationship of wave 1 and decreased (P < 0.008) between Days 9 and 11 when referenced to the preovulatory follicle (PF)–CL relationship. For wave 2 in two-wave IOIs, the CL ovary of ipsilateral relationships had more (P < 0.05) follicles that reached at least 6 mm than the non-CL ovary. In three-wave IOIs, frequency of IOIs with the DF in the CL ovary was greater (P < 0.02) for wave 2 than for wave 3. In wave 3, the preovulatory and the largest subordinate follicles were located more frequently (P < 0.005) in the contralateral ovary. Ovulation in two-wave IOIs occurred more frequently (P < 0.0009) from the right ovary. In three-wave IOIs with a contralateral relationship ovulation occurred more frequently (P < 0.003) from the left ovary; a negative intraovarian effect of the CL on location of the PF may account for more ovulations from the left ovary and a reported greater frequency of the contralateral relationship. The hypothesis was supported that the ipsilateral versus contralateral relationship between the PF and CL is affected by the DF–CL relationship during the previous follicular waves and by the number and identity of waves per IOI.     

Relationships of changes in ultrasonographic image attributes to ovulatory and steroidogenic capacity of large antral follicles in sheep

Ovarian steroidogenesis and antral follicular development in ewes, following the treatment with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MAP) and equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG), are affected by the reproductive season. The objective of this study was to compare the ultrasonographic attributes of large antral follicles between cyclic (December) and seasonally anovular (June–July) ewes, after a 12-day treatment with MAP-soaked intravaginal sponges, with or without the administration of 500 IU of eCG at sponge removal, and to determine whether there is a correlation between the ultrasonographic attributes of the follicular wall and serum concentrations of oestradiol. Digital images of ovulatory follicles from cyclic ewes and eCG-treated anoestrous ewes (n = 34 follicles), and of anovulatory follicles attaining ≥5 mm in control anoestrous ewes (n = 8 follicles), were analysed using the spot and line techniques designed to determine the echotextural characteristics of the follicular antrum (central and peripheral), follicular wall and perifollicular ovarian stroma. The mean diameter of ovulatory follicles was greater (P < 0.001) in cyclic than anoestrous ewes, with or without the eCG treatment. The mean pixel heterogeneity (SD of numerical pixel values) of the follicular antrum (P < 0.05), as well as mean pixel intensity and heterogeneity of the peripheral antrum, follicular wall proper and perifollicular ovarian stroma (P < 0.05), were consistently greater in anoestrous than cyclic ewes at the time of sponge removal and 24 h after the treatment with MAP sponges or MAP/eCG. Mean oestradiol concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) in cyclic compared to anoestrous ewes in both MAP- and MAP/eCG-treated animals, from 1 to 2 days after sponge withdrawal. There was a moderate negative correlation (r² = 0.12, P < 0.05; Pearson's Product Moment and r² = 0.23, P < 0.05; ANCOVA) between mean pixel heterogeneity (standard deviation of mean pixel values) of the follicular wall proper (all follicles ≥5 mm in diameter) and serum concentrations of oestradiol after sponge withdrawal. Our results indicate that large antral follicles from cyclic and seasonally anovular ewes exhibit distinctive ultrasonographic characteristics. The differences in follicular echotexture appear to be related mainly to seasonal variations in ovarian follicular morphology and oestradiol production.