Administration of a single dose of 300 IU of human chorionic gonadotropin seven days after the onset of estrus improves pregnancy rate in dairy goats by an unknown mechanism.

This study examined the effects of exogenous hCG administration on ovarian function and pregnancy rates in estrous-induced dairy goats during the transition into the breeding season. Eighty-six Toggenburg does received 60 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate intravaginal sponge for 6 d plus 200 IU of equine chorionic gonadotropin and 30 µg of d-cloprostenol i.m. 24 h before sponge removal, and were then bred for 96 h. Seven days (D7) after first mating the does received either 1 mL of saline (the control group, n = 43) or 300 IU of hCG (the hCG-treated group, n = 43) i.m. Transrectal ovarian ultrasonography (B-mode and color Doppler) was performed on D7, D13, D17, and D21 and ultrasonographic pregnancy detection on D30. Pregnancy rate was higher (P < 0.05) in hCG-treated goats (90.7%; 39/43) than that in control animals (74.4%; 32/43). Accessory luteal structures (ALSs) were detected in 46.5% (20/43) of hCG-treated does. All hCG-treated does that had ALSs and 82.6% of goats without ALS post-treatment remained pregnant. The total luteal area increased (P < 0.05) from D7 to D13 in pregnant animals of both groups, whereas mean vascular area declined (P < 0.05) by D21 in all nonpregnant does. Serum progesterone concentrations increased (P < 0.05) on D21 in pregnant goats of both groups, but they were related to changes in luteal tissue content only in control does throughout the present study. Mean daily numbers of small- and medium-sized antral follicles decreased (P < 0.05) only in pregnant animals of both groups with a decline in medium follicle numbers occurring earlier in hCG-treated (D13) compared with control does (D17). To summarize, a single dose of hCG given on D7 after estrus was followed by a decrease in the number of medium-sized antral follicles in gestating hCG-treated does, induced the formation of ALSs in ~47% of all hCG-treated does, and significantly increased the pregnancy rate in estrous-induced Toggenburg goats in the transition to the breeding season.

Luteotropic effects of human chorionic gonadotropin administered 7.5 days after synchronous estrous induction in Morada Nova ewes.

This study was conducted in ewes to assess effects of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration after imposing an estrous induction treatment regimen. Ewes (n = 115) were treated with a 60 mg medroxyprogesterone-intravaginal-sponge for 6 d plus 200 IU of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) im and 37.5 µg d-cloprostenol im 36 h before sponge removal (Day 0). After natural mating, ewes having at least one corpus luteum (CL; n = 108) were administered either 1 mL of saline (G-Control; n = 53) or 300 IU of hCG (G-hCG; n = 55) on Day 7.5 after sponge removal (Day 0). Ovarian ultrasonography and blood collection were performed on Days 7.5, 13.5, 17.5, 21.5, and 30.5. Accessory CL (aCL) were observed in 81.5 % (G-hCG) and 0.0 % (G-Control) of ewes (P = 0.0001). Diameter, area, and volume of luteal tissue were greater (P < 0.05) in G-hCG from Day 13.5 to 30.5. Progesterone (P4) concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) on Days 13.5, 17.5, 21.5 and 30.5 for ewes of the G-hCG group. Pregnancy percentage was similar (P = 0.25) between groups [47.1 % (G-control) compared with 60.0 % (G-hCG)], although total number of lambs produced by estrous synchronized ewes was greater (P = 0.005) in ewes of the G-hCG group (90.9 % compared with 66.0 %). In conclusion, hCG administration 7.5 days after sponge removal from Morada Nova ewes during the non-breeding season is an effective treatment to induce aCL formation, improve luteal tissue biometry and P4 concentrations, and to enhance the total number of lambs born.

Human chorionic gonadotropin monotherapy for the treatment of hypogonadal symptoms in men with total testosterone > 300 ng/dL

ABSTRACT Purpose The 2018 American Urological Association guidelines on the Evaluation and Management of Testosterone Deficiency recommended that 300 ng/dL be used as the threshold for prescribing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). However, it is not uncommon for men to present with signs and symptoms of testosterone deficiency, despite having testosterone levels greater than 300 ng/dL. There exists scant literature regarding the use of hCG monotherapy for the treatment of hypogonadism in men not interested in fertility. We sought to evaluate serum testosterone response and duration of therapy of hCG monotherapy for men with symptoms of hypogonadism, but total testosterone levels > 300 ng/dL. Materials and Methods We performed a multi-institutional retrospective case series of men receiving hCG monotherapy for symptomatic hypogonadism. We evaluated patient age, treatment indication, hCG dosage, past medical history, physical exam findings and serum testosterone and gonadotropins before and after therapy. Descriptive analysis was performed and Mann Whitney U Test was utilized for statistical analysis. Results Of the 20 men included in the study, treatment indications included low libido (45%), lack of energy (50%), and erectile dysfunction (45%). Mean testosterone improved by 49.9% from a baseline of 362 ng/dL (SD 158) to 519.8 ng/dL (SD 265.6), (p=0.006). Median duration of therapy was 8 months (SD 5 months). Fifty percent of patients reported symptom improvement. Conclusions Treatment of hypogonadal symptoms with hCG for men who have a baseline testosterone level > 300 ng/dL appears to be safe and efficacious with no adverse events.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin monotherapy for the treatment of hypogonadal symptoms in men with total testosterone > 300 ng/dL.

PURPOSE: The 2018 American Urological Association guidelines on the Evaluation and Management of Testosterone Deficiency recommended that 300 ng/dL be used as the threshold for prescribing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). However, it is not uncommon for men to present with signs and symptoms of testosterone deficiency, despite having testosterone levels greater than 300 ng/dL. There exists scant literature regarding the use of hCG monotherapy for the treatment of hypogonadism in men not interested in fertility. We sought to evaluate serum testosterone response and duration of therapy of hCG monotherapy for men with symptoms of hypogonadism, but total testosterone levels > 300 ng/dL. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a multi-institutional retrospective case series of men receiving hCG monotherapy for symptomatic hypogonadism. We evaluated patient age, treatment indication, hCG dosage, past medical history, physical exam findings and serum testosterone and gonadotropins before and after therapy. Descriptive analysis was performed and Mann Whitney U Test was utilized for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Of the 20 men included in the study, treatment indications included low libido (45%), lack of energy (50%), and erectile dysfunction (45%). Mean testosterone improved by 49.9% from a baseline of 362 ng/dL (SD 158) to 519.8 ng/dL (SD 265.6), (p=0.006). Median duration of therapy was 8 months (SD 5 months). Fifty percent of patients reported symptom improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of hypogonadal symptoms with hCG for men who have a baseline testosterone level > 300 ng/dL appears to be safe and effi cacious with no adverse events.

Supplementation of L-carnitine in diets for silver catfish and its effects on reproductive aspects / Suplementação de L-carnitina em dietas para jundiá e seus efeitos sobre os aspectos reprodutivos

The objective of the present study was to assess the reproductive performance of silver catfish Rhamdia quelen fed with diets supplemented with growing levels of L-carnitine. 288 juveniles with average initial weight of 94.36 ± 3.76g, fed during 126 days with diets containing 400, 800, 1200, 1600 and 2000 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine and one control diet. Females fed with diets supplemented with 400 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine presented increase in fertilization and fertility, reduction in levels of triglycerides and plasma calcium when fed with diets supplemented with 1600 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine. Males fed with diets supplemented with 1600 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine presented increase in spermatozoa and improvement in semen quality. Structural changes were observed in the development of germ cells in females and males, even though all fish were in final stages of maturation in all treatments. The offspring from breeding animals fed with 400 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine presented better potentials of development during the embryonic process. Therefore, the L-carnitine supplementation in diets stimulates the gonad development of breeding animals and also speeds up the initial development of silver catfish offspring.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho reprodutivo de jundiá Rhamdia quelen alimentados com dietas suplementadas com níveis crescentes de L-carnitina. Utilizou-se 288 juvenis com 94,36±3,76g de peso inicial médio, alimentados durante 126 dias com dietas contendo 400, 800, 1200, 1600 e 2000 mg. kg-1 de L-carnitina e uma dieta controle. As fêmeas alimentadas com dietas suplementadas com 400 mg. kg-1 de L-carnitina apresentaram aumento na taxa de fertilização e fecundidade. E aquelas que consumiram dietas contendo 1600 mg. kg-1 de L-carnitina demonstraram redução nos níveis de triglicerídeos e cálcio plasmático. Os machos alimentados com dietas suplementadas com 1600 mg. kg-1 L-carnitina apresentaram aumento na produção de espermatozoides e melhora na qualidade seminal. No desenvolvimento das células germinativas em fêmeas e machos apresentaram modificações estruturais, embora todos os peixes encontravam-se em estágios finais da maturação em todos os tratamentos. A prole proveniente de reprodutores alimentados com 400 mg. kg-1 L-carnitina apresentaram melhores potenciais de desenvolvimento no decorrer do processo embrionário. Portanto, a suplementação dietética de L-carnitina estimula o processo de desenvolvimento gonadal dos reprodutores e ainda acelera o desenvolvimento inicial das proles de jundiá.

Supplementation of L-carnitine in diets for silver catfish and its effects on reproductive aspects / Suplementação de L-carnitina em dietas para jundiá e seus efeitos sobre os aspectos reprodutivos

The objective of the present study was to assess the reproductive performance of silver catfish Rhamdia quelen fed with diets supplemented with growing levels of L-carnitine. 288 juveniles with average initial weight of 94.36 ± 3.76g, fed during 126 days with diets containing 400, 800, 1200, 1600 and 2000 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine and one control diet. Females fed with diets supplemented with 400 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine presented increase in fertilization and fertility, reduction in levels of triglycerides and plasma calcium when fed with diets supplemented with 1600 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine. Males fed with diets supplemented with 1600 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine presented increase in spermatozoa and improvement in semen quality. Structural changes were observed in the development of germ cells in females and males, even though all fish were in final stages of maturation in all treatments. The offspring from breeding animals fed with 400 mg. kg-1 of L-carnitine presented better potentials of development during the embryonic process. Therefore, the L-carnitine supplementation in diets stimulates the gonad development of breeding animals and also speeds up the initial development of silver catfish offspring.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho reprodutivo de jundiá Rhamdia quelen alimentados com dietas suplementadas com níveis crescentes de L-carnitina. Utilizou-se 288 juvenis com 94,36±3,76g de peso inicial médio, alimentados durante 126 dias com dietas contendo 400, 800, 1200, 1600 e 2000 mg. kg-1 de L-carnitina e uma dieta controle. As fêmeas alimentadas com dietas suplementadas com 400 mg. kg-1 de L-carnitina apresentaram aumento na taxa de fertilização e fecundidade. E aquelas que consumiram dietas contendo 1600 mg. kg-1 de L-carnitina demonstraram redução nos níveis de triglicerídeos e cálcio plasmático. Os machos alimentados com dietas suplementadas com 1600 mg. kg-1 L-carnitina apresentaram aumento na produção de espermatozoides e melhora na qualidade seminal. No desenvolvimento das células germinativas em fêmeas e machos apresentaram modificações estruturais, embora todos os peixes encontravam-se em estágios finais da maturação em todos os tratamentos. A prole proveniente de reprodutores alimentados com 400 mg. kg-1 L-carnitina apresentaram melhores potenciais de desenvolvimento no decorrer do processo embrionário. Portanto, a suplementação dietética de L-carnitina estimula o processo de desenvolvimento gonadal dos reprodutores e ainda acelera o desenvolvimento inicial das proles de jundiá.(AU)

Astyanax altiparanae ovarian maturation after spawning in water recycling systems / Maturação ovariana de Astyanax altiparanae após desova em sistema de recirculação de água

In this study, we evaluated the possibility of obtaining successive Astyanax altiparanae spawns under laboratory conditions. In order to do so, 104 specimens were randomly distributed into four boxes (10 females and 16 males each) and kept in a recirculation system at an average temperature of 29.24 ± 0.42 °C, under natural photoperiod, for 30 days. On the onset of the experiment, males and females were induced for reproduction with a 6 mg kg-1 carp pituitary extract dose. After that, ovary (for gonadosomatic index and stereological assessment) and blood samples (for steroid evaluation) were collected from eight females (two per box) at the following moments: immediately after hormonal induction (day 0) and on days 1, 6, 16 and 30 after spawning. On day 6, spawned females presented complete mature ovaries similar to those on day 0 and, in this period, we did not observe postovulatory complexes, indicating that their resorption happened very fast. Concomitantly, the steroid levels increased gradually up to day 6, which corroborated an intense vitellogenic activity in this period. This study has demonstrated that A. altiparanae females are suitable for induced spawning within six days after spawning, when kept at 29.24 ± 0.42 °C, in a system maintained with recirculated water.

Neste estudo, avaliamos a possibilidade de obtenção de desovas sucessivas de Astyanax altiparanae mantidos em biotério. Para isso, 104 indivíduos foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro caixas (10 fêmeas e 16 machos em cada) e mantidos a uma temperatura média de 29,24 ± 0,42 °C, sob fotoperíodo natural, por 30 dias. No início do experimento, machos e fêmeas foram induzidos à reprodução com uma dose de extrato de hipófise de carpa (6 mg kg-1). Posteriormente, amostras de ovário (para cálculo do índice gonadosomático e avaliação estereológica) e de sangue (para avaliação de esteroides) foram coletadas de oito fêmeas (duas por caixa) nos seguintes períodos: imediatamente após a indução hormonal (dia 0) e 1, 6, 16 e 30 dias após a desova. No dia 6, as fêmeas desovadas já apresentavam ovários maduros completos similares aos descritos no dia 0. No dia 6 não foram mais observados complexos pós-ovulatórios, indicando que a sua reabsorção foi relativamente rápida. Concomitantemente, os níveis de esteroides aumentaram gradativamente até o dia 6, corroborando uma atividade vitelogênica intensa neste período. Neste estudo demonstramos que fêmeas de A. altiparanae apresentam-se aptas para indução hormonal seis dias após a reprodução, quando mantida a 29,24 ± 0,42 °C, em um sistema mantido com água recirculada.

Astyanax altiparanae ovarian maturation after spawning in water recycling systems / Maturação ovariana de Astyanax altiparanae após desova em sistema de recirculação de água

In this study, we evaluated the possibility of obtaining successive Astyanax altiparanae spawns under laboratory conditions. In order to do so, 104 specimens were randomly distributed into four boxes (10 females and 16 males each) and kept in a recirculation system at an average temperature of 29.24 ± 0.42 °C, under natural photoperiod, for 30 days. On the onset of the experiment, males and females were induced for reproduction with a 6 mg kg-1 carp pituitary extract dose. After that, ovary (for gonadosomatic index and stereological assessment) and blood samples (for steroid evaluation) were collected from eight females (two per box) at the following moments: immediately after hormonal induction (day 0) and on days 1, 6, 16 and 30 after spawning. On day 6, spawned females presented complete mature ovaries similar to those on day 0 and, in this period, we did not observe postovulatory complexes, indicating that their resorption happened very fast. Concomitantly, the steroid levels increased gradually up to day 6, which corroborated an intense vitellogenic activity in this period. This study has demonstrated that A. altiparanae females are suitable for induced spawning within six days after spawning, when kept at 29.24 ± 0.42 °C, in a system maintained with recirculated water.(AU)

Neste estudo, avaliamos a possibilidade de obtenção de desovas sucessivas de Astyanax altiparanae mantidos em biotério. Para isso, 104 indivíduos foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro caixas (10 fêmeas e 16 machos em cada) e mantidos a uma temperatura média de 29,24 ± 0,42 °C, sob fotoperíodo natural, por 30 dias. No início do experimento, machos e fêmeas foram induzidos à reprodução com uma dose de extrato de hipófise de carpa (6 mg kg-1). Posteriormente, amostras de ovário (para cálculo do índice gonadosomático e avaliação estereológica) e de sangue (para avaliação de esteroides) foram coletadas de oito fêmeas (duas por caixa) nos seguintes períodos: imediatamente após a indução hormonal (dia 0) e 1, 6, 16 e 30 dias após a desova. No dia 6, as fêmeas desovadas já apresentavam ovários maduros completos similares aos descritos no dia 0. No dia 6 não foram mais observados complexos pós-ovulatórios, indicando que a sua reabsorção foi relativamente rápida. Concomitantemente, os níveis de esteroides aumentaram gradativamente até o dia 6, corroborando uma atividade vitelogênica intensa neste período. Neste estudo demonstramos que fêmeas de A. altiparanae apresentam-se aptas para indução hormonal seis dias após a reprodução, quando mantida a 29,24 ± 0,42 °C, em um sistema mantido com água recirculada.(AU)

Perfil metabólico, produtivo e reprodutivo de ovelhas recebendo flushing de diferentes fontes energéticas / Metabolic, productive and reproductive profile of ewes receiving flushing supplementation with different energy sources

Suplementos com níveis energéticos semelhantes podem promover diferentes perfis metabólicos e respostas reprodutivas em função dos substratos gerados na fermentação ruminal e na digestão intestinal. Neste estudo, 28 ovelhas da raça Santa Inês com peso vivo e escore de condiçãocorporal (ECC) médios de 39,40 kg e 2,55 respectivamente, receberam dieta basal mais um dos quatro concentrados (flushing): farelo de milho, polpa cítrica, grão de soja ou caroço de algodão (tratamentos). A suplementação foi realizada a partir de três semanas antes até trêssemanas depois do início da estação de monta, na quantidade de 0,5% do peso vivo dos animais, na matéria seca. Foram avaliados parâmetros reprodutivos (taxa de prenhes e prolificidade) e parâmetros metabólicos (energéticos, proteicos e hepáticos), além do peso e escore de condiçãocorporal. O delineamento foi ao acaso com medidas repetidas no tempo. Houve um aumento significativo dos metabólitos sanguíneos energéticos (glicose, triglicérides, colesterol, lipoproteína de muito baixa densidade (VLDL), lipoproteína de baixa densidade (LDL) e lipoproteína de alta densidade (HDL)) e proteicos (proteína total, albumina, globulina, ureia ecreatinina), das enzimas gamaglutamiltransferase (GGT) e aspartatoaminotransferase (AST) e do escore de condição corporal (ECC) das ovelhas após seis semanas de suplementação. Os animais recebendo concentrado contendo caroço de algodão apresentaram maiores níveis plasmáticos de colesterol, LDL, HDL, GGT e albumina e maior ECC. Os maiores níveis plasmáticos de glicose, proteínas totais e AST foram encontrados nos tratamentos farelo de milho e polpa cítrica. Não houve diferença nos índices de fertilidade e prolificidade entre os tratamentos. A suplementação influenciou os níveis séricos dos metabólitos energéticos e proteicos e elevou o ECC a níveis satisfatórios, com potencial para melhorar os índices reprodutivos na estação de monta. A resposta sobre a prenhes foi satisfatória.[...](AU)

Supplements with similar energetic levels may promote different metabolic and reproductive responses as a function of the substrates produced in ruminal fermentation and intestinal digestion. In the present study, 28 Santa Ines ewes with a mean body weight and body condition score (BCS) of 39.40 kg and 2.55, respectively, were fed a basal diet withone of four flushing supplementation sources: corn meal, citrus pulp, soybean or cottonseed. The supplementation started three weeks beforeuntil three weeks after the start of mating season, at 0.5% of the live weight on a dry matter basis. The following reproductive parameters (pregnancy rate and prolificacy) and metabolic parameters (energy, protein and liver), besides weight and body condition score were evaluated. The design was completely randomized with repeated measures in time. There was a significant increase in energetic metabolites (glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein - VLDL, low density lipoprotein - LDL and high density lipoprotein - HDL), protein metabolites (total protein, albumin, globulin, urea and creatinine), gamma glutamyltransferase - GGT and aspartate aminotransferase - AST enzymes andbody condition score (BCS) of ewes after six weeks of supplementation. The animals fed concentrate containing cottonseed had higher plasmatic levels of cholesterol, LDL, HDL, GGT and albumin and higher BCS. The highestglucose, total proteins and AST levels were found in ewes fed corn meal and citrus pulp. There was no difference in fertility and prolificacy parameters between treatments. Supplementation influenced serum levelsof energy and protein metabolites and elevated BCS to satisfactory levels, with potential to improve reproductive parameters at the breeding season. The response to pregnancy was satisfactory.[...](AU)

Perfil metabólico, produtivo e reprodutivo de ovelhas recebendo flushing de diferentes fontes energéticas / Metabolic, productive and reproductive profile of ewes receiving flushing supplementation with different energy sources

Suplementos com níveis energéticos semelhantes podem promover diferentes perfis metabólicos e respostas reprodutivas em função dos substratos gerados na fermentação ruminal e na digestão intestinal. Neste estudo, 28 ovelhas da raça Santa Inês com peso vivo e escore de condiçãocorporal (ECC) médios de 39,40 kg e 2,55 respectivamente, receberam dieta basal mais um dos quatro concentrados (flushing): farelo de milho, polpa cítrica, grão de soja ou caroço de algodão (tratamentos). A suplementação foi realizada a partir de três semanas antes até trêssemanas depois do início da estação de monta, na quantidade de 0,5% do peso vivo dos animais, na matéria seca. Foram avaliados parâmetros reprodutivos (taxa de prenhes e prolificidade) e parâmetros metabólicos (energéticos, proteicos e hepáticos), além do peso e escore de condiçãocorporal. O delineamento foi ao acaso com medidas repetidas no tempo. Houve um aumento significativo dos metabólitos sanguíneos energéticos (glicose, triglicérides, colesterol, lipoproteína de muito baixa densidade (VLDL), lipoproteína de baixa densidade (LDL) e lipoproteína de alta densidade (HDL)) e proteicos (proteína total, albumina, globulina, ureia ecreatinina), das enzimas gamaglutamiltransferase (GGT) e aspartatoaminotransferase (AST) e do escore de condição corporal (ECC) das ovelhas após seis semanas de suplementação. Os animais recebendo concentrado contendo caroço de algodão apresentaram maiores níveis plasmáticos de colesterol, LDL, HDL, GGT e albumina e maior ECC. Os maiores níveis plasmáticos de glicose, proteínas totais e AST foram encontrados nos tratamentos farelo de milho e polpa cítrica. Não houve diferença nos índices de fertilidade e prolificidade entre os tratamentos. A suplementação influenciou os níveis séricos dos metabólitos energéticos e proteicos e elevou o ECC a níveis satisfatórios, com potencial para melhorar os índices reprodutivos na estação de monta. A resposta sobre a prenhes foi satisfatória.[...]

Supplements with similar energetic levels may promote different metabolic and reproductive responses as a function of the substrates produced in ruminal fermentation and intestinal digestion. In the present study, 28 Santa Ines ewes with a mean body weight and body condition score (BCS) of 39.40 kg and 2.55, respectively, were fed a basal diet withone of four flushing supplementation sources: corn meal, citrus pulp, soybean or cottonseed. The supplementation started three weeks beforeuntil three weeks after the start of mating season, at 0.5% of the live weight on a dry matter basis. The following reproductive parameters (pregnancy rate and prolificacy) and metabolic parameters (energy, protein and liver), besides weight and body condition score were evaluated. The design was completely randomized with repeated measures in time. There was a significant increase in energetic metabolites (glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein - VLDL, low density lipoprotein - LDL and high density lipoprotein - HDL), protein metabolites (total protein, albumin, globulin, urea and creatinine), gamma glutamyltransferase - GGT and aspartate aminotransferase - AST enzymes andbody condition score (BCS) of ewes after six weeks of supplementation. The animals fed concentrate containing cottonseed had higher plasmatic levels of cholesterol, LDL, HDL, GGT and albumin and higher BCS. The highestglucose, total proteins and AST levels were found in ewes fed corn meal and citrus pulp. There was no difference in fertility and prolificacy parameters between treatments. Supplementation influenced serum levelsof energy and protein metabolites and elevated BCS to satisfactory levels, with potential to improve reproductive parameters at the breeding season. The response to pregnancy was satisfactory.[...]

A influência da nutrição e a atuação da leptina e kisspeptina no ciclo reprodutivo da égua / The influence of nutrition and the action of leptin and kisspeptin on the mare's reproductive cycle

A domesticação do equino pelo homem acarretou alterações de manejo e alimentação devido à necessidade de adaptação dos animais a novos exercícios e condições limitantes impostas a estes pelo homem. Um dos avanços alcançados através da mudança alimentar imposta aos equinos mediante o fornecimento de alimentos concentrados é a possibilidade de melhor eficiência reprodutiva. As éguas são poliéstricas estacionais fotoperíodo positivas, naturalmente entrando em anestro nos meses de inverno, em regiões afastadas da linha do Equador. Estudos indicam que éguas com bom índice de escore corporal podem não entrar em anestro nesse período, oferecendo a possibilidade de reprodução ao longo de todo o ano sem a necessidade de aplicação de hormônios exógenos. A correlação entre nutrição e reprodução equina vem sendo cada vez mais estudada, e os mecanismos de ação de diversos fatores atuantes nessa correlação como a leptina e a kisspeptina vem sendo elucidados. A presente revisão traz informações acerca da interação entre nutrição e reprodução equina e dois dos mais importantes peptídeos atuantes nessa correlação: leptina e kisspeptina.

Equine domestication by men brought alongside with it several alterations in equine management and feeding, due to the need of adaptation by the horses to new exercises and limiting conditions imposed to them by humans. One of the many advances achieved through feeding modification imposed to horses by providing concentrate feed is the possibility for better reproductive efficiency. Mares are photoperiodic poliestric seasonal breeders, naturally entering anestrus in winter months in regions far from the Equator line. Studies indicate that mares with optimum body score may not enter anestrus in such period, offering the possibility of reproduction through the year withholding the need for exogenous hormone administration. The correlation between nutrition and equine reproduction is being increasingly studied, and a confluence of factors that act in such correlation such as leptin and kisspeptin and are being elucidated. This revision brings information regarding the interaction between nutrition and equine reproduction and two of the major peptides that act in such correlation: leptin and kisspeptin.

A influência da nutrição e a atuação da leptina e kisspeptina no ciclo reprodutivo da égua / The influence of nutrition and the action of leptin and kisspeptin on the mare's reproductive cycle

A domesticação do equino pelo homem acarretou alterações de manejo e alimentação devido à necessidade de adaptação dos animais a novos exercícios e condições limitantes impostas a estes pelo homem. Um dos avanços alcançados através da mudança alimentar imposta aos equinos mediante o fornecimento de alimentos concentrados é a possibilidade de melhor eficiência reprodutiva. As éguas são poliéstricas estacionais fotoperíodo positivas, naturalmente entrando em anestro nos meses de inverno, em regiões afastadas da linha do Equador. Estudos indicam que éguas com bom índice de escore corporal podem não entrar em anestro nesse período, oferecendo a possibilidade de reprodução ao longo de todo o ano sem a necessidade de aplicação de hormônios exógenos. A correlação entre nutrição e reprodução equina vem sendo cada vez mais estudada, e os mecanismos de ação de diversos fatores atuantes nessa correlação como a leptina e a kisspeptina vem sendo elucidados. A presente revisão traz informações acerca da interação entre nutrição e reprodução equina e dois dos mais importantes peptídeos atuantes nessa correlação: leptina e kisspeptina.(AU)

Equine domestication by men brought alongside with it several alterations in equine management and feeding, due to the need of adaptation by the horses to new exercises and limiting conditions imposed to them by humans. One of the many advances achieved through feeding modification imposed to horses by providing concentrate feed is the possibility for better reproductive efficiency. Mares are photoperiodic poliestric seasonal breeders, naturally entering anestrus in winter months in regions far from the Equator line. Studies indicate that mares with optimum body score may not enter anestrus in such period, offering the possibility of reproduction through the year withholding the need for exogenous hormone administration. The correlation between nutrition and equine reproduction is being increasingly studied, and a confluence of factors that act in such correlation such as leptin and kisspeptin and are being elucidated. This revision brings information regarding the interaction between nutrition and equine reproduction and two of the major peptides that act in such correlation: leptin and kisspeptin.(AU)

Carotenóides, tocoferois e ácido ascórbico como suplementos vitamínico na reprodução de Taeniopygia guttata

Com o grande crescimento do mercado de aves ornamentais, associado à indispensabilidade de desenvolvimento de estratégias e tecnologias que permitem potencializar os sistemas produtivos, este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar o efeito da suplementação alimentar com vitaminas A, E e C sobre a capacidade reprodutiva de mandarim, Taeniopygia guttata, em sistema intensivo de produção. Para tal, foram utilizadas 80 aves da espécie T. guttata, com 3 meses de idade, distribuídas em 16 gaiolas, com 5 aves cada, sendo 2 machos e 3 fêmeas, constituindo 4 repetições dos 4 diferentes tratamentos: T1 = suplementado com 1000 mg de vitamina A/kg de ração; T2= 1000mg de vitamina E/Kg de ração; T3= 750mg de vitamina C/Kg de ração; T4= Grupo controle não suplementado. As aves foram alimentadas em dias alternados com 80gr de dieta à base de amido de milho contendo a suplementação vitamínica, durante todo o período do final do inverno e início da primavera. Para a determinação da resposta reprodutiva das aves, foram avaliados a fertilidade das fêmeas quanto a postura, fecundidade e germinação. A suplementação alimentar de dietas para mandarins com 1000 mg de vitamina A e 1000mg de vitamina E resultaram aumento na produção de ovos, sendo este efeito mais significativo nos carotenoides, justificando o uso desta prática de manejo em criatórios de aves comerciais. Por outro lado, a suplementação alimentar com vitamina C não apresentou efeito promotor. Contudo, 100% dos ovos produzidos durante o experimento eclodiram aves sadias, não sendo observado perdas por más formações ou ovos não fecundados.

Dose inseminante e embriogênese na fertilização assistida de carpa comum no nordeste brasileiro / Inseminating dose and embryogenesis in assisted fertilization of common carp in northeastern of Brazil

A presente pesquisa visou determinar a dose inseminante para a fertilização assistida da carpa comum, e o registro em imagens e o tempo de desenvolvimento de cada fase embrionária desta espécie em latitude equatorial. Verificou-se que a porcentagem de fertilização aumentou de forma linear, atingindo um platô em 45,5% na proporção de 208.295 espermatozoides/oócito. Assim, recomenda-se o uso da dose inseminante de aproximadamente 200.000 espermatozoides/oócito na rotina de fertilização assistida dessa espécie, no nordeste brasileiro. Além disso, o desenvolvimento embrionário da carpa em latitude equatorial segue a cronologia semelhante ao relatado para a espécie em clima temperado.

The present research aimed at determining insemination dose for artificial fertilization of common carp, and record images and time in the development of each embryonic stage of the species in equatorial latitude. The fertilization rate increased linearly up to the proportion of 208.295 spermatozoa/oocyte, and, from this point, the fertilization rate was maintained at 45.5%. Therefore, we recommend the use of the insemination dose of approximately 200.000 sperm/oocyte in the artificial fertilization routine of common carpin brazilian northeast. Moreover, embryonic development of carp in equatorial latitude follows the chronology similar to that reported for the species in temperate zones.

Dose inseminante e embriogênese na fertilização assistida de carpa comum no nordeste brasileiro / Inseminating dose and embryogenesis in assisted fertilization of common carp in northeastern of Brazil

A presente pesquisa visou determinar a dose inseminante para a fertilização assistida da carpa comum, e o registro em imagens e o tempo de desenvolvimento de cada fase embrionária desta espécie em latitude equatorial. Verificou-se que a porcentagem de fertilização aumentou de forma linear, atingindo um platô em 45,5% na proporção de 208.295 espermatozoides/oócito. Assim, recomenda-se o uso da dose inseminante de aproximadamente 200.000 espermatozoides/oócito na rotina de fertilização assistida dessa espécie, no nordeste brasileiro. Além disso, o desenvolvimento embrionário da carpa em latitude equatorial segue a cronologia semelhante ao relatado para a espécie em clima temperado.(AU)

The present research aimed at determining insemination dose for artificial fertilization of common carp, and record images and time in the development of each embryonic stage of the species in equatorial latitude. The fertilization rate increased linearly up to the proportion of 208.295 spermatozoa/oocyte, and, from this point, the fertilization rate was maintained at 45.5%. Therefore, we recommend the use of the insemination dose of approximately 200.000 sperm/oocyte in the artificial fertilization routine of common carpin brazilian northeast. Moreover, embryonic development of carp in equatorial latitude follows the chronology similar to that reported for the species in temperate zones.(AU)

Carotenóides, tocoferois e ácido ascórbico como suplementos vitamínico na reprodução de Taeniopygia guttata

Com o grande crescimento do mercado de aves ornamentais, associado à indispensabilidade de desenvolvimento de estratégias e tecnologias que permitem potencializar os sistemas produtivos, este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar o efeito da suplementação alimentar com vitaminas A, E e C sobre a capacidade reprodutiva de mandarim, Taeniopygia guttata, em sistema intensivo de produção. Para tal, foram utilizadas 80 aves da espécie T. guttata, com 3 meses de idade, distribuídas em 16 gaiolas, com 5 aves cada, sendo 2 machos e 3 fêmeas, constituindo 4 repetições dos 4 diferentes tratamentos: T1 = suplementado com 1000 mg de vitamina A/kg de ração; T2= 1000mg de vitamina E/Kg de ração; T3= 750mg de vitamina C/Kg de ração; T4= Grupo controle não suplementado. As aves foram alimentadas em dias alternados com 80gr de dieta à base de amido de milho contendo a suplementação vitamínica, durante todo o período do final do inverno e início da primavera. Para a determinação da resposta reprodutiva das aves, foram avaliados a fertilidade das fêmeas quanto a postura, fecundidade e germinação. A suplementação alimentar de dietas para mandarins com 1000 mg de vitamina A e 1000mg de vitamina E resultaram aumento na produção de ovos, sendo este efeito mais significativo nos carotenoides, justificando o uso desta prática de manejo em criatórios de aves comerciais. Por outro lado, a suplementação alimentar com vitamina C não apresentou efeito promotor. Contudo, 100% dos ovos produzidos durante o experimento eclodiram aves sadias, não sendo observado perdas por más formações ou ovos não fecundados.(AU)

Hormonal responses and clinical outcome are the same with three doses of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist used in the short stimulation protocol.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare 3 different doses of GnRH-a in a short protocol on ICSI outcome. METHODS: 91 ovulatory patients were randomly assigned to three groups; group A (N=34), group B (N=34) and group C (N=23). All started treatment with urinary gonadotropins, 2 ampoules per day and GnRH-a (Triptorelin) on the first day of the menstrual period and continued till the day of (hCG) administration. The daily dose of Triptorelin was 0.1 mg, 50 µg, and 25 µg in groups A, B and C respectively. RESULTS: Stimulation requirements, days of stimulation and total ampoules of gonadotropins did not differ between the three groups. The mean number of follicles aspirated and the mean number of Metaphase 2 oocytes retrieved were similar in the three groups. Fertilization and cleavage rates were similar in the three groups. The mean number of embryos available for transfer was 6.4±0.5, 9.4±0.5 and 7±0.7 in groups A, B and C, with a significant difference only between groups A and B. Pregnancy rates per cycle were 35.3%, 35.3% and 34.8 % for groups A, B and C, respectively with no significant difference. CONCLUSION: Early and late hormonal changes, stimulation requirements and final outcome were similar with the different doses of the agonist. Other factors should be considered, most importantly: treatment cost and side effects.

Overexpression of hyaluronan synthase 2 and gonadotropin receptors in cumulus cells of goats subjected to one-shot eCG/FSH hormonal treatment for ovarian stimulation.

Hormonal ovarian stimulation may affect transcripts in somatic cells of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and affect the resulting oocyte quality. Here, in parallel with morphological classification and in vitro maturation (IVM) rate analysis, we investigated the expression of hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2), gonadotropic receptors (FSHR and LHR) and connexin 43 (GJA1) in cumulus cells (CCs) from goat COCs after multi-dose FSH (MD) or one-shot FSH/eCG (OS) treatments, using bovine COCs as control groups. The MD treatment produced more large follicles, and the resulting COCs had a better morphology and IVM rate than were obtained with OS. The OS treatment produced COCs with increased HAS2, FSHR, LHR and GJA1 expression. This gene expression pattern was also observed in the CCs of COCs that showed poor morphological characteristics. On the other hand, the mRNA levels were more similar between groups after IVM; FSHR and LHR were the main genes that showed decreased expression. Some events that occurred in bovine CCs during IVM, such as cell expansion, increased HAS2 expression and decreased GJA1 expression, were less evident or did not occur in goat COCs. In conclusion, increasing HAS2, FSHR, LHR and GJA1 expression in goat COCs does not confer greater meiotic competence to oocytes. Instead, it may result from poor regulation of gene expression in CCs by lower quality oocytes. Finally, cumulus expansion, together with HAS2 upregulation and GJA1 downregulation, seems to be more important for bovine COCs than for goat COCs. Additional studies are needed to investigate the importance of other HAS isoforms and connexins in goat COCs.

Extending the duration of treatment with progesterone and equine chorionic gonadotropin improves fertility in suckled beef cows with low body condition score subjected to timed artificial insemination.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of an extended progesterone treatment on follicular development and fertility in postpartum, suckled beef cows subjected to timed artificial insemination (TAI). In experiment 1, cows (n = 24) with body condition score (BCS) ≥4.5 received either a 2-g progesterone intravaginal device on Day -23 or a 0.558-g progesterone intravaginal device on Day -9. Then, all cows received 2 mg of estradiol benzoate on Day -9; removal of the device, 1-mg estradiol cypionate, and PGF2α on Day -2; and TAI on Day 0. Metabolic status was assessed between Days -9 and -2. Ovarian structures and plasma progesterone were determined weekly from Day -23 to -9, daily from Day -9 to 0, and weekly until Day 28. In experiment 2, cows (n = 302) with BCS ≥4.5 received identical treatment to cows in experiment 1, but on Day -2, cows received 400 IU of two different commercial preparations of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG). Ovarian structures were determined on Days -23 and -9 on a subset of cows (n = 40). Pregnancy was determined 39 days after TAI. In experiment 3, multiparous cows (n = 244) with BCS <5.0 received identical treatment as cows in experiment 1 initiated on Day -18, and on Day -2, cows received 400 IU of eCG or no treatment. Ovarian structures were determined in a subset of cows (n = 31) on Days -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, and on Day 10. Pregnancy was determined 39 days after TAI. The results indicated that in experiment 1, plasma progesterone was higher in treated than nontreated (control cows) during the first 14 days (P = 0.0001). The extended progesterone treatment increased the size of the largest follicle between Days -23 and Day -5 (Group by Day, P = 0.04) and tended to increase the size of the dominant follicle from Day -5 to Day -1 (Group by Day, P = 0.06). There was no effect of metabolic status or interaction between metabolic status and day on follicular growth. In experiment 2, extended progesterone treatment tended to increase the size of the largest follicle between Day -23 and -9 (P = 0.06). There was no effect of Group, eCG, BCS, and parity on pregnancy per AI. In experiment 3, extended progesterone treatment combined with eCG increased the size of the dominant follicle (P = 0.01). Both extended progesterone treatment (P = 0.02) and eCG (P = 0.03) increased pregnancy per AI. In conclusion, an extended progesterone treatment stimulated follicular growth postpartum and improved fertility only in cows with low BCS.