Biochemical profile differences during the transition period based on different levels of non-esterified fatty acids at 7 weeks before parturition in Mediterranean Italian dairy buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis).

Metabolic adaptations to negative energy balance, as well as lipomobilization, influence inflammatory responses, immune function, and oxidative stress in animals. This study aimed to evaluate the biochemical profile of Mediterranean buffaloes with different levels of lipomobilization from the prepartum to the postpartum period. A total of 76 Mediterranean buffaloes were enrolled, and a weekly blood sample was taken from 7 weeks before to 6 weeks after calving. The concentration of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) was determined in serum and was used to categorize buffaloes into three lipomobilization groups 7 weeks before calving: mild (NEFA-I; NEFA ≤ 0.29 mEq/L; n = 18), medium (NEFA-II; 0.29 < NEFA < 0.57 mEq/L; n = 20), and severe (NEFA-III; NEFA ≥ 0.57 mEq/L; n = 38). Two-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess changes within and between the groups and over time. Significant differences were found in the concentration levels of NEFA, ß-hydroxybutyrate, glucose, cholesterol, protein profile, oxygen radicals, antioxidants, lysozyme, complement, and minerals. These results suggest that both medium and severe lipomobilization groups are associated with metabolic alterations. In conclusion, buffaloes with higher NEFA levels (>0.29 mEq/L; NEFA-II and NEFA-III) at 7 weeks before calving should be monitored more closely to reduce the risk of metabolic diseases. Furthermore, the medium (NEFA-II) and severe (NEFA-III) lipomobilization groups could be associated with differences in the animals' ability to manage their metabolic status. Specifically, the severe mobilization group was most associated with a greater energy deficit during both the prepartum and postpartum periods without oxidative stress. On the contrary, the medium mobilization group was associated with a less severe energy deficit but was also associated with an inflammatory status and oxidative stress during the prepartum period. These distinctions highlight the need for tailored management strategies to address varying levels of metabolic stress in dairy buffaloes.

Use of new recombinant proteins for ovarian stimulation in ruminants.

Currently, gonadotropin products (follicle stimulating hormone, FSH, and luteinizing hormone, LH) used in animal reproduction are produced by extraction and purification from abattoir-derived pituitary glands. This method, relying on animal-derived materials, carries the potential risk of hormone contamination and pathogen transmission. Additionally, chorionic gonadotropins are extracted from the blood of pregnant mares (equine chorionic gonadotropin; eCG) or the urine of pregnant women (human chorionic gonadotropin; hCG). However, recent advancements have introduced recombinant gonadotropins for assisted animal reproduction therapies. The traditional use of FSH for superovulation has limitations, including labor requirements and variability in superovulation response, affecting the success of in vivo (SOV) and in vitro (OPU/IVEP) embryo production. FSH treatment for superstimulation before OPU can promote the growth of a homogenous follicular population and the recovery of competent oocytes suitable for IVEP procedures. At present, a single injection of a preparation of long-acting bovine recombinant FSH (rFSH) produced similar superovulation responses resulting in the production of good-quality in vivo and in vitro embryos. Furthermore, the treatment with eCG at FTAI protocol has demonstrated its efficacy in promoting follicular growth, ovulation, and P/AI, mainly in heifers and anestrous cows. Currently, treatment with recombinant glycoproteins with eCG-like activity (r-eCG) have shown promising results in increasing follicular growth, ovulation, and P/AI in cows submitted to P4/E2 -based protocols. Bovine somatotropin (bST) is a naturally occurring hormone found in cows. Recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST), produced through genetic engineering techniques, has shown potential in enhancing reproductive outcomes in ruminants. Treatment with rbST has been found to improve P/IA, increase donor embryo production, and enhance P/ET in recipients. The use of recombinant hormones allows to produce non-animal-derived products, offering several advantages in assisted reproductive technologies for ruminants. This advancement opens up new possibilities for improving reproductive efficiency and success rates in the field of animal reproduction.