Abstract
Progesterone secretion during early pregnancy in equids is supplemented by the development of accessory corpora lutea between 40 and 150 days after ovulation. This coincides with the development and regression of the endometrial cups and their secretion of large quantities of chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG) into the maternal bloodstream. The dual gonadotrophic properties of eCG and its temporal relationship to secondary luteal activity would seem to suggest that the former stimulates the latter. However, from the results of interspecies matings between horse and donkey and the successful transfer of donkey embryos to horses and vice versa, the argument is raised that secondary luteal development in pregnancy is controlled more by maternal pituitary than chorionic gonadotrophin release. Furthermore, from an endocrinological standpoint, eCG is not essential to the maintenance of pregnancy.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
