Individual return to Leydig cell function after GnRH-immunization of boars

Abstract

Immunization of boars against GnRH inhibits synthesis of testicular anabolic steroids and the sex odour androstenone. Time between second vaccination and return of Leydig cell function is unknown. Six catheterized boars received the second dose (Improvac ®) at 26 weeks of age (day 0). Titre, LH, testicular steroids, and IGF-I were determined in blood until testosterone exceeded 0.5 ng/mL again in all boars. At week 10 the titre was low again. Return of testicular function was preceded by increased pulsatile secretion of LH but onset of steroid synthesis was delayed and highly variable (10–24 weeks) and was not related to the initial antibody titre. A major reason for delayed onset of Leydig cell function apparently is a variable refractoriness against LH.