Influence of a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor administered at embryo transfer on pregnancy rates of recipient cows

Abstract

Elevated uterine luminal concentrations of prostaglandin F 2α (PGF 2α) have been negatively associated with embryo quality and pregnancy rates. Two studies were performed in cows to determine PGF 2α release from uterine endometrium following embryo transfer and to investigate administration of flunixin meglumine (FM), a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor, on pregnancy rates following embryo transfer. In Experiment 1, blood samples were collected prior to and after embryo transfer from the posterior vena cava via saphenous vein cannulation. Serum profiles of PGF 2α indicated that manipulation of the reproductive tract during embryo transfer was followed by increased release of PGF 2α from the uterine endometrium. In Experiment 2, estrus (day = 0) was synchronized in recipient animals and a single embryo transferred 7 days after estrus. At the time of non-surgical embryo transfer, animals were randomly assigned to receive either FM (FM; n = 1300) or remain untreated (control (CON); n = 797). Data collected at transfer included stage of embryo development, embryo quality, technician, and transfer quality score. Overall pregnancy rates of cows receiving FM (65%) were higher than control cows (60%; P < 0.02). Pregnancy rates following transfer of quality 1 (good) embryos did not differ ( P > 0.05) between treatments. However, pregnancy rates of quality 2 (fair) embryos were higher in animals receiving FM than in CON ( P < 0.01). Moreover, pregnancy rates of transferred morula- and blastocyst-stage embryos were higher in FM-treated than in controls ( P < 0.06 and P < 0.04, respectively). In conclusion, uterine release of PGF 2α is elevated following embryo transfer and administration of a PGF 2α synthesis inhibitor at the time of embryo transfer improved pregnancy rates in cows.