Abstract
Estrous synchronization is a valuable tool to enhance reproductive management in beef cattle. Procedures that facilitate synchronization of estrus in cycling cattle and induce ovulatory estrus in peripubertal heifers and postpartum anestrous cows will increase reproductive rates and expedite genetic progress through use of AI. A better understanding of physiology and endocrinology of the estrous cycle will improve reproductive management of beef cattle and facilitate the successful application of estrous synchronization protocols, which, in turn, will increase the use of AI and hasten genetic improvement in beef cattle production systems. Effective reproductive management requires the successful application of available knowledge to current estrous synchronization protocols. To that end, this review covers the basic physiology and endocrinology of the estrous cycle and provides an overview of our current understanding of follicular waves. Topics to be covered include endocrinology associated with the estrous cycle, follicular development, and the corpus luteum. A review of the utilization of estrous synchronization and AI in the U. S. beef industry is also briefly discussed.
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