IU Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin Research Articles

Influence of repeated estrus synchronization treatment on hormone secretion, growth, and development of dairy goats.

In large-scale intensive farms, dairy goats often undergo frequent estrus synchronization (ES) treatment, which may result in a decline in reproductive performance; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and progesterone (P4)-mediated ES treatment on fertility in dairy goats, while also identifying key metabolic and endocrine mechanisms that influence reproductive performance in does subjected to repeated ES treatment. Forty-eight Saanen does were randomly assigned to two groups (24 goats each) that received ES treatments either thrice fortnightly (3-PMSG) or once (1-PMSG) simultaneously with the third ES treatment of the 3-PMSG group during the breeding season. ES treatment was performed via the intravaginal insertion of a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device impregnated with 300 mg P4, followed by 300 IU PMSG injections 48 h before CIDR withdrawal. Blood was collected to detect the level of hormones and blood biochemical indices. Additionally, estrus rate, fecundity rate, body weight, size, and lactation performance were measured. The results showed that repeated ES treatment markedly decreased the estrus rate and fecundity rate of goats. Among the does in all groups, there was no substantial difference in follicle stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, melatonin, growth hormone, PMSG, total cholesterol, total protein, and glucose levels, as well as the body weight, body size, and lactation performance. Repeated ES treatment elevated estrogen (E2) levels 36, 48, and 72 h post-CIDR removal; increased P4 upon CIDR insertion; and raised PMSG antibody levels 24, 48, and 72 h post-CIDR removal. The results suggest that elevated anti-PMSG levels are the primary reason for the decline in ES efficiency, and that high E2 and P4 levels at some time points also impair reproductive performance. These findings provide novel insights into the metabolic effects of repeated PMSG stimulation in goats, guiding future reproductive hormone use in breeding practices.

The Effect of The Conditioned Medium from Human Embryonic Stem Cells on Mouse Oocytes In Vitro Maturation.

Some reports have indicated that conditioned medium from growing mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) provides a supportive condition for small follicles growing, oocyte maturation, and following embryo growth. The aim of this study is assessing in vitro maturation (IVM) and consequent in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome of immature mouse oocytes using human embryonic stem cells conditioned medium (HESCM). In this experimental study, 240 germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes were took from NMRI female mice, aged 4-6 weeks, 48 hours before injection of 5 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG). 120 GV oocytes without cumulus cells were cultured in each of the groups. 120 GV were cultured in HESCM as test groups and also 120 GV cultured in human embryonic stem cells medium (HESM) as control groups. After evaluating the metaphase II (MII) oocyte maturation rate at 8, 16 and 24 hours, the MII oocytes subsequently were fertilized in vitro and the two-cell embryo development rate was recorded at days 1, 2, and 3. Statistical analysis was performed by using the generalized estimating equations (GEE) method that calculated their rate ratio. Our data indicated there are significant differences between the maturation rates in HESCM and HESM (P=0.004), also the two-cell embryo development was significant between two culture media (P=0.00). Similar to some other studies, the secretome of the HESCM showed a significant impact on the IVM outcomes in mice.

Effect of progesterone infused controlled internal drug releasing (CIDR) device and timing of gonadotropin stimulation using P.G. 600 on reproductive success in ewes bred out of season.

Objectives of this study were to determine effects of exogenous progesterone (via controlled internal drug releasing devices; CIDR) in combination with exogenous gonadotropins (PMSG/hCG) use either at CIDR removal or 1 d before CIDR removal to induce estrus and cyclicity and subsequently enhance the proportion of ewes lambing, lambing rate, prolificacy, and days to lambing in ewes bred out of season. Multiparous ewes (n = 414) were randomly assigned to one of four treatments: untreated (U, n = 122), 7 d CIDR (C, n = 97), 7 d CIDR plus P.G. 600 (240 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin [PMSG] and 120 IU human chorionic gonadotropin [hCG]) at CIDR removal (CPG0, n = 97), and 7 d CIDR plus P.G. 600 (240 IU PMSG and 120 IU hCG) 1 d before CIDR removal (CPG-1, n = 98). Rams (n = 15) were joined with ewes immediately after CIDR removal and remained with ewes for a 21 d breeding period. Lambing data were summarized for the first 10 days of the lambing season and overall. Categorical data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS whereas non-categorical data were analyzed using the mixed procedure. Proportion of ewes lambing in the first 10 d was greater (P < 0.05) for CPG0 and CPG-1 ewes compared with C ewes, which was greater (P < 0.0001) compared with U ewes. Overall proportion of ewes lambing was greater (P ≤ 0.0001) in all treatments utilizing CIDR compared with U ewes, but no differences (P ≥ 0.84) due to P.G. 600 were detected compared with C. Lambing rate in the first 10 d was greater (P < 0.05) for CPG-1 than C, with CPGO being intermediate, and all CIDR-treated ewes being greater than U (P < 0.0001). Overall lambing rate increased (P ≤ 0.0001) in all treatments utilizing CIDR compared with U ewes, but no differences (P ≥ 0.76) due to P.G. 600 were detected compared with C. Prolificacy was similar among all treatments both for the first 10 d of the lambing season (P = 0.86) and overall (P = 0.80). Day of lambing in the lambing season was reduced (P ≤ 0.03) for CPG0 and CPG-1 compared with CIDR-treated ewes, which was reduced (P < 0.0001) compared with U ewes (days 10.6, 9.0, 13.4, and 24.4 ± 0.9 for CPG0, CPG-1, CON, and U, respectively). Though timing of P.G. 600 did not influence results, the combination of CIDR and P.G. 600 enhanced the proportion of lambs born earlier in the lambing season, and incorporating a CIDR with or without P.G. 600 enhanced the overall proportion of ewes lambing and lambing rate in out-of-season breeding scenarios.

Effect of Additional Progesterone Treatment During Intravaginal Progesterone Priming in AnestrousEwes

Oestrus induction with intravaginal progesterone is the most preferred method in anoestrus sheep. In previous studies it was argued that the decrease in the progesterone level before the sponge is removed reduces the efficiency. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that additional progesterone treatment during the progesterone priming in anestrous ewes could increase the reproductive efficiency of the induction. The study conducted on 261 Kangal sheep, which were pregnant in autumn and gave birth in spring and breastfed their lambs for about 60-75 days. All animals included in the study were randomly divided into 3 different groups as P-7 (n = 86), P-8 (n = 80) and control (n = 95). At the beginning of the study a progesterone impregnated sponge was placed to all ewes (Day 0). During sponge treatment, an injection of progesterone was given to P-7 and P-8 group 7 and 8 days after the was sponge placed, respectively. As for control group, no additional progesterone was given during sponge treatment. All groups received 500 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin at the sponge withdrawal. Ram was introduced to all ewes the 10th days of the study. There was no difference between the groups in terms of estrus rate (P = 0.28), pregnancy rate (P = 0.32) and multiple pregnancy rates (P = 0.38) (P = 0.28). We considered that the main reason for unexpected low progesterone concentration at the end of the treatment might be the result of high feed intake and metabolic rate. On the other hand, this additional dose could be caused by an excessive increase in progesterone levels in the sheep, which could be the reason for the decrease in reproductive parameters. Additional progesterone support during progesteronebased synchronization yielded acceptable results. However, progesterone can be administered in injection form in the earlier days of synchronization or before sponge insertion to obtain better results.

Quercetin alleviates cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian insufficiency in mice by reducing mitochondrial oxidative stress and pyroptosis in granulosa cells

BackgroundExposure to cyclophosphamide (CTX) induces premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Quercetin is a natural flavonoid that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and its antioxidant activity is correlated with POI. However, the mechanism underlying its protective role in CTX-induced ovarian dysfunction is unclear. This study aimed to explore whether quercetin can protect ovarian reserves by activating mitochondrial biogenesis and inhibiting pyroptosis.MethodsThirty-six female C57BL/6 mice were randomly subdivided into six groups. Except for the control group, all groups were injected with 90 mg/kg CTX to establish a POI model and further treated with coenzyme 10 or various doses of quercetin. The mice were sacrificed 48 h after 10 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin was injected four weeks after treatments. We used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to detect serum hormone expression and light and transmission electron microscopy to assess ovarian tissue morphology and mitochondria. Additionally, we tested oxidant and antioxidant levels in ovarian tissues and mitochondrial function in granulosa cells (GCs). The expression of mitochondrial biogenesis and pyroptosis-related proteins and mRNA was analyzed using western blotting and RT-qPCR.ResultsQuercetin elevated serum anti-Müllerian hormone, estradiol, and progesterone levels, decreased serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels, and alleviated ovarian pathology. It reduced the mitochondrial DNA content and mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, it upregulated ATP levels and the mRNA and protein expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1α), mitochondrial transcription factor A, and superoxide dismutase 2. In addition, it suppressed NOD-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3, caspase-1, interleukin-1β, and gasdermin D levels in the GCs of POI mice.ConclusionsQuercetin protected the ovarian reserve from CTX-induced ovarian damage by reversing mitochondrial dysfunction and activating mitochondrial biogenesis via the PGC1-α pathway. Moreover, quercetin may improve ovarian functions by downregulating pyroptosis in the CTX-induced POI model. Thus, quercetin can be considered a potential agent for treating POI.

Reproductive Performance of Garut Ewes Fed Sorghum-Indigofera after Stimulation with Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of mixed feed sorghum-Indigofera on Garut ewes reproductive performance stimulated with Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin (PMSG) hormone. Twenty-eight multiparous Garut ewes were grouped based on feed type (local forage (LF) vs. mixed feed sorghum-Indigofera (SI)), for a 30-day acclimatization period with a completely randomized design. Following acclimatization, all animals were synchronized with PGF2α (i.m.) twice, 11 days apart. Half the population of each group was stimulated with 500 IU PMSG after the second injection. Estrous characteristics were observed for seven days, followed by natural mating. Pregnancy status and the number of fetuses were detected 30 days after mating using ultrasound (USG), and reproductive efficiency was evaluated after parturition. Data during acclimatization were analyzed using a two-sample t-test, while the reproductive performances used a General Linear Model (GLM). Estrous characteristics showed no interaction (p>0.05) between feed types and PMSG stimulation. The onset of estrous in the SI treatment occurred 9.33 hours faster (p<0.05) than in the LF treatment. Meanwhile, the duration of estrous in the group stimulated with PMSG was 18.67 hours longer (p<0.05) than without PMSG. The vulva temperature at standing heat was 38.16±0.69 °C (p>0.05), with the pregnancy rate ranging 42.85%-100%. Interestingly, the SI group treated with or without PMSG had a larger litter size (1.43-4.50) compared to the LF group (1.25–1.33). It is concluded that feeding with SI had improved reproductive success, with the highest number of ewes giving birth. Additionally, the ewes fed SI with PMSG had the largest litter size.

Comparison of fertility parameters in Romanov sheep synchronized with progesterone-based protocol plus PMSG or GnRH

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the fertility parameters in response to pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (conventional treatment) or gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (alternative treatment) in Romanov sheep subjected to a 7-d short-term protocol out of breeding season. Materials and Methods: Sheep (n=57) received an intravaginal sponge impregnated with 20 mg fluorogestone acetate for 7 days and 125 µg cloprostenol at sponge removal. Sheep were randomly assigned to receive no treatment (CON, n=16), 240 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG, n=24) at sponge removal or 10 µg busereline acetate (GnRH, n=17) at 30 h after sponge removal. Results: Estrous response and pregnancy rate were 86% and 75.4% in all sheep, respectively. Estrous response was numerically higher about 7% (p&amp;gt;0.05) in treatment groups (PMSG, 87.5%; GnRH, 88.2%) than CON (81.2%). However, pregnancy rate was numerically higher in PMSG (83.3%) than GnRH (70.6%) and CON (68.7%). As in pregnancy rate, lambing rate was approximately 15% numerically greater (p&amp;gt;0.05) in the PMSG (79.1%) than in GnRH (64.7%) and CON (62.5%) groups. Similarly, litter size numerically higher (p&amp;gt;0.05) in PMSG (2.1) than GnRH (1.9) and CON (1.9) groups. Conclusion: The use of GnRH offered similar estrous response compared to PMSG in Romanov sheep synchronized with short-term protocol. However, PMSG had numerically higher pregnancy rate, lambing rate, and litter size than GnRH. Considering the serious ethical concerns and animal welfare for the production of PMSG, it is necessary to use alternatively gonadotropins. Comprehensive studies are needed to compare the fertility parameters between PMSG and GnRH in Romanov sheep.

Determining the Effects of Serial Injections of Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin on Plasma Testosterone Concentrations, Testicular Dynamics, and Semen Production in Leopard Geckos (Eublepharis macularius).

Simple SummaryCurrent estimates have determined that one in five reptile species are already threatened with extinction. The aim of this study was to determine if pregnant mare serum gonadotropin could be used in leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) to stimulate the production of sperm and increase their testosterone concentrations. This information may aid in the development of breeding programs for endangered gecko species in the future that will be useful for conservation efforts. Our results demonstrated that this hormone did stimulate sperm production and increased testicular size in leopard geckos. However, it did not increase testosterone concentrations under the current conditions between October–December in the Northern hemisphere. Ultimately, future studies are needed to further characterize the annual reproductive cycle of leopard geckos.Reptiles are highly susceptible to anthropogenic activities as a result of their narrow geographical ranges and habitat specialization, making them a conservation concern. Geckos represent one of the mega-diverse reptile lineages under pressure; however, limited assisted reproductive technologies currently exist for these animals. Exogenous pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) has been found to exhibit follicle stimulating hormone-like action and has been routinely used to alter reproductive hormones of vertebrates in assisted reproductive protocols. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of serial injections of 20 IU and 50 IU PMSG on circulating testosterone concentrations, testicular dynamics, and semen production in a model species of gecko. Twenty-four captive-bred, adult, male leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) were divided into three treatment groups and administered a once-weekly injection of either PMSG or saline for a total of nine weeks. Ultrasonographic testicular measurements, electrostimulation for semen collection, and venipuncture were performed on days 0, 21, 42, and 63. Right unilateral orchidectomies and epididymectomies were performed in all animals on day 63; tissues were submitted for histopathology. PMSG treated geckos had significantly higher testicular volumes and weights, spermatozoa motility, and spermatozoa concentrations compared with controls. However, there were no significant differences in testosterone concentrations by treatment or time. Under the conditions outlined, PMSG is effective at stimulating spermatogenesis and increasing testicular size, but not effective at increasing testosterone concentrations in the leopard gecko between October–December in the Northern hemisphere.

PERKEMBANGAN EMBRIO PREIMPLANTASI SECARA IN VIVO SETELAH PEMBERIAN EKSTRAK ETHANOL AKAR ALANG-ALANG (IMPERATA CYLINDRICA L) PER ORAL

Cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica L) is known as a medicinal plant that is scattered almost worldwide. Despite its role that inhibits another plant’s growth, cogon grass possesses several benefits in health. This research has to identify the effect of short-term gavage ethanolic extract of cogon grass roots (CGG) to in-vivo mice preimplantation embryo development. A total of 60 female mice were divided into control and treatment groups, dosages at 90 and 115 mg/kg of body weight of CGG, orally gavage for 20 days. The superovulation of mice was done at the end of the CGG treatment by injecting 5 IU Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin (PMSG) and after 48 hours, followed by 5 IU Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) injection and directly the mice were mated. The mating rate was checked by the appearance of the vaginal plug 12 hours after hCG injection. Mice were sacrificed, the oviducts and cornua of uteri were isolated to collect the oocytes and embryonic cells by flushing the oviducts and cornua uteri with Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). The effects of CGG as an antifertility were evaluated by measuring the number of oocytes, fertilization, and in-vitro embryo development rates. The results showed significantly reduced about half of the mating rate in the 115 mg/kg BW group (p&lt;0.05) compared to control. However, the 90 mg/kg BW dose reduced 20% mating rate compared to control, and not significant (p&gt;0.05). In all treatment groups, only half oocytes fertilized. The cleavage and blastocyst rate in 115 mg/kg BW group were significantly lower compared to the control group (p&lt;0.05). In conclusion, oral gavage of cogon grass root ethanolic extract disrupts the mating process and development of in-vivo mice preimplantation embryo development.

Improvement of First-Service Conception Rate in Dairy Cows after the Injection of Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin Six Days Postpartum

BACKGROUND: Early resumption of ovarian activity after parturition could positively influence the fertility of dairy cows. Ovulation of the first postpartum follicular wave and formation of corpus luteum that secretes progesterone can sub-stantially benefit the resumption of ovarian cyclicity in cows. In this regard, the presence of a dominant follicle in the ovary before day 10 postpartum could enhance ovulation rate in the first postpartum follicular wave. Pregnant mare serum gon-adotropin (PMSG) is one of the hormones with the potential to improve the growth of follicles. OBJECTIVES: Accordingly, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of PMSG injection six days after parturition on reproductive parameters in dairy cows. METHODS: The subjects were randomly assigned to the two groups of control (N=74) and treatment (N=79). Cows in the control group received no treatment, while animals in the treatment group received 500 IU PMSG on day six postpartum. In both experimental groups, cows were subjected to Presynch-Ovsynch protocol 30-35 days postpartum. The subjects that experienced estrus during the Presynch-Ovsynch protocol were inseminated. On the other hand, the cows that were not in estrus during this period were subjected to fixed-time insemination at the end of the Presynch-Ovsynch protocol. Pregnancy was diagnosed 45 days after artificial insemination using the rectal examination. RESULTS: In the control group, 66.22% of cows were inseminated based on estrus detection and 33.78% of cows were inseminated at fixed times. In the intervention group, 68.35% of cows were inseminated based on estrus detection and 31.65% of cows were inseminated at fixed times. The first-service conception rate (FSCR) was 27.03% and 48.1% in the control and treatment groups, respectively (p =0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed that the injection of 500 IU PMSG six days after parturition could enhance FSCR in dairy cows.

Ameliorative Effects of induced pluripotent stem cells on experimentally induced ovarian ablation in adult female rats

The current study designed to evaluate the role of pluripotent stem cells (iPSc) on experimentally-induced ovarian ablation (OA) by evaluating of hematological parameters, FSH and E2 changes, molecular and histopathological examination. 50 female rats were divided into five groups with 10 in each group. Group (1): control group. Group (2): rats injected with Doxorubicin (DOX) (3 mg/kg) and Cyclophosphamide (CYP) (50mg/kg) dissolved in sterile physiological saline injected I/P once a week for 5 weeks. Group (3): 10 rats undergo chemoablasion then injected with 5 IU of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) single s/c injection. Group (4): 10 rats undergo chemoablasion, then iPSc injected i/v single injection for 2 months. Group (5): 10 rats undergo chemoablasion then iPSc injected i/v combined with single s/c injection of 5 IU PMSG. Results revealed that rats injected with Dox and CYP showed asignificant decrease in RBCs, Hb and PCV, WBCs, lymphocytes, neutrophil, eosinophil, E2 level and Oct 4 while there was significant increase in MCV, MCH, monocytes and FSH level compared with control (-ve) group. While, rats treated with PMSG or IPSc or PMSG and IPSc revealed significant increase in RBCs count as well as MCHC, E2 level and Oct 4 with non significant changes in Hb and PCV, WBCs, lymphocytes, eosinophil with asignificant increase of neutrophil IPSc or PMSG and IPSc groups and asignificant decrease in monocytes compared with OA group and control (-ve) group.

Histochemical Study of the Rat Uterine Glycoconjugate Alteration following Treatment with Exogenous Gonadotropic Hormones during the Implantation Period.

One of the female causes of infertility is anovulation which is treatable with gonadotropin hormones. These hormones affect the molecular organization of the uterus such as glycoconjugates that are the first site of contact between the blastocyst and the uterus. The objective of this project was to study the alteration of glycoconjugates on the uterine apical, Golgi zone, and basement membrane of epithelial cells and the uterine gland after hyperstimulation with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) (4, 8, 16, 24, and 40 IU), during the implantation period. Injection of PMSG (in experimental groups) and injection of distilled water (in the control group) were followed by HCG administration (10 IU), mating, isolation of positive vaginal plug rats, and killing at 5.5 days of pregnancy. Histochemistry was done on the pregnant uterine horns with the use of WGA, DBA, PNA, ConA, SBA, and UEA lectins. The intensity of the immunohistochemical staining was scored, and quantitative data were generated. 4 IU did not show any significant differences with the control, 8 IU had less effect on the alteration of the Golgi zone, and apical and basement membrane glycoconjugates and 40 IU had the least effects on the alteration of uterine gland glycoconjugates. Also, 24 IU had the most effect on the alteration of uterine glycoconjugates. Understanding of the effects of gonadotropin hormones at the uterine level in implantation time helps to optimize hormonal manipulation for improving the outcome of assisted reproductive procedures. It seems that the optimal dose for superovulation and less alteration in uterine glycoconjugates of rats at implantation time were induced by the administration of 8 IU PMSG.

Improving ovulation in gilts using anti-inhibin serum treatment combined with fixed-time artificial insemination.

For successful batch farrowing, porcine oestrus and ovulation must be synchronized using fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). However, exogenous gonadotropins, which are currently used in FTAI, negatively affect gilt ovulation. Here, we aimed to improve sexually mature gilt superovulation efficiency using passive immunization against inhibin during FTAI. Altrenogest-treated gilts were challenged with 10ml anti-inhibin serum (AIS group, n=6), 1,000IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG group, n=6), or 10ml goat serum (control group, n=6). Gilts in the AIS and PMSG groups were inseminated according to the FTAI protocol, and gilts in the control group were inseminated during natural oestrus. When PMSG was replaced by AIS during FTAI of gilts, ovulation rate and embryos recovered were significantly greater in the AIS group as compared to the other two groups (p<.05). Especially the average number of 6-8-cell embryos in the AIS group was significantly higher than that in the PMSG group (p<.01). Moreover, the blastocyst number in the AIS group was significantly higher than that in the PMSG group and the control group (p<.05). But there was no significant difference in the blastocyst number between the PMSG group and the control group (p>.05). Besides, plasma levels of estradiol-β (E2) and progesterone (P4) were significantly greater in the AIS group as compared to the other two groups on Day 23 and D 27, respectively (p<.01). In summary, we devised an improved high-yield FTAI protocol for sexually mature gilts using AIS; this protocol had a greater superovulation efficiency than the FTAI using PMSG.

Effect of Cetrorelix administration on ovarian stimulation in aged mice.

In mice, ovarian stimulation via hormone administration is an effective method for obtaining many ova simultaneously, but its effect is reduced by the influence of aging. In this study, we demonstrate that this problem can be improved by administering the gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist Cetrorelix prior to ovarian stimulation. Before 12-month-old female mice were injected with 5 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin and 5 IU human chorionic gonadotropin, we administered 5 µg/kg Cetrorelix for 7 consecutive days (7 times) or 3 times once every 3 days. As a result, 8.7 ± 1.9 (mean ± SEM, n=10) and 9.8 ± 1.3 (n=10) oocytes were obtained, respectively, as opposed to 4.7 ± 1.2 oocytes (n=9) in the case of no administration. Collagen staining of ovarian tissue showed that Cetrorelix administration reduced the degree of fibrosis, which improved ovarian function. In addition, equivalent fertilization and fetal development rates between control and Cetrorelix-treated aged mouse-derived oocytes were confirmed by in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (Fertilization rate; control: 92.2% vs. 3 times: 96.9%/7 times: 88.5%, Birth rate; control: 56.4% vs. 3 times: 58.3%/7 times: 51.8%), indicating the normality of the obtained oocytes. It is concluded that Cetrorelix improved the effect of superovulation in aged mice without reducing oocyte quality. This procedure will contribute to animal welfare by extending the effective utilization of aged female breeding mice.

Eremomastax speciosa potentializes the PMSG-inducing effect on some physiological and biochemical parameters in PMSG-primed immature rats.

The present study evaluated the effect of the aqueous extract from leaves of E. speciosa on some physiological and biochemical parameters of reproduction and the onset of puberty in pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG)-primed immature female rats. High pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to quantify the phenolic compounds in the methanol/methylene chloride (1:1) extract, the ethanolic and ethyl acetate fractions and the aqueous residue of E. speciosa. E. speciosa (0, 8, 32 or 64 mg/kg) were administered for 15 days to 24 non-PMSG-primed and 24 primed rats with 0.01 IU of PMSG. At the end of the treatment period, animal were sacrificed and their body, ovarian, uterine weight, ovarian protein or cholesterol level, as well as data on puberty onset were recorded. Of the 16 polyphenolic compounds quantitatively revealed in the extracts and fractions of E. speciosa after HPLC analysis, quercetin, rutin, apigenin and eugenol were the most abundant. Non-primed rats showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the uterine relative weight at the dose of 8 mg/kg when compared with the other treatments. The uterine proteins and the ovarian cholesterol (P < 0.05), respectively, showed a reduction at doses of 64 mg/kg and 32 mg/kg in non-primed rats. However in PMSG-primed rats, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) was observed in ovarian cholesterol at 64 mg/kg. In conclusion, E. speciosa potentializes the PMSG-inducing effect on folliculogenesis in PMSG-primed rats.

Paraoxonase Activities, Total Sialic Acid Concentration and Lipid Profile After Use of Controlled Internal Drug Release (CIDR) in Gurcu Goats

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the use of controlled internal drug release (CIDR) in Gurcu goats for estrus synchronization on paraoxonase activity (PON1), total sialic acid (TSA) concentration and lipid profile. In the study, 50 Gurcu goats were examined. On day 9, 400 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin and 5 mg dinoprost tromethamine were injected. On day 11, CIDR was removed. Following estrus detection, goats on estrus mated with fertility proven Gurcu bucks (mating day). Biochemical analyses were conducted with samples taken on day 0, day 11 and mating day. An increase in TSA concentration and a decrease in PON1 activity was detected according to synchronization days (day 0, day 11, mating day). A decrease was found in total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein concentrations. On day 11, an increase in TSA concentration and a decrease in PON1 activity was detected compared to control group. According to synchronization days (day 0, day 11, mating day), it was determined that TSA concentration increased in pregnant and non-pregnant goats (P=0.007 and P=0.013, respectively) and PON1 activity decreased (P=0.004). A negative correlation was determined between PON1 and TC (r=-401, P&lt;0.05). In conclusion, CIDR treatment caused changes in PON1 activity, TSA concentration and lipid profile, on the other hand, did not negatively affect fertility.

Performance of Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin and Vitamin Mix in Inducing Striped Catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus Rematuration

The research aimed to assess the performance of Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin (PMSG) and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) hormone injection combined with vitamin mix to induce the rematuration of Striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus broodstock. Three PMSG and HCG treatments of 5 and 2,5 IU; 10 and 5 IU;also 20 and 10 IU/kg of broodstock body weight dosage combined with vitamin mix addition to fish feed and one control was used with four replications. The broodstock was reared for four weeks and weekly sampling for GR and SGR as well as hormone injection were performed. For the following two weeks, the broodstock was observed for maturation. Artificial spawning was conducted for broodstock reaching gonadal maturity. Statistic analysis of observed variables showed insignificant differences among the three treatments in rematuration parameters. The rematuration rate resulted in a 100% pregnancy. Broodstock treated with 10 IU PMSG and 5 IU HCG/kg of spawner body weight was able to reach maturity and spawned with the larval survival rate on the fourth day at 84,81%, thus it can be concluded that 10 IU PMSG and 5 IU HCG/kg of body weight as the best dosage.

Repeated pregnant mare serum gonadotropin-mediated oestrous synchronization alters gene expression in the ovaries and reduces reproductive performance in dairy goats.

This study aimed to elucidate the effects of repeated pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) treatment for oestrous synchronization (ES) on ovarian gene expression and reproductive parameters in Xinong Saanen dairy goats, the dominant breed of dairy goat in China. The experiment was carried out at the Research Station of Northwest A&F University (NWAFU), China (34°16'N, 108°4'E). Forty-one does were randomly assigned to groups receiving ES treatments thrice every fortnight (3-PMSG group; n=19), or ES treatment only once simultaneously with the third ES treatment in the 3-PMSG group (1-PMSG group; n=22) during middle of the breeding season from late July (14hr light) until late September (12hr light). ES treatment was performed via intravaginal insertion of a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device impregnated with 300mg progesterone (P4), followed by 300IU PMSG injections 48hr before CIDR withdrawal. Oestrus was monitored using vasectomized bucks. Ovaries of three goats in oestrus from both groups were harvested for morphological examination and RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). Then, all the oestrous goats in the 1-PMSG (n=21) and 3-PMSG (n=11) groups were artificially inseminated twice. The 3-PMSG group showed reduced oestrous rate (57.89%), pregnancy rate (31.58%) and litter size (1.17) compared, respectively, with 95.45%, 68.18% and 1.67 for 1-PMSG group (p<0.05). However, no differences were found in the ovarian morphology between the 1-PMSG and 3-PMSG groups (p>0.05). RNA-Seq revealed 114 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the ovaries of the 3-PMSG group, among which GCG, FSTL3, TET3 and AQP3 were deemed novel and promising candidate genes for regulating fertility. The present study indicates that the three-time PMSG treatment dysregulated several ovarian genes, thereby reducing reproductive performance.

Improving the Quality of Oocytes of Old and Productive Ages White Rats (Rattus norvegicus) Using Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotrophin

Abstract This study was conducted to improve the quality of oocytes in old-female rats by using pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG). Female rats at productive age were used as a control. The experimental rats were injected with 4 doses of PMSG i.e., 0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10 IU PMSG. After 2 weeks of acclimation to the experimantal condition, the experimental rats were injected with PGF2α at a dose of 25µg/g BW two times with 2 days interval to synchronize estrous cycle. PMSG injections were conducted at the same time with the second PGF2α injection. After PMSG injection, the experimental rats were divided into two groups rats, i.e., rats without mating for masurement of oocyte qualities and rats mated for measurement of offspring qualities. Therefore, 16 experimental rats from each age group were sacrifized for maeasurement of oocyte qualities. The other 16 experimental rats for each age group were mated for measurement of offspring qualities. Parameters measured were hematological profile, uterine and ovarian weights, the qualities of oocytes, the qualities of the offsspring born by using swimming test and rat maze test. The collected data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and continued with Duncan test with a 95% confidence level. The data were analyzed using SSPS. The results showed that the improvement in the quality of oocytes in old female rats using the PMSG hormone in this study showed an increase in the quality of oocytes in old and productive age rats. The highest number of oocyte quality was found in rats of productive age (3.25) and significantly different (P&lt; 0.05) from the other oocyte qualities. The quality of offspring born to old age and productive age rats injected with PMSG were improved. It was concluded that the improvement of oocyte quality by using PMSG also improves offspring qualities.

Gonadotrophin stimulation of ewes that are not pregnant following multiple matings during the season

In this study, the aim was to obtain pregnancy following synchronization and to increase profitability in ewes that did not become pregnant during the breeding season after at least 3 matings. Nonpregnant Middle Anatolian Merino ewes (n = 117) were given a progesterone sponge for 9 days. At the time of sponge removal, the ewes received 250 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) + 125 µg prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α). Two days later, they were injected with either human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) (Group I, n = 48) or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) (Group II, n = 43), or remained as a control (Group III, n = 26). The ewes were allowed to mate at estrus following the PGF2α injection. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed on day 30 after mating by ultrasonography. Group ratios for estrus (58.3%, 55.8%, 53.8%), conception (78.6%, 87.5%, 14.3%), lambing (90.9%, 90.5%, 50.0%), multiple births (15.0%, 31.6%, 0.0%), and average lamb number for birth (1.15%, 1.31%, 1.0%) were reported. In conclusion, the gonadotropin-supplemented protocols used here were found to be useful in ewes that were not pregnant after multiple matings during the breeding season in increasing the profitability of flocks with this problem.