Postpartum Anestrus Research Articles

The Efficacy of Slow-Release Copper Capsule Administration on Postpartum Anestrus in Dairy Cows

Deficiency of single or multiple minerals or their imbalances may cause various reproductive failures, such as infertility, poor conception, and anestrus. Copper deficiency is related to reproductive disorders. This study investigated the effects of slow-release copper bolus administration in postpartum anestrus cows.

Differentially expressed transcripts study during pregnancy and postpartum anestrus of yak (Bos grunniens)

Background: Yak is the main livestock species in the plateau area, and its reproductive performance is low, usually two years or three years. A very few of yaks recover within a certain period of time after delivery and smoothly enter the next estrous cycle, while most of them enter the postpartum anestrus and show no estrus performance. However, the key biological factors and influencing mechanisms that cause postpartum anestrus in yaks are not clear. Objective: To study the expression of differential transcripts in ovaries of yak during pregnancy and postpartum anestrus. Methods: Each three yaks in pregnancy and anestrus under natural grazing conditions in Haiyan County, Qinghai Province were selected and slaughtered, and their ovaries were collected and sent to Biomarker Technologies. Oxford Nanopore Technologies single-molecule real-time electrical signal sequencing technology was used to perform full-length transcriptome sequencing. Astalavista software was used to identify the types of alternative splicing events in yak estrus and pregnancy, and TAPIS pipeline was used to identify alternative polyadenylation. Results: The results showed that there were 1751 differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) between pregnancy and anestrus in yak, of which 808 were upregulated and 943 were downregulated. GO analysis showed that the biological processes of DETs were mainly reproductive, reproductive and rhythmic processes. KEGG analysis showed that the DET cell junction-related adhesion junction protein (β-catenin) and amino terminal kinase (JNK) were involved in FAs (local adhesion). Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) is involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Circadian rhythm output cycle failure (Clock) and brain and muscle tissue aromatic hydrocarbon receptor nuclear transporter-like protein 1 (Bmal1) are involved in circadian rhythm signaling pathway. Conclusion: This study found that β-catenin, JNK, PI3K, Clock and Bmal1 were closely related to postpartum anestrus in yak.

Contributing factors to repeat breeding and postpartum anestrus and pregnancy rate subsequent to hormonal intervention in crossbred dairy cows

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to July 2021 to determine the prevalence and contributing factors to repeat breeding (RB) and postpartum anestrus (PPA) in crossbred dairy cattle in the central highland of Ethiopia. Furthermore; a retrospective study was used to collect data on the occurrence of RB and PPA and the associated risk factors. The pregnancy rate was determined by rectal palpation on day 60 after hormonal therapy using double PGF2α and GnRH in combination with PGF2α. (Ovsynch). The prevalence of RB and PPA was 33.85% and 30.73%, respectively. Body condition score, parity, milk yield, herd size, abortion, and mastitis all revealed a statistically significant association (p < 0.05) with the prevalence of RB and PPA. Cows with a previous history of abortion were 2.58 times at risk of repeat breeding than those without. Similarly, cows with a previous history of mastitis were 2.63 times more at risk of RB than cows that didn’t encounter the disease. Previously aborted and older cows with greater parity numbers were 2.89 and 1.23 times more affected by PPA, respectively. Moreover, endometritis and retained fetal membrane showed significant association (p<0.05) with postpartum anestrus. The pregnancy rates in cows treated with double PGF2α and GnRH + PGF2α (Ovsynch) were 41.46% and 29.17%, respectively. It is concluded that the occurrence of RB and PPA in the research area was influenced by parity, body condition, and daily milk yield of the cow. Reproductive health problems including abortion retained fetal membranes, endometritis, and mastitis affected the prevalence of RB and PPA. Although the use of double PGF2α or in combination with GnRH has resumed cyclicity in RB and PPA dairy cows, the pregnancy rates are yet low. Hence, a study that utilizes detailed hormonal assay profiles and reproductive-related blood metabolites should be done.

Follicular Development in Post-partum Anoestrus Buffaloes during Breeding Season

Follicular Development in Post-partum Anoestrus Buffaloes during Breeding Season

Treatment of Inactive Ovaries of Holstein Dairy Cows by Epidural Injection of GnRH Analogue (Receptal) and Its Impact on the Reproductive Hormones, Oxidant/Antioxidant Profile and Micro and Macro-Elements Profile

This study was designed to evaluate a new therapeutic approach for inactive ovaries based on the epidural administration of a GnRH agonist (Receptal) and an investigation of the impact of this treatment on the hormonal, oxidant/antioxidant and micro- and macro-element profiles. Sixty cows with postpartum anestrus were divided into two groups: the first group (group Repid, n = 30) was administered an epidural injection of Receptal, while the second group (group Cepid, n = 30) received saline and was considered the control group. Evaluation of hormonal (progesterone, FSH, LH, testosterone, and cortisol), oxidant/antioxidant (MDA, SOD, GPx and TAC) as well as micro- and macroelement (calcium, phosphorus, manganese and magnesium) profiles was done in serum. The results showed that the epidural injection of Receptal has the potential to induce estrus response and conception incidence in treated cows. Compared to the control group, progesterone, FSH, and LH concentrations were significantly increased in the treated group, whereas testosterone and cortisol decreased (p < 0.05) following treatment. In addition, the treated group had greater TAC and GPx concentrations than the control group. Serum concentrations of magnesium increased (p < 0.05) following receptal treatment, but differences in other minerals were not detected. This research suggests a novel, effective method of treating inactive ovaries with epidural infusion of a GnRH agonist.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Postpartum Anestrus in Dairy Cows of Sylhet District, Bangladesh

The objectives of current study were to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with postpartum anestrus in lactating dairy cows in Sylhet region, Bangladesh. A total of 420 postpartum cows of different breed and age were selected randomly from different dairy farms in studied area. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from farm owner on prevalence and risk factors for postpartum anestrus. Observed heat within 60 days after parturition was considered as normal cyclic cows and others were considered as postpartum anestrus. The prevalence of postpartum anestrus was 36.20%. The study shows that older cows take relatively more time for ovarian resumption. Cow’s having first parity shows cyclicity within 60 days of parturition, and postpartum anestrus increases significantly with the advancement of parity. Postpartum anestrus was significantly higher (P&lt; 0.001) in cows with poor (≤1.0) and excessive (&gt;3) body condition scores (BCS), respectively, compared to those with moderate/optimal BCS (2–3). The postpartum cyclicity in cows within 60 days with a history of normal placental expulsion was significantly higher than in the cows with RFM. Ovarian cyclicity was highest (75.92%) among the cows that were maintained in adequate hygienic conditions and lowest (43.51%) in a poor environment. The highest percentage (88.10%) of cows showed postpartum cyclicity with a history of short lactation length (0-150 days) and resumption of postpartum estrous cycle increases significantly with lactation length. Resumption of postpartum estrus cycles in cows takes more time with a history of minimal (&lt;15 liters) daily milk production than the cow with medium (&gt;15-25 liters) daily milk production. Cows get an adequate feed supply (both concentrate and green grass), which shows a positive effect on postpartum cyclicity. Pre and postpartum complications have a significant (p&lt;0.001) effect on the postpartum cyclicity of cows. Endometritis (81.25%) followed by pyometra (75.76%) were recorded as major reproductive obstacles in ovarian resumption, whereas uterine prolapse (70.59%) followed by abortion (61.54%), milk fever (58.33%), stillbirth (58.33%) and dystocia (57.63%) were the major recorded complications in post-partum phase. The study also revealed that the non-restricted suckling period has a significant (p&lt;0.001) negative effect on ovarian resumption. The risk factors including parity, BCS, placental expulsion, hygienic condition, lactation length, daily milk production and management system were significantly (P&lt;0.01) influenced the postpartum cyclicity. Maintaining optimal BCS of cows, proper hygienic and good management practice, and farmer's training on management of cattle reproduction would improve the number of cows for breeding by 60 days postpartum.

Screening the Health Status of Postpartum Anoestrus Cows of Biratnagar of Nepal

High yielding dairy cattle are often prone to postpartum anestrus that retards both production and reproductive performances. To investigate the postpartum anestrus, 21 nondescript dairy cows raised in and around Biratnagar have been included in this study. The basic information regarding the breeding history, nutritional status, milk yield, suckling and frequency of milking were obtained on request from the owners. Fecal samples were collected directly from the rectum of all cows to diagnose the parasitic infestations. Rectal palpation was performed to explore the status of the ovary and other reproductive tracts. Blood samples were collected through jugular vein puncture in vials with and without anticoagulant for hematological and serobiochemical analysis. Rectal palpation revealed inactive ovaries in most of the dairy cows. The fecal and blood samples had been forwarded to Regional Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Biratnagar for further analysis. Fecal examination resulted in severe parasitic infestations in 90.47% of dairy cows. The predominantly observed parasites were Paramphistomum (38%) followed by Paramphistomum + Nematodes (19%), Nematodes (9%), Liver fluke + Nematodes (9%), Liver fluke (5%), Liver fluke + Paramphistomum (5%) and Nematodes + Moniezia expansa (5%). Among all, 47.61%, 42.85%, 28.57%, 23.80% and 4.76% of cows revealed lower values for total protein (TP), hemoglobin (Hb), calcium (Ca), packed cell volume (PCV), glucose (Glc) and inorganic phosphorus (P), respectively. However, 23.80% and 9.52% of cows showed higher values of inorganic P and Glc. It was concluded that lower values of TP, Hb, Ca, PCV, Glc and inorganic P rightly held responsible for the condition of postpartum anoestrus in cows. An improved managemental practices and nutritional status of cows is suggested for the management of postpartum anoestrus in cows.

Prohibition of hormones in animal reproduction: what to expect and what to do?

As our understanding of ovarian function in cattle has improved, our ability to control it has also increased. The development of Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI) protocols at the end of the 20th century has increased exponentially the number of animals inseminated over the last 20 years. The main reasons for this growth were the possibility of obtaining acceptable pregnancy rates without heat detection and, above all, the induction of cyclicity in suckled cows in postpartum anestrus and prepubertal heifers at the beginning of the breeding season. Most FTAI treatments in South America have been based on the use of progesterone (P4) releasing devices and estradiol to synchronize both follicular wave emergence and ovulation, with pregnancy rates ranging from 40 to 60%. These protocols are implemented on a regular basis, allowing producers access to high-quality genetics, and increasing the overall pregnancy rates during the breeding season. In addition, it provided the professionals involved in these programs with a new source of income and the diversification of their practices into activities other than their usual clinical work. Many of these practices are now apparently at risk from restrictions on the use of estradiol by the European Union (EU) and other countries. However, the development of alternative protocols based on GnRH, with P4 devices and eCG and other new products that are not in the market yet will allow us to adapt to the new times that are coming. Logically, the challenge has already been raised and we must learn to use alternative protocols to try to continue increasing the use of this technology in beef and dairy herds. The objective of the present review is to describe the main aspects of banning estradiol in livestock production, the negative impacts on reproductive efficiency, and to present some alternative FTAI protocols for dairy and beef cattle.

Efficacy of Hormonal Protocols on Haematological and Micro-minerals Parameters in Postpartum Anestrus Cows

Thirty six post partum anestrus cows were selected for the present research work. Group I (n=12) were treated with CIDR based protocols and Group II (n=12) were administered Ovsynch protocol and Group III (n=12) was kept as a untreated control. In Group I, II and III the values of Hematological parameters like Hb (9.00±0.17, 9.15±0.15 and 8.65±0.30, 8.66±0.20, 8.73±0.20 and 8.25±0.20, 7.76±0.16, 7.69±0.32 and 8.18±0.18 g/dl) RBC (7.28±0.37, 9.15±0.15 and 8.65±0.30, 7.20±0.38, 8.73±0.20 and 8.25±0.33, 5.77±0.32, 7.69±0.32 and 8.18±0.18 x1012/l) and TLC 10.36±0.26, 10.49±0.25 and 9.77±0.40, 9.67±0.28, 9.90±0.47 and 8.08±0.57, 8.29±0.53, 7.98±0.54 and 8.63±0.44 x109/l) on Day 0, 7 and 25 were recorded in Group I, II and III, respectively. Microminerals parameters (μg/dl) like Iron (147.9±4.44, 147.9±4.44 and 150.1±7.84, 143.4±4.5, 158.2±4.65 and 149.4±7.71, 118.6±3.23, 118.6±3.12 and 118.4±3.04) Cobalt (1.8±0.14, 2.2±0.10 and 1.99±0.11, 1.7±0.10, 2.1±0.08 and 1.74±0.13, 1.6±0.12, 1.5±0.10 and 1.6±0.11) Copper (0.65±0.02, 0.78±0.03 and 0.71±0.04, 0.63±0.01, 0.77±0.03 and 0.69±0.03, 0.64±0.02, 0.63±0.02 and 0.65±0.02) and Zinc (87.6±1.18, 104.9±2.00 and 96.4±3.27, 86.7±1.22, 104.7±2.02 and 93.6±2.51, 85.5±1.03, 85.6±1.02 and 86.5±0.92) on Day 0, 7 and 25 were recorded in Group I, II and III, respectively. It can be concluded that the use of different hormonal protocols in postpartum anestrus cows has shown different effects on haematological and micro-minerals parameters.

Serum Trace Minerals Profile in Anestrus Buffaloes Treated With Different Estrus Synchronization Protocols

The present study was conducted to analyse the serum trace minerals (copper, cobalt, iron, zinc, manganese and selenium) concentration in postpartum anestrus buffaloes. A total of 24 postpartum anestrus buffaloes were randomly selected after taking reproductive history and gynaeco-clinical examination 10 days apart. These 24 animals were divided into four groups; Group A (Ovsynch), Group B (Heatsynch) and Group C (CIDR plus Ovsynch) and Control group (no treatment) each containing six animals. Blood sample was collected on day 0, 7, 9 and 10 of treatment and serum was analysed for various trace minerals. The mean serum copper level (µg/ml) increased significantly (p&lt;0.01) from day 0 to day 7, 9 and 10 in group A, B and C. The mean serum cobalt concentration increased significantly (p&lt;0.05) from day 0 to day 7, 9 and 10 in group A, B and C. Serum iron concentration increased significantly (p&lt;0.05) from day 0 to day 9 and 10 except on day 7 in group A, B and C and on day 9 in group A. The mean zinc level (µg/ml) increased significantly (p&lt;0.05) in group B and C on day 9 and 10 except day 7. The serum manganese concentration on day 0 increased significantly (p&lt;0.01) to day 9 and 10, the value on day 0 was also found significant from day 7 in group C. The mean serum selenium, the value on day 0 increased significantly (p&lt;0.01) to day 7, 9 and 10 in group A, B and C except the value on day 7 in group B. Thus, it could be concluded that deficiency of copper, iron, zinc and selenium either alone or in combination could be responsible for anestrus condition. By improving the trace minerals status, fertility can be improved in buffaloes.

Induction of Estrus in Postpartum Anestrus Crossbred Cattle

The present experiment was designed for estrus induction in post-partum anestrus cattle. A total of 120 cows were examined for reproductive status, and 30 were incorporated in induction, including 24 anestrus and 6 normal cyclic cows. The cows were assigned to 5 groups (6 animals per group). The group-1 cows were induced using Ovsynch protocol, while group-2 cows were inserted TRIU-B (958 mg progesterone) intra-vaginal and were inseminated at a fixed time. The group-3 cows were supplemented with a standard chelated mineral mixture of 40 g per-oral daily for 45 days and were inseminated on observed estrus. Group-4 included normal cyclic untreated cows inseminated at estrus. The group-5 included untreated anestrus control cows. Estrus induction response was 100% in groups 1 and 2, 66.66%, and 0.00% in groups 3 and 5, respectively. The conception rate in groups 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 were 33.33%, 50.00%, 75.00%, 83.33% and 0.00%, respectively. The mean serum progesterone in different groups increased non-significantly from days 0 to 21 post- insemination. All groups’ mean serum calcium increased significantly from day 0 to day 21. However, the mean serum phosphorus showed no such significant differences between and within the groups. It was noticed that the overall Ca:P ratio was disturbed (Ca being on the lower side) in the animals under study, which might be attributed to the animals’ anestrus condition. In conclusion, the Ovsynch, TRIU-B, and standard mineral mixture proved useful for induction of estrus and ovulation and enhancement of pregnancy rate in post-partum anestrus cows

Ultrasonographical and hormonal comparative between true and postpartum anestrus of cows in south of Iraq

Anestrus is one of the major reproductive problems. A total of 218 local breed cows were diagnosed as 105 cows with true anestrus and 113 cows with postpartum anestrus. The results indicated that most cases of postpartum anestrus were concentrated from December to May, while the true anestrus occurred from May to September. The most important causes that were diagnosed by ultrasound for true anestrus cases were inactivity of the ovaries and anovulatory follicles. A high percentage of postpartum anestrus cases were suffered from luteinizing cysts, ovarian inactivity. Hormonal assay for inactive ovaries in true and postpartum anestrus cases revealed a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05) in the levels of estrogen, progesterone, FSH and LH. While the hormonal results of postpartum anestrus cases revealed a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05) in the estrogen with a significant increase (p&lt;0.05) in the progesterone in case of luteal cyst, persistent corpus luteum and cystic corpus luteum which accompanied by a significant increase (p&lt;0.05) in the prolactin .The ultrasonographical features for true anestrus showed an increase in echo rates for ovaries. In postpartum anestrus cases the luteal cyst revealed 2.88-2.90cm follicle like structure. While the cases of persistent corpus luteum showed 1.15cm-1.75cm dense theca tissue.

Investigation of constraints to health and production of cattle in North-East Bangladesh

The study was designed to investigate the constraints to health and productivity of dairy farms and their possible remedies in Sadar Upazila (sub-district) of Sylhet, Sreemangal Upazila at Moulavi Bazar, Chatak and South Sunamgonj Upazila at Sunamgonj districts. Ninety dairy farms including marginal and small (2-10 cows), medium (11-25 cows) and large (&gt;25 cows) of urban, suburban and rural areas were randomly selected for multistage sampling. Farmers were interviewed using pre-tested questionnaire. The major constraints were high price of concentrate, poor knowledge of feeding, scarcity of forage, weak recording system, cost of high yielding well-adapted milking cows, prolonged postpartum anoestrus, repeat breeding, incorrect timing of AI, mastitis, low pregnancy rate, lack of milk co-operative, weak milk marketing and high veterinary cost. To overcome the current situation government should give incentives on cattle feed and credit facility with soft interest to the farmers; DLS and other organizations should arrange effective training on dairy farm management. The Bangladesh Veterinarian (2020) 37(1 - 2): 1-13

Meprin A1 subunit beta gene polymorphism is associated with the length of post-partum anestrus interval in Murrah buffaloes.

Postpartum anestrus interval (PPAI) is the interval between parturition and the first postpartum estrus exhibition in animals. Appearance of both normal and PPA buffaloes under the same farm conditions indicates the role of possible genetic predisposition to PPA. To identify the genetic and non-genetic factors associated with PPA in buffaloes, we collected data on PPAI and other 38 non-genetic variables from 575 Murrah buffaloes in the field conditions and identified the PPA associated non-genetic factors in our previous study. To explore the genetic factors associated with the unexplained variation in PPAI residuals, the present study identified 41 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 13 candidate genes using Sanger sequencing. Exploration of their association with the PPAI residuals of 50 extreme PPA and 50 normal buffaloes identified the significant (P<0.01) association of the SNP (g.37219977A>G) in the 3'-UTR region of the Meprin A 1 subunit beta (Mep1b) gene with PPAI, which was further validated (P=0.058) in a large population sample (n=417). Bioinformatics analysis of the 3'-UTR region has identified three miRNA, bta-miR-2420, bta-miR-2325b and bta-miR-453 that could regulate Igf-1 in the plasma of animals with different genotypes (GG, AG and AA). The higher Igf-1 levels in the GG genotypes than that of AA and AG genotypes of this SNP (g.37219977A>G) further suggest the association of Mep1b gene with PPA condition in Murrah buffaloes. As a result of this study, we propose that buffaloes with protective alleles at this SNP be selected to improve the herd's reproductive efficiency.

A single nucleotide polymorphism of the thyrotropin releasing hormone degrading ectoenzyme (TRHDE) gene is associated with post-partum anestrus in Murrah buffalo

Thyrotropin releasing hormone degrading enzyme (TRHDE) gene is implicated in Thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) mediated prolactin secretion. It has been shown that the prolactin secretion alters the Gonadotropin-releasinghormone(GnRH) mediated estrous cycle. Therefore, TRHDE may also regulate postpartum anestrus. Earlier studies reported the role of non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) in various pathophysiological conditions by altering the structure and function of the proteins. Hence, in the present study, we identified SNPs in the putative promoter, first exon, middle exon and 3′-UTR containing the last exon of TRHDE gene and determined their association with postpartum anestrus (PPA) in Murrah buffaloes. We found one non synonymous SNP (G > C at 118095875 bp on chromosome 4) in the first exon of TRHDE and performed its association analysis in a population sample of 50 extreme PPA (residual PPAI: 123.06 ± 12.98 days) and 50 normal (residual PPAI: −80.46 ± 3.19 days) buffaloes. The residual PPAI value was the observed PPAI adjusted for the effect of 38 non-genetic factors. The analysis showed a significant (P < 0.004167) association of this SNP with PPA in buffaloes. Molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) also supported that the C allele altering Glutamine to Histidine at the amino acid 148 of TRHDE could enhance the stability and rigidity of TRHDE protein, which may lower its activity, increase TRH and prolactin, and reduce GnRH in PPA buffaloes. The MDS analysis further strengthens the association of the SNP (G > C) in the TRHDE gene with PPA condition in Murrah buffaloes. However, further investigation is needed to prove the MDS observations.

EVALUATION OF ACUTE ORAL TOXICITY OF A HERBAL UTERINE

Maintaining optimum reproductive health of animal is crucial for profitability in livestock enterprises and boosting the economy of farmers. However, the reproductive efficiency of animals is commonly reduced by problems such as puerperal metritis, clinical endometritis, pyometra, subclinical endometritis, early embryonic mortality, repeat breeding, retention of foetal membranes, and post-partum anestrus. ExaparTM Liquid (M/s Ayurvet Limited, India) is a polyherbal uterine cleanser and restorative that helps to achieve and restore better post-partum reproductive efficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Exapar TM Liquid to induce acute oral toxicity in mice as per OECD 423 guidelines. Nine healthy and adult nulliparous, non-pregnant Swiss albino female mice, weighing 24-28 g, were used for the study. The animals were observed for the manifestation of toxic effects and mortality after the oral administration of the test substance. Toxicity was evaluated on the basis of changes in body weight, signs of toxicity, gross and histological appearances of vital organs, and blood biochemistry. Exapar TM Liquid was found safe for oral use as no toxic effects or mortalities were observed up to the completion of experiment.

Effect of Dorper Rams’ Social-Sexual Hierarchy on Their Sexual Behavior and Capacity to Induce Estrus in Ewes

This study aimed to assess the influence of the social rank of rams and quality of stimuli to ewes between dominant and subordinate Dorper rams joined to anestrus ewes. Social rank was evaluated for two days (ESR; n = 36); rams were exposed to estrogenized ewes in a competitive test. According to the reproductive response, anovulatory ewes (n = 76) were divided into two groups: LHRe (n = 38; ewes exposed to four low hierarchy rams (LHR)) and HHRe (n = 38; ewes exposed to four high hierarchy rams (HHR)). Regarding aggressive behaviors, HHR showed a higher (p &lt; 0.05) proportion of rams showing threatening, knocking, and blocking behaviors than LHR. Appetitive behavior was higher (p &lt; 0.05) in HHR than LHR rams (3576 ± 0.7 vs. 3054 ± 0.7 number of events). Consummatory sexual behavior was higher (p &lt; 0.05) in HHR than LHR (499 ± 0.3 vs. 205 ± 0.1 number of events). Indicators of sexual inactivity (SRI) were similar between HHR and LHR (499 ± 0.3 vs. 433 ± 0.1; p &gt; 0.05). The estrus response (&gt;80%; p &gt; 0.05) and ovarian response (70%, p &gt; 0.05) were similar for both groups of ewes. It was concluded that LHR are equally effective as HHR in inducing sexual activity in ewes showing postpartum anestrus.

Impact of polyherbal formulation oral administration on the estrus response, luteal activity, and oxidative stress in postpartum dairy cows with ovarian subfunction.

Background and Aim:The reproductive performance of dairy cows is of a high economic value to maintain efficient and sustainable productivity. Postpartum anestrus is one of the major infertility problems that cause limitation of dairy cow reproductive performance and productivity. The previous studies have reported using a polyherbal formulation for different purposes, including reproductive performance. This study was conducted to examine the efficacy of polyherbal formulation administration on the reproductive performance of cows and to establish the oral administration of polyherbal formulations as a safe, effective, and economic treatment for dairy cows with postpartum anestrus due to nutritional disorders, negative energy balance, high milk production, and/or heat stress.Materials and Methods:A total of 14 dairy cows with postpartum anestrus were randomly divided into two groups, which were subjected to oral administration of distilled water that served as the control (Ctrl; n=5) or polyherbal treatment (polyherbal treated; n=9) for two shots of treatment (each for 3 successive days) with a 10-day interval. Blood sampling and ultrasonography were performed before treatment and after the first and second shots of treatment. Progesterone (P4) assay was also performed.Results:The estrus induction rate was 66.7% after the first shot of treatment in the polyherbal-treated group, which increased significantly to 88.9% after the second shot of treatment, compared with the Ctrl group (20%). The estrus response was confirmed by ultrasonography and P4 hormone assay, wherein the polyherbal treatment significantly increased the P4 concentration in the polyherbal-treated group after the second shot of treatment compared to that before treatment and in the Ctrl group at all time points. On pregnancy diagnosis, the treated dairy cows showed conception rates of 66.7% and 20.0% in the polyherbal-treated and Ctrl groups, respectively. In contrast, the concentration of malondialdehyde, an oxidative stress marker, and the total antioxidant capacity remained unchanged between both groups before and after treatment.Conclusion:The polyherbal formulation containing tubers of C. rotundus, M. pterygosperma, rhizome of Z. officinale, and A. cepa has the potential to induce estrus response and luteal activity in dairy cows and is a possible treatment for ovarian inactivity in dairy farms.

Effect of Sex Sorted Semen in Synchronized Estrus on Pregnancy Rate and Female Ratio in Gir Cows

Background: At present there is huge demand for Gir cow females however, prolonged inter calving period, more inseminations per conception and post-partum anestrus are the predominant reproductive disorder along with use of unsexed semen limit the birth of more females in Gir cows. The present research study was conducted to study the effect of sex sorted semen in synchronized estrus with Ovsynch protocol on pregnancy rate and gender ratio in Gir cows. Methods: Total twenty Gir cows that have completed post-partum period of sixty days with normal reproductive genitalia, without clinical as well as subclinical infection were selected and divided into two equal groups. The cows from both the groups were synchronized with Ovsynch protocol. In Group- I (n=10), the cows were inseminated with sex sorted semen while in Group-II, the cows were inseminated with coneventional semen. The pregnancy rate and gender ratio was recorded. Result: Efficacy of estrus synchronization was 100.00 per cent for Gir cows treated by Ovsynch protocol in both groups. The pregnancy rate was numerically lower after AI with sex sorted semen (40%) than conventional semen (50%) and results are non significant (P less than 0.05) with 100% calving rate. The proportion of female calves born from sex sorted semen AI was 75% and from conventional semen was 60%. The proportion of live calves born from sex sorted and conventional semen AI was 100%. The sex sorted semen may be used in Ovsynch protocol in Gir cows.

Transcriptome and proteome analysis of pregnancy and postpartum anoestrus ovaries in yak.

BackgroundDomestic yaks are the most important livestock species on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Adult female yaks normally breed in the warm season (July to September) and enter anestrous in the cold season (November to April). Nevertheless, it is unclear how ovarian activity is regulated at the molecular level.ObjectivesThe peculiarities of yak reproduction were assessed to explore the molecular mechanism of postpartum anestrus ovaries in yaks after pregnancy and parturition.MethodsSixty female yaks with calves were observed under natural grazing in Haiyan County, Qinghai Province. Three yak ovaries in pregnancy and postpartum anestrus were collected. RNA sequencing and quantitative proteomics were employed to analyze the pregnancy and postpartum ovaries after hypothermia to identify the genes and proteins related to the postpartum ovarian cycle.ResultsThe results revealed 841 differentially expressed genes during the postpartum hypoestrus cycle; 347 were up-regulated and 494 genes were down-regulated. Fifty-seven differential proteins were screened: 38 were up-regulated and 19 were down-regulated. The differential genes and proteins were related to the yak reproduction process, rhythm process, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, and MAPK signaling pathway categories.ConclusionsTranscriptome and proteomic sequencing approaches were used to investigate postpartum anestrus and pregnancy ovaries in yaks. The results confirmed that BHLHE40, SF1IX1, FBPX1, HSPCA, LHCGR, BMP15, and ET-1R could affect postpartum hypoestrus and control the state of estrus.