Retention Of Fetal Membranes Research Articles

Cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in placental separation in the bovine: A review.

Retention of fetal membranes (RFM), where the fetal placenta is not expelled within 8-12 hr after calving, lowers bovine productivity and fertility, resulting in significant economic loss to the dairy industry. Several risk factors that predispose an individual to RFM are known, but a unifying pathogenesis remains elusive due to its multifactorial etiology. Fetal membrane separation and expulsion after parturition involves structural and immunological changes of the bovine placentome that are governed predominantly by steroid hormones and the prostaglandin milieu of late pregnancy and parturition. Maturation of the placentome, a gradual and concerted event of late gestation, is likely initiated by the up-regulation of fetal major histocompatibility complex class I in the interplacentomal region-which increases the apoptosis of binucleate and other trophoblastic cells, the degradation of collagen in the extracellular matrix by matrix metalloproteinases, and an influx of phagocytic leukocytes. Shear force further distorts the crypt architecture of the mature placentomes when they are forced against the fetus during the second stage of labor. Cotyledon dehiscence from the caruncular crypts is completed following fetal expulsion as a result of acute shrinkage of the cotelydonary villi as well as reduced perfusion to the caruncle; the secundinae is expelled by uterine contractions. A better understanding of placentomal maturation, intra-partum, and immediate postpartum changes of the placentome should help develop strategies for the treatment and prevention of RFM. The present review proposes a model of placentome maturation and separation of fetal membranes in the dairy cow.

Cortisol Release in Mares Treated With Oxytocin Because of Retained Fetal Membranes

Mares give birth under high parasympathetic tone as indicated by increased heart rate variability (HRV) and atrioventricular blocks. These changes might be induced by oxytocin released at foaling. In this short communication, the cardiac (n = 4) and cortisol response (n = 3) of mares treated with oxytocin infusions because of fetal membrane retention are reported. A marked cortisol release occurred during oxytocin infusion in two mares but not in a third mare which was infused for 6 minutes only. Oxytocin-induced cortisol release was neither accompanied by an increase in heart rate nor a decrease in HRV, and heart rate even decreased during oxytocin infusions. Preliminary data indicate that cortisol release in oxytocin-treated mares is not a stress response. Treatment of retained membranes in mares with oxytocin does not induce cardiovascular side effects.

Risk Factors for Metritis and Its Effect on Productive and Reproductive Performance in Dairy Cattle and Buffaloes

The present study evaluated the risk factors for metritis and effects of metritis on productive and reproductive performance in cattle (crossbred and Zebu) and buffaloes. Milk production and reproduction data of crossbred (n = 2549 lactations), Zebu (n = 1609 lactations), and Murrah buffaloes (n = 1604 lactations), spread over 12 years, were utilized for the study. Overall incidence of metritis was 22.56, 10.32, and 9.66 %, in crossbred cattle, Zebu cattle, and Murrah buffaloes, respectively. Estimated odds ratio (OR) for risk factors of metritis in crossbred cattle were dystocia (OR = 5.39), abortion (OR = 3.64), dead calf (OR = 4.10), retention of fetal membrane (RFM) (OR = 106.90), low calf BW (OR = 1.41), and shorter gestation length (OR = 4.12). In Zebu cattle, dystocia (OR = 3.15), abortion (OR = 2.98), dead calf (OR = 3.62), RFM (OR = 49.33), high calf BW (OR = 2.31), and shorter gestation length (OR = 2.81) were significant risk factors for metritis. Odds of metritis in buffaloes increased significantly (P < 0.05) after dystocia (OR = 6.12), abortion (OR = 11.87), dead calf (OR = 4.37), RFM (OR = 125.42), shorter gestation length (OR = 6.57), calving during summer (OR = 1.92), and lower calf BW (OR = 2.31). Metritis negatively affected milk production in cattle (P < 0.05) but not in buffaloes. Although, metritis had an inconsistent effect on days to first insemination, service period, and number of services/conception, calving interval was consistently extended in affected animals. The study identified abnormal calving, particularly RFM as potential risk factor for metritis which subsequently prolonged calving interval in both cattle and buffaloes. Milk production was negatively affected by metritis in cattle but not in buffaloes.

Bovine Postpartum Metritis and its Therapeutics: A Review

Metritis is the inflammation of the uterus causing severe economic loss to the dairy farmers due to failure of conception at the appropriate time. Variety of microorganisms are responsible for causing metritis, among which Arcanobacterium pyogenes, coliforms and the Gram – negative anaerobes, Fusobacterium and Bacteroides species are frequently involved. Infections generally gain entry during calving and frequently associated with difficult birth (dystocia) and Retention of Fetal Membranes (RFM). Under normal condition the microorganisms are eliminated from the uterus during uterine involution by the normal Uterine Defense Mechanism (UDM). However, when the UDM is compromised due to various factors the clinical symptoms of metritis sets in and sometimes leading to the death of the animal. There is various therapeutics available to counteract metritis around the world with their own merits and demerits. This review presents an overall account of the postpartum metritis in dairy cows and its therapeutic measures.

Alterations in cortisol concentrations and expression of certain genes associated with neutrophil functions in cows developing retention of fetal membranes

Elevated cortisol concentrations have been reported to impair the functions and alter the life span of neutrophils in cows. The present study assessed the cortisol concentrations and expression of few genes related to longevity (Fas, Caspase 3, Bcl2) and margination (CD 62L, CD 18/11b) of neutrophils in relation to retention of fetal membranes (RFM) in dairy cows. Cortisol concentrations were significantly higher on the day of calving and day 2 postpartum in RFM cows than normal cows. Expression of CD 62L was significantly lower on the day of calving and day 2 postpartum in RFM cows than normal cows. While expression of Fas and GR was significantly lower on the day of calving, expression of Bcl2 was lower on day 7±2 pre-partum in RFM cows compared to normal cows. No significant difference was observed in the expression of CD 18/11b and Caspase 3 between RFM and normal cows. Cortisol concentration was negatively correlated with expression of GR, Fas, CD 62L, CD18/CD11b and Caspase 3, while positively correlated with immature neutrophil percentage and expression of Bcl2. It may be inferred that cortisol concentrations and expression of certain genes associated with lifespan and margination of neutrophils were altered in cows developing RFM compared to those expelled the fetal membranes normally.

Expression of oxytocin receptors is greatly reduced in the placenta of heavy mares with retained fetal membranes due to secondary uterine atony.

Fetal membrane retention can be a life-threatening condition and its incidence exceeds 50% in heavy draught mares. Although fetal membrane retention is commonly treated with repeated injections of oxytocin, based on the suggestion that it is caused mainly by secondary atony of the uterus, this treatment sometimes fails. This led us to ask if expression of oxytocin receptors differs in mares that retain fetal membranes due to secondary uterine atony. To determine whether expression of oxytocin receptors in equine placental tissues differs when heavy draught mares expel fetal membranes or retain them because of secondary uterine atony. Controlled study using archived tissues. Placental biopsies (containing the endometrium and allantochorion) were taken from 8 heavy draught mares during parturition. Four mares expelled fetal membranes shortly after foaling (control mares) and 4 mares retained them (expulsion time was >3 h from delivery). The 4 mares that retained fetal membranes had secondary atony of the uterus. The amount of oxytocin receptors was estimated by measuring the intensity of western blot bands. The presence and location of oxytocin receptors were determined by immunocytochemistry. Oxytocin receptor expression was nearly 50 times less intense in mares with placenta retention due to secondary atony of the uterus and immunocytochemical staining was barely visible. In the control mares, oxytocin receptors were found in both epithelial and endothelial cells of the placenta and staining was most intense where the endometrium contacts the allantochorion. Inadequate expression of oxytocin receptors may be a cause of uterine atony leading to fetal membrane retention.

Metabolic indicators for retention of fetal membranes in Zebu and crossbred dairy cattle

The present study assessed the peripartum metabolic profile of Karan Fries crossbred (Holstein Friesian × Tharparkar) and Zebu (Sahiwal) cows in relation to expulsion of fetal membranes. Peripheral blood concentrations of glucose, total protein, total cholesterol, blood urea nitrogen, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and β-hydroxy butyric acid (BHBA) were determined (from 30 days before and 2 days after calving) in cows that expelled fetal membranes normally (n = 13; 7 crossbred and 6 Zebu cows) and in cows that developed retention of fetal membranes (RFM; n = 13; 7 crossbred and 6 Zebu cows). In both breeds, the cows that developed RFM had significantly lower concentrations of cholesterol, glucose and total protein, while the concentrations of NEFA, BHBA and blood urea nitrogen were significantly (P &lt; 0.05) higher than those in cows that normally expelled the fetal membranes. In crossbred cows affected with RFM, the concentrations of NEFA increased significantly (P &lt; 0.05) from Day 14 prepartum to Day 2 postpartum and the concentrations of BHBA increased from Day 7 prepartum to Day 2 after calving. Similarly, in Zebu cows, NEFA and BHBA concentrations increased significantly (P &lt; 0.05) between Day 5 prepartum and Day 2 postpartum in RFM cows. Using receiver operator characteristic analysis, we observed that the concentrations of NEFA and BHBA before calving were highly related to the RFM. It may be inferred that monitoring the levels of NEFA and BHBA during prepartum period would help in identifying the cows at the risk of developing RFM.

Alteration in peripheral blood concentration of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines in cows developing retention of fetal membranes

Retention of fetal membranes (RFM) adversely affects the production and reproduction potential of the affected cows leading to huge economic loss. Physiological separation of fetal membranes is reported to be an inflammatory process. The present study compared the concentrations of certain pro inflammatory cytokines [Interleukin 1β (IL-1), Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Interleukin 8 (IL-8) and Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) between the cows that developed RFM (n=10) and the cows that expelled fetal membranes normally (n=10) to find out if they could serve as a predictive tool for RFM. Blood samples were collected from the cows from 30 days before expected parturition through day −21, day −14, day −7, day −5, day −3, day −1, on the day of parturition (day 0), day 1 postpartum and the pro-inflammatory cytokines were estimated in blood plasma by ELISA method. The IL-1β concentration was significantly lower (P<0.05) in cows that developed RFM compared to those that expelled fetal membranes normally from 3 days before calving till the day of calving. The plasma concentrations of IL-6 and IL-8 were also lower (P<0.05) in cows that developed RFM than those calved normally. On the day of calving, significantly (P<0.05) lower concentrations of TNF-α was observed in cows that developed RFM compared to those expelled fetal membranes normally. It may be inferred that the concentrations of IL-1, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α around parturition were altered in cows developing RFM compared to those expelled fetal membranes normally.

Antepartal insulin-like growth factor 1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2 concentrations are indicative of ketosis in dairy cows

A study involving a small number of cows found that the concentrations of insulin-like growth hormone 1 (IGF1) may be a useful predictor of metabolic disease. Further, IGF1 may provide also a pathophysiological link to metabolic diseases such as ketosis. The objective of the current study was to test whether the low antepartal total IGF1 or IGF1 binding protein (IGFBP) concentrations might predict ketosis under field conditions. Clinical examinations and blood sampling were performed antepartum (262–270 d after artificial insemination) on 377 pluriparous pregnant Holstein Friesian cows. The presence of postpartum diseases were recorded (ketosis, fatty liver, displacement of the abomasum, hypocalcemia, mastitis, retention of fetal membranes, and clinical metritis or endometritis), and the concentrations of IGF1, IGFBP2, IGFBP3, and nonesterified fatty acids were measured. Cows with postpartum clinical ketosis had lower IGF1 concentrations antepartum than healthy cows. The sensitivity of antepartal IGF1 as a marker for postpartum ketosis was 0.87, and the specificity was 0.43; a positive predictive value of 0.91 and a negative predictive value of 0.35 were calculated. The cows with ketosis and retained fetal membranes had lower IGFBP2 concentrations compared with the healthy cows. It can be speculated that lower IGF1 production in the liver during late pregnancy may increase growth hormone secretions and lipolysis, thereby increasing the risk of ketosis. Lower IGFBP2 concentrations may reflect the suppression of IGFBP2 levels through higher growth hormone secretion. In conclusion, compared with nonesterified fatty acids as a predictive parameter, IGF1 and IGFBP2 may represent earlier biomarkers of inadequate metabolic adaptation to the high energy demand required postpartum.

Usefulness of DIGE for the detection of protein profile in retained and released bovine placental tissues

IntroductionRegardless intensive research, the etiology and mechanisms of retention of fetal membranes in cows, still require elucidation. In our research approach, difference in gel electrophoresis (DIGE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) identification were used to obtain first results on protein profile of bovine placental membranes which were properly released or retained for more than 12 h after parturition. MethodsPlacentomes from 6 cows that released placenta and from 6 cows that retained fetal membranes were homogenized, fluorescence labeled and subjected to DIGE. ResultsSelected spots that significantly differed between retained and released placenta as well as spots with constant appearance were identified by MALDI. This allowed identification of the following proteins with high statistical reliability: Transforming growth factor beta 2 – high expression in maternal and fetal part of retained fetal membranes, Short transient receptor potential channel 5 –high expression in maternal part of retained and not retained fetal membranes, Rab GDP dissociation inhibitor beta – high expression in fetal part of retained and not retained fetal membranes, Proline dehydrogenase 2 – similar expression in all examined samples, Ras-related protein Rab-7b –high expression only in maternal part of not retained fetal membranes. DiscussionUp to now, these proteins have not been considered as possibly important molecules for the separation/retention of fetal membranes, but their biological roles may suggest it. Further studies are necessary to establish a full profile of bovine placental proteins and define target molecules that may be involved in separation/retention of fetal membranes.

Expression of short chain fatty acid receptors and pro-inflammatory cytokines in utero-placental tissues is altered in cows developing retention of fetal membranes

IntroductionRetention of fetal membranes (RFM) is an economically important condition in dairy cattle disturbing the health and production in affected animals. In spite of extensive research, pathogenesis for RFM and identification of a predictive marker for the condition still remains elusive. Since expulsion of fetal membranes in an inflammatory process, studying the expression of inflammatory molecules is expected to give an idea about the pathogenesis of RFM. MethodsExpression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, short chain fatty acid (SCFA) receptors and adhesion molecules was studied using qRT-PCR in the utero-placental tissues obtained from the cows that expelled fetal membranes normally (n = 12) and from the cows that developed RFM (n = 12). Concentrations of SCFAs were estimated in the utero-placental tissues using Gas Chromatography. ResultsThe concentration of butyrate in the utero-placental tissue extract was 3–4 times lower, and GPR41 and GPR43 mRNA expression was 7.7–10.0 and 3.4–4.4 folds lower (p < 0.05) in cows that developed RFM compared to those that expelled the fetal membranes normally. The expression of IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, ICAM and PECAM was higher (p < 0.05) in the cows that normally expelled the fetal membranes compared to those that developed RFM. DiscussionSince a clear association of butyrate levels, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, adhesion molecules and SCFAs receptors was observed with expulsion of fetal membranes, modulating the levels of these molecules prior to parturition might help in reducing the incidence of RFM in cows. ConclusionInflammatory response is essential for normal expulsion of fetal membranes and that inadequate or altered expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, adhesion molecules and SCFA receptors is associated with RFM in cows.

Neospora caninum versus Brucella spp. exposure among dairy cattle in Ethiopia: a case control study.

This case-control study aimed at assessing the relative association of Neospora caninum and Brucella species exposure with reproductive disorders. The study was carried out between October 2011 and June 2012 on 731 dairy cows sampled from 150 dairy farms in selected 17 conurbations of Ethiopia. Two hundred sixty-six of the cows were categorized as cases based on their history of abortion or stillbirth while the remaining 465 were controls. The presence of antibody to N. caninum was screened using indirect ELISA, while Brucella spp. exposure was assayed serially using Rose Bengal Plate Test and Complement Fixation Test. Exposure to N. caninum was more frequently observed among cases (23.8%) than controls (12.7%), while no significant difference (p > 0.05) was noted for Brucella exposure between the two groups. Moreover, the proportion of cows with disorders like retention of fetal membrane, endometritis and increased inter-calving period were significantly higher (p < 0.05) among Neospora seropositive cows. In conclusion, the finding discloses the strong association of N. caninum with reproductive disorders compared to Brucella spp. exposure. However, neither N. caninum nor Brucella spp. could explain the majority (73.2%) of the reported abortions and stillbirths in cattle. Hence, this observation underscores the need for more intensive investigation on the identification of causes of the aforementioned disorders in dairy cattle of Ethiopia.

Denaverine hydrochloride and carbetocin increased welfare during and after parturition and enhanced subsequent fertility in cattle

The objectives of the current study were to investigate the influence of denaverine hydrochloride and carbetocin on softening and dilatation of the birth canal, the need for assistance during parturition, calf mortality, retention of fetal membranes, endometritis, and subsequent fertility. Altogether 200 animals (100 cows and 100 heifers) of the Simmental breed were divided into 2 groups: treatment (n=100) and control (n=100). Animals in the treatment group received denaverine hydrochloride and carbetocin (a maximum of twice for each, depending on the progression of labor) during delivery over a maximum of 4 waiting periods (30min each), whereas control animals experienced the same waiting periods but received no treatment. The treatment protocol had a positive influence on the ease of calving and postpartum reproductive health. The treatment increased the number of animals with the birth canal dilated by more than 25cm, and halved the need for any assistance at parturition. In addition, treatment decreased the occurrence of difficult calving, the need for episiotomy, the appearance of birth canal lesions, and clinical endometritis. The treatment protocol had an effect throughout the entire puerperal period, as treated animals conceived with fewer artificial inseminations (1.3 vs. 1.6 artificial inseminations/pregnancy) and sooner (67 vs. 78d open) compared with control animals. Denaverine hydrochloride and carbetocin administered in combination during parturition affected the progression and ease of calving, and thus the welfare of cows in labor and subsequently. However, further studies are needed to confirm the findings and to establish best practices.

An insight into the Recent Advances on the Physiology and Treatment of Retention of Fetal Membranes in Cattle

An insight into the Recent Advances on the Physiology and Treatment of Retention of Fetal Membranes in Cattle

Combined use of Ovsynch and progesterone supplementation after artificial insemination in dairy cattle

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different Ovsynch protocols combined with progesterone (P4) supplementation after artificial insemination (AI) of Holstein-Friesian cows. Cows were randomly synchronized at 52 to 63 d after parturition with either the classical Ovsynch protocol (GnRH on d 0, PGF2α on d 7, GnRH 48h after PGF2α) or with a modified Ovsynch protocol (second GnRH 60h after PGF2α). On d 4 after timed AI (TAI), the cows were blocked by parity and randomly divided into 2 groups. Half of the cows were supplemented with P4 (P4+) by applying a P4-releasing intravaginal device intravaginally for 14 d, whereas the other half remained untreated (P4−). In 50% of randomly chosen cows, plasma P4 was measured on d 4, 5, and 18 after TAI. Sonographic pregnancy diagnosis was performed on d 33 after TAI in a total of 398 cows. Health status and body condition score (BCS) of all cows were examined at several stages of the study. Cows in the modified Ovsynch protocol tended to have higher P4 values on d 4 after TAI than cows in the classical Ovsynch protocol (2.1±0.2 vs. 1.6±0.2ng/mL), but no difference in pregnancy per AI (P/AI) was observed between the 2 Ovsynch protocols (38.4% vs. 44.1%). Independent of the Ovsynch protocols, P4+ cows tended to have higher P/AI compared with P4− cows (44.4% vs. 38.1%). The retention of fetal membranes and BCS at the time of insemination affected P/AI. Moreover, an interaction between BCS at the time of insemination and P4 supplementation was apparent; that is, the difference in P/AI between P4+ and P4− cows was significant in cows with BCS ≥3.25. Progesterone-supplemented cows showed higher P4 values on d 5 (4.9±0.2 vs. 2.6±0.2) and d 18 (7.8±0.2 vs. 6.3±0.2) after TAI, respectively. In conclusion, the elongation of the time interval between the injections of PGF2α and the second GnRH from 48 to 60h had no effect on P/AI. Progesterone supplementation after insemination improved the P/AI of the Ovsynch protocols, but this effect was more apparent in cows with BCS ≥3.25.

Induction of parturition in Iraqi cows by using ergometrine, dexamethasone and estrumate

The study was conducted on 35 pregnant Iraqi cows at gestation period ranged from 260-265 days depending on their date of services. This study was performed in two regions from Baghdad province (Al-Thahab Al-Abiad and Al-Nahrawan villages) from 2009-2011, there ages ranged from 3-6 years and were divided randomly into three groups according to the type of treatment. 1st group (11 cows) were injected with 750 μg (3 ml) of estrumate intramuscular (IM) in single dose .The 2nd group (13 cows) injected with 40 mg of dexamethasone (IM) in one dose only. The 3rd group (11 cows) injected with 500μg of ergometrine (IM). The results revealed that the responsive cows were 7 (63.6%), 3 (100%) and 8 (72.7%) in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd groups respectively, and their result were recorded superior significant (P&lt;0.01) for group 2 compared with group 1 and 3, also the results recorded significant (P&lt;0.01) in group 2 compared with another groups (1, 3) related with duration from injection of treatment to induction of calving. Retention of fetal membranes was recorded 28.5% in all animals and the occurrence of dystocia (for many causes) was 28.6%, while the viability of calves was 89.6% (alive calves) and 10.4% of dead calves.We concluded that using of dexamethasone, estrumate and ergometrine was safe and effective for induction of parturition in Iraqi cows

TRPV6 and Calbindin-D9k-expression and localization in the bovine uterus and placenta during pregnancy

BackgroundTransient receptor potential channel type 6 (TRPV6) and Calbindin-D9k (CaBP-9k) are involved in the active calcium (Ca2+) transport mechanism in many tissues including placenta and uterus, suggesting a role in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Moreover, TRPV6 and CaBP-9k seem to support the materno-fetal Ca2+ transport that is crucial for fetal Ca2+ homeostasis, bone growth and development. However, it is unknown if these proteins are also involved in the aetiology of pathologies associated with parturition in cows, such as retained fetal membranes (RFM). The aim of the current study was to create an expression profile of uterine and placentomal TRPV6 and CaBP-9k mRNAs and proteins during pregnancy and postpartum in cows with and without fetal membrane release.MethodsUteri and placentomes of 27 cows in different stages of pregnancy and placentomes of cows with and without RFM were collected. Protein and mRNA expression of TRPV6 and CaBP-9k was investigated by real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry and Western blot.ResultsIn the uterine endometrium, highest TRPV6 and CaBP-9k expression was found in the last trimester of pregnancy, with a particular increase of protein in the glandular epithelium. In the placentomes, a gradual increase in TRPV6 mRNA was detectable towards parturition, while protein expression did not change significantly. Placentomal CaBP-9k expression did not change significantly throughout pregnancy but immunohistochemistry revealed an increase in staining intensity in the maternal crypt epithelium. Immunohistochemical, stronger placental CaBP-9k signals were seen in animals with RFM compared to animals with an undisturbed fetal membrane release, while protein levels, measured by Western blot analyses did not change significantly.ConclusionsThe results of the present study demonstrate a dynamic expression of TRPV6 and CaBP-9k during pregnancy in the bovine uterine endometrium and placentomes, suggesting a functional role for these proteins in Ca2+ metabolism during pregnancy. The temporal and spatial expression patterns indicate that TRPV6 and CaBP-9k may be involved in materno-fetal Ca2+ transport, mainly through an interplacentomal transport, and that both proteins may participate in physiological processes that are crucial for fetal and placental development. However, neither TRPV6 nor CaBP-9k seem to be causative in the retention of fetal membranes.

Post Partum Pyometra in Iraqi Goats: Clinical &amp; Therapeutical Study

Iraqi goats (27) were used in this study .They were diagnosed clinically as cases of postpartum open pyometra (external &amp;vaginal examination ) .This study was performed in vet med /Baghdad university and two regions from Baghdad province ,their age 2-5years from 2008-2011. They were divided randomly into three groups (9goats of each group) .The 1st group treated with 250 μg of estrumate I/M injected and 2gm (10ml) oxytetracycline 20% intrauterine (I.U).The 2nd group treated with estrumate in same dose and 1tube of Metricure I.U and the 3rd group treated with estrumate and 25ml of0.5% loguls iodine . Results showed that the number of goats responded were 77.7%, 66.6%and 88.8% in the 1st ,2nd and 3rd group respectively . The mean of the days open were 43.12±9.16,148.31±8.24 and 136.42±8.51 in the 1st ,2nd and 3rd group ,1st and 2nd group were significant P&lt;0.01 with 3rd group (decreases) .The number of newly born kids were 32 kids (17male ,15female ). The alive were 27(84.3%) and dead 5(5.7%) .The retention of fetal membrane recorded 4/21 (19.04). In conclusion that the PGF2α (estrumate) has an effect role in the treatment of pyometra in goats and its effect increasing when combined with loguls iodine or oxytetracycline.

Retained Fetal Membranes in Heavy Draft Mares Associated with Histological Abnormalities

Retention of fetal membranes is one of the most common life-threatening peripartum problems; however, its etiology is still unknown. Draft mares are more likely to retain fetal membranes than other breeds of mares. Because a strong connection between the fetal membranes and the endometrium has been observed in cases of retention, we studied the changes in the endometrium and the allantochorion of heavy draft mares with this condition. Tissue samples were taken from 90 mares that retained the fetal membranes and from 21 that did not. Retained fetal membranes were associated with adhesion of the allantochorion to the endometrium in 88% of the mares; this adhesion depended on the following factors: occurrence of fibrosis both in the lamina propria of the allantochorial villi and in the allantochorial stromal connective tissue, overdevelopment of the allantochorial stromal connective tissue, oversized allantochorial epithelial cells, and sparser and less-branched allantochorial villi.

Expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-14 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP)-2 during bovine placentation and at term with or without placental retention

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and counteracting tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are balancing extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and degradation. The latter is believed to be an important aspect for the detachment of fetal membranes postpartum when loosening the feto-maternal connection which is a prerequisite to avoid placental retention a common disease in cows leading to considerable economic loss. Membrane-type (MT) MMPs have been suggested as potential activators controlling ECM remodelling. In particular, MT1-MMP (MMP-14) is able to degrade ECM substrates and activate MMP-2 through binding TIMP-2 at the cell surface. Since the connection between the trophoblast and the maternal caruncular epithelium is supported by integrin receptors bound to ECM, we hypothesize that impaired modulation of the ECM by TIMPs/MMPs participates in the aetiology of bovine retained fetal membranes. To analyse this involvement, placentomes were collected from cows after term parturition and timely release of fetal membranes (n = 4) and cows with retained fetal membranes after various treatments for the induction of parturition using progesterone antagonist (aglepristone), PGF2α analogue, glucocorticoid, and after elective caesarean sections (each group n = 3). The expression of MMP-14, MMP-2 and of TIMP-2 was examined by real-time-PCR, immunohistochemistry, Western blot and zymography. The relative mRNA expression levels of MMP-14 remained unchanged, while the expression levels of TIMP-2 and MMP-2 partly increased in animals with induced parturition and retention of fetal membranes compared to animals without placental retention. MMP-14 protein was expressed in cells of the uninucleated trophoblast, the fetal mesenchyme and maternal stroma. TIMP-2 was present exclusively in trophoblast giant cells, while MMP-2 could be detected in uninucleated trophoblast cells and the fetal mesenchyme. The presence of the activated enzyme was confirmed by zymography. In conclusion, MMP-14, MMP-2 and TIMP-2 are co-localized in the fetal compartment and therefore could influence the timely release of fetal membranes in cattle.