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Published on: July 8, 2020
Premature ovulations in superovulated cattle
H Callesen1, T Greve, P Hyttel
1Department of Animal Reproduction Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University 13 Bülowsvej, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
Theriogenology
|August 1, 1987
Summary
Premature ovulations occurred in 13% of superovulated cattle donors, leading to poor oocyte and embryo quality. These findings highlight issues with gonadotrophin preparations in cattle reproduction.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Veterinary science
- Animal reproduction
Background:
- Superovulation is a common practice in cattle for enhanced oocyte retrieval.
- Premature ovulation can negatively impact oocyte and embryo quality.
- Hormonal imbalances and deviations in estrus behavior are associated with reproductive inefficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and consequences of premature ovulations in superovulated cattle.
- To analyze the impact of premature ovulation on oocyte quality and subsequent embryo development.
- To identify hormonal and behavioral patterns associated with premature ovulation in cattle donors.
Main Methods:
- Monitoring hormone profiles (progesterone, estradiol-17beta, LH) in superovulated cattle.
- Observing estrus behavior and assessing oocyte meiosis.
- Quantifying the incidence of premature ovulations in a cohort of cattle donors.
Main Results:
- Premature ovulations were observed in 13% (17/133) of stimulated cattle donors.
- Donors with premature ovulations showed altered periovulatory hormone profiles and estrus behavior.
- Deviations in follicular steroidogenesis and oocyte meiosis were noted in affected donors.
Conclusions:
- Superovulated cattle experiencing premature ovulations are poor oocyte donors.
- These animals are also considered inferior embryo donors, impacting reproductive success.
- Gonadotrophin preparations may contribute to premature ovulations through luteinizing hormone content.
