Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 6, 2026

09:41
Measuring the Rate of Lipolysis in Ex Vivo Murine Adipose Tissue and Primary Preadipocytes Differentiated In Vitro
Published on: March 17, 2023
Serum leptin concentrations in Lipizzan fillies
N Cebulj-Kadunc1, M Kosec, V Cestnik
1Institute of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia. nina.cebulj@vf.uni-lj.si
Reproduction in Domestic Animals = Zuchthygiene
|April 10, 2008
Summary
Seasonal changes in leptin concentrations were observed in Lipizzan fillies. Older fillies and those with continuous cyclicity showed higher leptin levels, particularly during summer.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive endocrinology
- Animal physiology
Background:
- Leptin plays a crucial role in regulating energy balance and reproductive functions.
- Understanding seasonal variations in leptin is important for equine reproductive management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate seasonal fluctuations in serum leptin concentrations in Lipizzan fillies.
- To correlate leptin levels with age and different patterns of ovarian activity.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected monthly from 107 Lipizzan fillies (aged 1-4 years) over a full year.
- Serum leptin and progesterone concentrations were measured and analyzed based on age groups and ovarian cyclicity patterns.
Main Results:
- Leptin concentrations were significantly higher in 3- and 4-year-old fillies compared to younger ones.
- Leptin levels peaked in August (summer) and declined in autumn in older fillies.
- Fillies with continuous cyclicity exhibited the highest leptin levels, while those with seasonal cyclicity had the lowest.
Conclusions:
- Age and ovarian activity patterns significantly influence seasonal leptin variations in Lipizzan fillies.
- These findings contribute to understanding the interplay between leptin, age, and reproductive seasonality in horses.
