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Fixed-time deep uterine insemination in PGF2α-synchronized goats
A N Al Yacoub1, M Gauly, B Sohnrey
1Department of Animal Science, Georg-August-University, Goettingen, Germany.
Theriogenology
|August 13, 2011
Summary
Fixed-time insemination in goats using prostaglandin F(2α) and ovulation induction with GnRH or hCG shows promise but is hampered by corpus luteum insufficiency. Further research is needed to overcome this limitation for effective goat breeding management.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology and endocrinology in domestic animals.
- Veterinary obstetrics and gynecology.
- Animal breeding and genetics.
Background:
- Fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocols aim to improve reproductive efficiency in goats.
- Prostaglandin F(2α) synchronization is commonly used to manage estrous cycles.
- Ovulation induction with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is employed in FTAI protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize FTAI in goats by synchronizing ovulations using prostaglandin F(2α).
- To compare the efficacy of GnRH versus hCG for ovulation induction in synchronized goats.
- To reduce short cycles and corpus luteum insufficiency by using longer-acting hCG.
Main Methods:
- Sixty goats were synchronized with prostaglandin F(2α).
- Groups received either GnRH or hCG for ovulation induction, with a control group inseminated after detected estrus.
- Ovulation, estrus duration, corpus luteum function (serum progesterone), pregnancy, and kidding rates were monitored.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in ovulation rates among groups.
- Significantly higher incidence of corpus luteum insufficiency in GnRH- and hCG-treated groups compared to controls (40% and 35% vs. 5%).
- Pregnancy and kidding rates were lower in GnRH and hCG groups, with the control group showing the highest rates (60%).
Conclusions:
- FTAI protocols using prostaglandin F(2α) and ovulation induction agents are potentially effective but challenged by high rates of corpus luteum insufficiency.
- Substituting GnRH with hCG did not successfully reduce corpus luteum insufficiency or improve reproductive outcomes.
- Inseminating prostaglandin-synchronized goats 16-18 hours after detected estrus remains advisable until corpus luteum insufficiency can be managed.
