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Effect of prenatal androgenization on lamb performance, carcass composition and reproductive function
K C DeHaan1, L L Berger, D J Kesler
1Dept. of Anim. Sci. University of Illinois, Urbana 61801.
Journal of Animal Science
|December 1, 1987
Summary
Prenatal exposure to testosterone propionate in ewes resulted in androgenized ewes (TE) with altered growth, carcass composition, and reproductive traits. These findings highlight the significant impact of in-utero androgen exposure on livestock development.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Maternal hormonal environment significantly influences fetal development and subsequent offspring characteristics.
- Androgens are critical for male sexual differentiation and can impact growth and metabolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of prenatal androgen exposure on ewe offspring growth, carcass quality, and reproductive cyclicity.
- To determine if maternal testosterone administration during gestation alters lamb development.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant crossbred ewes were implanted with testosterone propionate (TP) from day 40 to 60 of gestation.
- Offspring (androgenized ewes - TE, and control ewes - CE) were evaluated for birth weight, growth rates, feed efficiency, carcass traits, and reproductive cyclicity.
Main Results:
- Androgenized ewes (TE) exhibited lower birth weights but increased average daily gain and feed efficiency compared to controls (CE).
- TE had reduced backfat, higher liver weight relative to carcass weight, and altered reproductive tract morphology.
- TE did not display regular estrous cycles, unlike control ewes.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal androgenization in ewes leads to significant alterations in growth, carcass leanness, and reproductive function.
- Maternal testosterone exposure during critical gestation periods has lasting effects on female offspring phenotype.