GnRH agonists: Updating fixed-time artificial insemination protocols in sows.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Science
• Animal Reproduction

Background:

• Fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocols are crucial for enhancing genetic improvement and production efficiency in swine reproduction.
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists offer improved control over follicular development, timing, and ovulation quality, making them valuable tools in FTAI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the physiology of follicular development and ovulation in sows.
• To discuss hormonal alternatives for ovulation induction, including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), porcine luteinizing hormone (LH), and GnRH agonists.
• To describe ovulation induction failures associated with GnRH agonists.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of swine reproductive physiology.
• Analysis of hormonal treatments for ovulation induction.
• Discussion of current FTAI protocols utilizing GnRH agonists.

Main Results:

• GnRH agonists provide effective control over follicular dynamics and ovulation timing in sows.
• Ovulation induction failures with GnRH agonists have been documented and are discussed.
• Current FTAI protocols employing GnRH agonists demonstrate efficiency and success.

Conclusions:

• FTAI protocols using GnRH agonists are efficient and successful reproductive strategies for pig farms.
• Enhanced understanding of the endocrine system regulating swine reproduction supports these protocols.
• Increased availability of GnRH agonists facilitates more efficient swine reproductive programs.