Oestrous cycle synchronization protocols in rats using cloprostenol and progesterone injections

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• Oestrous synchronization is crucial for efficient animal breeding programs.
• Hormonal interventions are commonly used to control reproductive cycles in research animals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of combined cloprostenol and progesterone injections for oestrous synchronization in female rats.
• To determine the impact of specific hormonal regimens on subsequent reproductive outcomes and conception rates.

Main Methods:

• Female rats were divided into groups receiving different hormonal treatments: cloprostenol (Cl), progesterone (Pg), or combinations.
• Reproductive behaviour and conception efficiency were monitored following the hormonal injections.

Main Results:

• The Cl+Pg+Cl treatment group exhibited a 100% conception efficiency within 24 hours after the final Cl injection.
• This hormonal protocol led to a rapid and synchronized initiation of pregnancy in the treated female rats.

Conclusions:

• Combined cloprostenol and progesterone injections represent a highly effective method for oestrous synchronization in female rats.
• The tested protocol significantly enhances reproductive efficiency by enabling rapid, synchronized conception.