Microencapsulated Linseed Oil Supplementation Modifies Lipid Profile and Improves Luteal Function in Dairy Sheep

Polyunsaturated fatty acids omega 3 (PUFA-ω3) have been shown to modulate reproductive events such as ovarian follicular and luteal development, steroid and prostaglandin synthesis, and oocyte/embryo quality in different species. These effects could be exploited to support pregnancy and avoid early embryo losses that could occur in dairy sheep breeding. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplementation of microencapsulated/by-passed linseed oil (LO) on ovarian function, embryo implantation rates, and lipid profiles of Sarda ewes during their early pregnancy. Our results demonstrated that the intake of microencapsulated LO at a level of 4.0% of fresh matter increased the plasmatic concentrations of PUFASω3 (p < 0.01) and progesterone (p < 0.05), as well as cholesterol (p < 0.01), triglyceride (p < 0.001), high-density lipoprotein (p < 0.001), and non-esterified fatty acids (p < 0.05). The percentage of ewes in estrus, ovulation rate per mated ewe, number of embryos per ewe, and pregnancy rates were similar between treated and control groups. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of by-pass LO during the preimplantation period increased PUFAS-ω3 distribution at systemic and local levels. Also, this supplementation modified the ewe's lipid profile and improved luteal function with a possible positive effect on embryo-maternal crosstalk and embryo implantation rate during and after the maternal recognition of pregnancy.