Effect of time and dose of recombinant follicle stimulating hormone agonist on the superovulatory response of sheep

Heloisa M. Rutigliano, Betty M. Adams, Albina Jablonka-Shariff, Irving Boime, Thomas E. Adams

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the superovulatory potential of a single-chain analog of human FSH (Fcα) when administered to ewes either 3days before, or coincident with, simulated luteolysis (pessary removal [PR]). A total of 40 animals were randomly assigned to receive Fcα at doses of 0.62, 1.25, or 2.5IU/kg of body weight (bwt) 3days before PR or 0.31, 0.62, 1.25, or 2.5IU/kg of bwt at PR. Control ewes received protein without FSH activity. Blood samples were collected during the periovulatory period and ovarian tissue was collected 11days after PR. Ovulation rate did not differ from the control group in ewes receiving the smallest doses of Fcα (0.31 and 0.62IU/kg). However, a significant superovulatory response was noted in sheep receiving Fcα at doses of 1.25 and 2.5IU/kg and this response was comparable in animals receiving the largest dose levels of Fcα at, or 3days before, PR. The interval between PR and the LH surge was significantly extended and the LH surges were less synchronous in animals receiving Fcα at PR when compared with animals receiving the potent FSH agonist 3days before PR. Taken together, these data indicate that the human single-chain gonadotropin with FSH activity promotes superovulation in ewe lambs in the breeding season. A single injection of the recombinant gonadotropin 3days before luteolysis synchronizes the LH surge. The use of the single-chain analog of FSH in assisted reproduction for domestic animals is likely to be of practical significance as an alternative to conventional gonadotropins in superovulation protocols in livestock species.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)455-460
Number of pages6
JournalTheriogenology
Volume82
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2014

Keywords

  • Assisted reproductive technologies
  • Gonadotropin
  • Multiple ovulation
  • Ovine
  • Single-chain gonadotropin

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