Pub Date : 2025-11-05DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106980
Wanhong Li, Haiyu Ma, Peidi Zhao, Xiuxiu Weng
Castration, as a veterinary procedure, can enhance carcass quality, significantly influencing the development of male animals. This study aimed to assess the effect of castration on growth performance and pineal gland function in Hu sheep lambs. Six healthy male Hu sheep were selected and randomly assigned to two groups. Three lambs underwent castration at 3 days of age (CAS), whereas the control group (CK) remained uncastrated. All lambs were housed indoors. Results indicated that the CAS group's body weight was significantly lower than that of the CK group (p < 0.05). However, the feed conversion ratio was significantly higher in the CAS group than in the CK group (p < 0.05). Serum testosterone, growth hormone and melatonin levels in the CK group were significantly elevated compared with those in the CAS group (p < 0.05). Pineal glands were harvested for RNA sequencing, which revealed 537 differentially expressed genes in the CAS group compared with CK, comprising 174 upregulated and 363 downregulated genes. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis highlighted significant enrichment in the neural ligand–receptor interactions, and autoimmune thyroid disease. The results demonstrated that castration could significantly influence the growth and development of lambs and affect the function of the pineal gland.
{"title":"Effects of castration on growth performance and pineal gland function of Hu sheep","authors":"Wanhong Li, Haiyu Ma, Peidi Zhao, Xiuxiu Weng","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106980","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106980","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Castration, as a veterinary procedure, can enhance carcass quality, significantly influencing the development of male animals. This study aimed to assess the effect of castration on growth performance and pineal gland function in Hu sheep lambs. Six healthy male <em>Hu</em> sheep were selected and randomly assigned to two groups. Three lambs underwent castration at 3 days of age (CAS), whereas the control group (CK) remained uncastrated. All lambs were housed indoors. Results indicated that the CAS group's body weight was significantly lower than that of the CK group (<em>p</em> < 0.05). However, the feed conversion ratio was significantly higher in the CAS group than in the CK group (<em>p</em> < 0.05). Serum testosterone, growth hormone and melatonin levels in the CK group were significantly elevated compared with those in the CAS group (<em>p</em> < 0.05). Pineal glands were harvested for RNA sequencing, which revealed 537 differentially expressed genes in the CAS group compared with CK, comprising 174 upregulated and 363 downregulated genes. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis highlighted significant enrichment in the neural ligand–receptor interactions, and autoimmune thyroid disease. The results demonstrated that castration could significantly influence the growth and development of lambs and affect the function of the pineal gland.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 106980"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-11-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145620489","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study assessed the contraceptive effects of two vaccines formulated with recombinant gonadotropin-releasing hormone antigen (rGnRH antigen) conjugated with the heat-labile enterotoxin B subunit (LTB) protein from Escherichia coli in male pigs. Thirty-two piglets were assigned to four groups: Surg, surgically castrated at 3 days old; Vvx, non-castrated and vaccinated with a commercial vaccine (Vivax®) at 101 and 135 days old; rGnRH-400 and rGnRH-300, non-castrated and vaccinated at 101 and 135 days old with recombinant vaccines containing 400 µg or 300 µg rGnRH/LTB per dose, respectively. Growth performance was not affected by treatment (p ≥ 0.25). At 155 and 165 days old, piglets in the rGnRH-400 and rGnRH-300 groups exhibited anti-GnRH/LTB antibody levels were similar to those in the Vvx group (p > 0.05) or higher (p < 0.05) than those in the Vvx group. However, rGnRH-400 and rGnRH-300 piglets showed higher testosterone concentrations at 155 and 165 days old and greater testicular volumes at 165 days old than Vvx piglets (p < 0.05). Severe testicular lesions (scores 3 and 4) were more frequent in the Vvx group, while those in the rGnRH-400 group were mainly scored as 3, and only mild lesions (scores 1 and 2) were observed in the rGnRH-300 group. Overall, both recombinant vaccines elicited strong anti-GnRH/LTB antibody levels; however, they did not produce the same degree of testicular alterations or testosterone reduction as the commercial vaccine. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the contraceptive potential of these recombinant formulations, particularly the 400 µg rGnRH/LTB vaccine.
{"title":"Immunogenicity of recombinant gonadotropin-releasing hormone contraceptive vaccines in male pigs","authors":"Jean Vitor Bondavalli , Monike Willemin Quirino , Neida Conrad , Vanessa Peripolli , Elizabeth Schwegler , Matheus Folgearini Silveira , Yuso Tutida , Bernardo Garziera Gasperin , Fábio Pereira Leivas Leite , Ivan Bianchi , Fabiana Moreira","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106979","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106979","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study assessed the contraceptive effects of two vaccines formulated with recombinant gonadotropin-releasing hormone antigen (rGnRH antigen) conjugated with the heat-labile enterotoxin B subunit (LTB) protein from <em>Escherichia coli</em> in male pigs. Thirty-two piglets were assigned to four groups: Surg, surgically castrated at 3 days old; Vvx, non-castrated and vaccinated with a commercial vaccine (Vivax®) at 101 and 135 days old; rGnRH-400 and rGnRH-300, non-castrated and vaccinated at 101 and 135 days old with recombinant vaccines containing 400 µg or 300 µg rGnRH/LTB per dose, respectively. Growth performance was not affected by treatment (<em>p</em> ≥ 0.25). At 155 and 165 days old, piglets in the rGnRH-400 and rGnRH-300 groups exhibited anti-GnRH/LTB antibody levels were similar to those in the Vvx group (<em>p</em> > 0.05) or higher (<em>p <</em> 0.05) than those in the Vvx group. However, rGnRH-400 and rGnRH-300 piglets showed higher testosterone concentrations at 155 and 165 days old and greater testicular volumes at 165 days old than Vvx piglets (<em>p</em> < 0.05). Severe testicular lesions (scores 3 and 4) were more frequent in the Vvx group, while those in the rGnRH-400 group were mainly scored as 3, and only mild lesions (scores 1 and 2) were observed in the rGnRH-300 group. Overall, both recombinant vaccines elicited strong anti-GnRH/LTB antibody levels; however, they did not produce the same degree of testicular alterations or testosterone reduction as the commercial vaccine. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the contraceptive potential of these recombinant formulations, particularly the 400 µg rGnRH/LTB vaccine.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 106979"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145462583","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-31DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106978
Hongxuan Ye , Junyi Wu , Xuexun Feng , Qiling Chen , Zihao Huang , Bin Su , Songfeng Yang , Lili Wang , Hefeng Luo , Chengquan Tan
Iron is an essential nutrient for maternal health and fetal development. 65 multiparous sows were used to determine the effects of maternal protein-bound iron (P-Iron) supplementation on reproductive performance of sows and growth of their offspring. Sows received either the farm’s control diet (total iron 180 mg/kg, including 80 mg/kg as ferrous sulfate; n = 32) or the same diet plus 120 mg Fe/kg as protein-bound iron (P-Iron; n = 33) from gestation day 85 to lactation day 21. The results showed that, relative to the control (CON), sows in the P-Iron group had higher hemoglobin at gestation day 110 and at farrowing (both P < 0.05), and the P-Iron group exhibited improved antioxidant status, with lower serum malondialdehyde at farrowing (P < 0.01), higher total antioxidant capacity (P < 0.05), and a trend toward higher glutathione (P = 0.08). Newborn piglets in the P-Iron group had higher hemoglobin concentration (P < 0.01). Reproductive performance in the P-Iron group showed a downward trend in mummified fetuses (P = 0.07). During lactation, colostrum and ordinary milk iron concentrations were higher in the P-Iron group than in CON (P < 0.05). At weaning, piglets from the P-Iron group had higher serum iron and iron saturation (both P < 0.05) and higher IgA levels (P < 0.05). Litters in the P-Iron group also had greater weaning litter weights (P < 0.05), with a trend toward improved survival (P = 0.09).Overall, dietary supplementation with 120 mg/kg P-Iron enhanced iron transfer from sows to offspring, resulting in increased hemoglobin levels in sows and newborn piglets, improved oxidative stress status, elevated iron and IgA concentration in serum, and ultimately higher litter weaning and pre-weaning survival rate.
{"title":"Effects of protein-bound iron supplementation on reproductive performance of sows and growth performance of piglets","authors":"Hongxuan Ye , Junyi Wu , Xuexun Feng , Qiling Chen , Zihao Huang , Bin Su , Songfeng Yang , Lili Wang , Hefeng Luo , Chengquan Tan","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106978","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106978","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Iron is an essential nutrient for maternal health and fetal development. 65 multiparous sows were used to determine the effects of maternal protein-bound iron (P-Iron) supplementation on reproductive performance of sows and growth of their offspring. Sows received either the farm’s control diet (total iron 180 mg/kg, including 80 mg/kg as ferrous sulfate; n = 32) or the same diet plus 120 mg Fe/kg as protein-bound iron (P-Iron; n = 33) from gestation day 85 to lactation day 21. The results showed that, relative to the control (CON), sows in the P-Iron group had higher hemoglobin at gestation day 110 and at farrowing (both <em>P</em> < 0.05), and the P-Iron group exhibited improved antioxidant status, with lower serum malondialdehyde at farrowing (<em>P</em> < 0.01), higher total antioxidant capacity (<em>P</em> < 0.05), and a trend toward higher glutathione (<em>P</em> = 0.08). Newborn piglets in the P-Iron group had higher hemoglobin concentration (<em>P</em> < 0.01). Reproductive performance in the P-Iron group showed a downward trend in mummified fetuses (<em>P</em> = 0.07). During lactation, colostrum and ordinary milk iron concentrations were higher in the P-Iron group than in CON (<em>P</em> < 0.05). At weaning, piglets from the P-Iron group had higher serum iron and iron saturation (both <em>P</em> < 0.05) and higher IgA levels (<em>P</em> < 0.05). Litters in the P-Iron group also had greater weaning litter weights (<em>P</em> < 0.05), with a trend toward improved survival (<em>P</em> = 0.09).Overall, dietary supplementation with 120 mg/kg P-Iron enhanced iron transfer from sows to offspring, resulting in increased hemoglobin levels in sows and newborn piglets, improved oxidative stress status, elevated iron and IgA concentration in serum, and ultimately higher litter weaning and pre-weaning survival rate.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 106978"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-10-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145462584","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-17DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106977
Arthur Martelli , Monike Willemin Quirino , Michele Dezordi Franz , Vanessa Peripolli , Fabiana Moreira , Bernardo Garziera Gasperin , Rafael da Rosa Ulguim , Vilceu Bordignon , Thomaz Lucia Jr , Ivan Bianchi
This study evaluated the efficiency of protocols using two different dosages of eCG and hCG administered during lactation to delay post-weaning estrus expression in sows. Sixty-two sows were selected on D-14 (D0 = weaning) and allocated to one of three treatments: Control (n = 20; saline administration on D-7 and D-4); 500 IU (n = 21; 500 IU eCG on D-7 and 500 IU hCG on D-4); and 1000 IU (n = 21; 1000 IU eCG on D-7 and 1000 IU hCG on D-4). Estrus detection was performed twice daily after weaning, and blood samples were collected on D-7, D-1, D+6, and D+13. On D+15, the sows were slaughtered for ovarian evaluation. The percentage of sows detected in estrus post-weaning was greater in the Control group (90.0%) compared to the 500 IU (23.8%) and 1000 IU (9.5%) groups (P < 0.01). The proportion of sows with corpus hemorrhagicum and/or corpus luteum and the total number of corpora lutea at slaughter were similar among treatments (P ≥ 0.41). On D+6, serum progesterone (P4) concentration was lower in the Control group than those in the 500 IU and 1000 IU groups (P < 0.01). Administration of 500 or 1000 IU of eCG and hCG during lactation effectively induced the formation of corpora lutea and sustained high serum P4 levels for at least 13 d post-weaning, thereby inhibiting estrus expression in 76 to 90 % of treated sows.
{"title":"Treatment with chorionic gonadotropins during lactation inhibits post-weaning estrus expression in sows","authors":"Arthur Martelli , Monike Willemin Quirino , Michele Dezordi Franz , Vanessa Peripolli , Fabiana Moreira , Bernardo Garziera Gasperin , Rafael da Rosa Ulguim , Vilceu Bordignon , Thomaz Lucia Jr , Ivan Bianchi","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106977","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106977","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study evaluated the efficiency of protocols using two different dosages of eCG and hCG administered during lactation to delay post-weaning estrus expression in sows. Sixty-two sows were selected on D-14 (D0 = weaning) and allocated to one of three treatments: Control (<em>n</em> = 20; saline administration on D-7 and D-4); 500 IU (<em>n</em> = 21; 500 IU eCG on D-7 and 500 IU hCG on D-4); and 1000 IU (<em>n</em> = 21; 1000 IU eCG on D-7 and 1000 IU hCG on D-4). Estrus detection was performed twice daily after weaning, and blood samples were collected on D-7, D-1, D+6, and D+13. On D+15, the sows were slaughtered for ovarian evaluation. The percentage of sows detected in estrus post-weaning was greater in the Control group (90.0%) compared to the 500 IU (23.8%) and 1000 IU (9.5%) groups (<em>P</em> < 0.01). The proportion of sows with corpus hemorrhagicum and/or corpus luteum and the total number of corpora lutea at slaughter were similar among treatments (<em>P</em> ≥ 0.41). On D+6, serum progesterone (P4) concentration was lower in the Control group than those in the 500 IU and 1000 IU groups (<em>P</em> < 0.01). Administration of 500 or 1000 IU of eCG and hCG during lactation effectively induced the formation of corpora lutea and sustained high serum P4 levels for at least 13 d post-weaning, thereby inhibiting estrus expression in 76 to 90 % of treated sows.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 106977"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-10-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145344112","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-01DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106976
Bajram Berisha , Michael W. Pfaffl , Granit Thaqi
The purpose of the study was to characterize the expression patterns of apelin and its receptor APJ (apelin/APJ) in superovulation induced follicles and corpus luteum (CL) tissue in the cow. Ovaries containing different classes of preovulatory follicles and early CL were timely defined during GnRH (gonadotropin hormone-releasing hormone) induced superovulation as follows: Before GnRH application, follicles group I: 0 h (control group) and after GnRH; group II: 4 h (corresponds to LH peak); group III:10 h; group IV: 20 h; group V: 25 h (corresponds close to ovulation) and group VI: 60 h (after ovulation - early CL). This experiment has made it possible for the direct comparison of the apelin/APJ system members in follicle tissue (theca interna plus granulosa cells) of periovulatory follicle groups with the subsequent CL tissue after ovulation (early CL, day 2-3). Relative gene expression levels were measured by RT-qPCR. The low level of apelin mRNA in the follicle group before the GnRH application (Group I), remained unchanged even in the follicle group II and III (4 h and 10 h after GnRH respectively). Apelin expression levels increased significantly by only 20 h after GnRH (group IV follicles: just before ovulation), remaining high during follicle ovulation (Group V: 20 h) and after ovulation (Group VI: early CL). In contrast, the low APJ mRNA level increased significantly in follicle group II (during LH peak) remaining high in all follicle groups before ovulation, as well as after ovulation (early CL). Our results indicate the possible involvement of apelin system (apelin/APJ) as a possible key regulator in the local mechanisms supporting final follicle maturation and ovulation, as well as the follicular-luteal transition and CL formation in cows.
{"title":"Effects of experimentally induced LH surge on local regulation of apelin/APJ in follicle during ovulation and corpus luteum formation in the cow","authors":"Bajram Berisha , Michael W. Pfaffl , Granit Thaqi","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106976","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106976","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The purpose of the study was to characterize the expression patterns of apelin and its receptor APJ (apelin/APJ) in superovulation induced follicles and corpus luteum (CL) tissue in the cow. Ovaries containing different classes of preovulatory follicles and early CL were timely defined during GnRH (gonadotropin hormone-releasing hormone) induced superovulation as follows: Before GnRH application, follicles group I: 0 h (control group) and after GnRH; group II: 4 h (corresponds to LH peak); group III:10 h; group IV: 20 h; group V: 25 h (corresponds close to ovulation) and group VI: 60 h (after ovulation - early CL). This experiment has made it possible for the direct comparison of the apelin/APJ system members in follicle tissue (theca interna plus granulosa cells) of periovulatory follicle groups with the subsequent CL tissue after ovulation (early CL, day 2-3). Relative gene expression levels were measured by RT-qPCR. The low level of apelin mRNA in the follicle group before the GnRH application (Group I), remained unchanged even in the follicle group II and III (4 h and 10 h after GnRH respectively). Apelin expression levels increased significantly by only 20 h after GnRH (group IV follicles: just before ovulation), remaining high during follicle ovulation (Group V: 20 h) and after ovulation (Group VI: early CL). In contrast, the low APJ mRNA level increased significantly in follicle group II (during LH peak) remaining high in all follicle groups before ovulation, as well as after ovulation (early CL). Our results indicate the possible involvement of apelin system (apelin/APJ) as a possible key regulator in the local mechanisms supporting final follicle maturation and ovulation, as well as the follicular-luteal transition and CL formation in cows.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 106976"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145217298","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-16DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106975
H. Dardente , D. Lomet , O. Lasserre , A.A. Gonzalez , X. Mialhe , J. Cognié
The photoperiodic control of seasonal functions requires the action of melatonin at the pars tuberalis of the pituitary and subsequent control of local thyroid hormone (TH) signaling by tanycytes lining the basolateral part of the third ventricle. Therefore, TH supply of tanycytes through the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) produced by the choroid plexuses (CP) is central to photoperiodism. Here, the transcriptome of the CP of the lateral ventricles was established by RNAseq in ewes maintained under three experimental conditions: ewes exposed to a short photoperiod (SP; 8.5 h of light), intact ewes submitted to an acute 3-week exposure to a long photoperiod (LP-Sham; 15.5 h of light) and ewes thyroidectomized prior to the LP exposure (LP-THX). Photoperiod impacted the expression of 1169 genes (SP vs LP-Sham) while 575 genes were sensitive to TH (LP vs LP-THX). Compared to TH-responsive genes, photoperiod-responsive genes displayed rather weak transcriptional changes. In line with this, RT-qPCR for select candidate genes validated the impact of TH, but not that of photoperiod. We demonstrate weak expression of the melatonin MT1 receptor in the CP, which provides a functional rationale for this. In conclusion, the CP appears as a permissive tissue to the expression of TH-dependent seasonality governed by tanycytes rather than being an integral component of the melatonin-dependent photoperiodic response.
季节性功能的光周期控制需要褪黑素在垂体结节部的作用，以及随后通过第三脑室基底外侧的伸长细胞控制局部甲状腺激素（TH）信号。因此，通过脉络膜丛（CP）产生的脑脊液（CSF）向伸长细胞供应TH是光周期病的核心。在三种实验条件下：短光周期暴露的母羊（SP； 8.5 h的光），完整的母羊在3周的长光周期暴露（LP- sham； 15.5 h的光），以及在LP暴露前切除甲状腺的母羊（LP- thx），通过RNAseq建立了侧脑室CP的转录组。光周期影响1169个基因（SP vs LP- sham）的表达，575个基因对TH敏感（LP vs LP- thx）。与促甲状腺素应答基因相比，光周期应答基因表现出较弱的转录变化。与此相一致的是，对选择的候选基因的RT-qPCR验证了TH的影响，而不是光周期的影响。我们证明褪黑激素MT1受体在CP中的弱表达，这为这提供了功能上的基本原理。总之，CP似乎是一个允许组织表达由伸长细胞控制的th依赖性季节性，而不是褪黑激素依赖性光周期反应的一个组成部分。
{"title":"The transcriptome of the ovine choroid plexus is regulated by thyroid hormone but not by photoperiod","authors":"H. Dardente , D. Lomet , O. Lasserre , A.A. Gonzalez , X. Mialhe , J. Cognié","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106975","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106975","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The photoperiodic control of seasonal functions requires the action of melatonin at the <em>pars tuberalis</em> of the pituitary and subsequent control of local thyroid hormone (TH) signaling by tanycytes lining the basolateral part of the third ventricle. Therefore, TH supply of tanycytes through the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) produced by the choroid plexuses (CP) is central to photoperiodism. Here, the transcriptome of the CP of the lateral ventricles was established by RNAseq in ewes maintained under three experimental conditions: ewes exposed to a short photoperiod (SP; 8.5 h of light), intact ewes submitted to an acute 3-week exposure to a long photoperiod (LP-Sham; 15.5 h of light) and ewes thyroidectomized prior to the LP exposure (LP-THX). Photoperiod impacted the expression of 1169 genes (SP vs LP-Sham) while 575 genes were sensitive to TH (LP vs LP-THX). Compared to TH-responsive genes, photoperiod-responsive genes displayed rather weak transcriptional changes. In line with this, RT-qPCR for select candidate genes validated the impact of TH, but not that of photoperiod. We demonstrate weak expression of the melatonin MT1 receptor in the CP, which provides a functional rationale for this. In conclusion, the CP appears as a permissive tissue to the expression of TH-dependent seasonality governed by tanycytes rather than being an integral component of the melatonin-dependent photoperiodic response.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 106975"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-09-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145118482","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-26DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106963
Douglas M. Souza , Maximiliane A. Zambom , Ryana C. Markmann , Brenda Souza , Tamires M. Schuster , Kathrin Bühler , Ériton E.L. Valente
Plant-derived 1,25(OH)2D3-glycosides modulate calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) metabolism, but the safety of sustained oral supplementation in cattle remains unclear. The objective of this study was to establish a safe upper limit for dietary supplementation of 1,25(OH)2D3-glycosides in steers and to assess its impact on mineral and neurotransmitters metabolism. Six Holstein steers (452 ± 61.5 kg) were used in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin Square design. Treatments consisted of oral administration of 1,25(OH)2D3-glycosides at doses of 0, 0.2, and 0.4 µg/kg body weight (BW) for five consecutive days. Blood samples were collected prior to the initiation of treatment, as well as immediately before (0 h) and at 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 168 hours following the final dose on day 5. The serum Ca remained (P < 0.001) elevated up to 72 h and 96 h following the final administration of 1,25(OH)2D3-glycoside at doses of 0.2 µg/kg BW and 0.4 µg/kg BW, respectively. In contrast, serum P concentrations remained significantly elevated (P = 0.001) for more than 168 hours post-treatment, regardless of the administered dose. No significant effects were observed on serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity (P = 0.298), parathyroid hormone (PTH; P = 0.183) concentrations, or circulating serotonin (P = 0.428) and dopamine (P = 0.846). Additionally, no clinical signs consistent with vitamin D intoxication were observed. Oral supplementation with 1,25(OH)2D3-glycosides at doses up to 0.4 µg/kg BW for 5 days induces a sustained elevation in serum Ca and P concentrations, more evidently at higher dosages, without altering serum concentration of ALP, PTH, serotonin or dopamine indicating that 0.4 µg/kg BW dosage might be close to the upper threshold of 1,25(OH)2D3-glycosides in cattle while 0.2 µg/kg BW can be considered as safe.
{"title":"Threshold dose of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol-glycosides on mineral metabolism and circulating serotonin and dopamine in bovines","authors":"Douglas M. Souza , Maximiliane A. Zambom , Ryana C. Markmann , Brenda Souza , Tamires M. Schuster , Kathrin Bühler , Ériton E.L. Valente","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106963","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106963","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Plant-derived 1,25(OH)<sub>2</sub>D<sub>3</sub>-glycosides modulate calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) metabolism, but the safety of sustained oral supplementation in cattle remains unclear. The objective of this study was to establish a safe upper limit for dietary supplementation of 1,25(OH)<sub>2</sub>D<sub>3</sub>-glycosides in steers and to assess its impact on mineral and neurotransmitters metabolism. Six Holstein steers (452 ± 61.5 kg) were used in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin Square design. Treatments consisted of oral administration of 1,25(OH)<sub>2</sub>D<sub>3</sub>-glycosides at doses of 0, 0.2, and 0.4 µg/kg body weight (BW) for five consecutive days. Blood samples were collected prior to the initiation of treatment, as well as immediately before (0 h) and at 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 168 hours following the final dose on day 5. The serum Ca remained (<em>P < 0.001</em>) elevated up to 72 h and 96 h following the final administration of 1,25(OH)<sub>2</sub>D<sub>3</sub>-glycoside at doses of 0.2 µg/kg BW and 0.4 µg/kg BW, respectively. In contrast, serum P concentrations remained significantly elevated (<em>P = 0.001</em>) for more than 168 hours post-treatment, regardless of the administered dose. No significant effects were observed on serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity (<em>P = 0.298</em>), parathyroid hormone (PTH; <em>P = 0.183</em>) concentrations, or circulating serotonin (<em>P = 0.428</em>) and dopamine (<em>P = 0.846</em>). Additionally, no clinical signs consistent with vitamin D intoxication were observed. Oral supplementation with 1,25(OH)<sub>2</sub>D<sub>3</sub>-glycosides at doses up to 0.4 µg/kg BW for 5 days induces a sustained elevation in serum Ca and P concentrations, more evidently at higher dosages, without altering serum concentration of ALP, PTH, serotonin or dopamine indicating that 0.4 µg/kg BW dosage might be close to the upper threshold of 1,25(OH)<sub>2</sub>D<sub>3</sub>-glycosides in cattle while 0.2 µg/kg BW can be considered as safe.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 106963"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-08-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144917865","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-16DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106962
Wenxiang Luo , Lisa B. Wiltbank-Chau , Hemanta K. Shrestha , Milo C. Wiltbank
Regulation of immune cells during luteolysis has been previously described, however inter- and intra-cellular pathways that mediate PGF2α induction of immune cells in the bovine corpus luteum (CL) have not been clearly defined. Real-time PCR was used to measure chemokine mRNA and Western blotting used to measure phosphorylation of signaling proteins after PGF2α treatment of early and mid-cycle CL and in similar-stage luteinized granulosa cells (LuGC). In Day 11 CL (with luteolytic capacity), PGF2α induced expression of CXCL8, CXCL2, CCL2, and CCL8 at 1 h after treatment and continued to stimulate the four chemokines at 10 h after treatment. In Day 4 CL (without luteolytic capacity), there was a less robust increase in chemokine mRNA at 1 h after PGF2α with no detectable effect at 10 h after PGF2α. In luteinized granulosa cells (LuGC), PGF2α induced a dramatic increase in mRNA for CXCL8 and CXCL2 with no change in mRNA for CCL2 and CCL8. In granulosa cells incubated for a similar time in conditions that did not induce luteinization, PGF2α did not alter transcription of any of these chemokines. In mature LuGC, treatment with PGF2α rapidly phosphorylated a key protein in the NFκB pathway, NFKBIA, and in the MAP kinase pathway, MAPK3, with no change in total amounts of these proteins. Moreover, in LuGC, induction by PGF2α of CXCL2 was inhibited by a PKC inhibitor and a NFκB pathway inhibitor. In addition, PGF2α-regulated phosphorylation of NFKBIA was blocked by the PKC inhibitor. In contrast, induction of CXCL8 by PGF2α was inhibited by a MAP kinase inhibitor. Thus, PGF2α induction of chemokines is closely related to luteolytic capacity. Further, two key chemokines, CXCL8 and CXCL2, seem to originate from large luteal cells through distinct signaling pathways that are activated by PGF2α.
免疫细胞在黄体溶解过程中的调节先前已被描述过，但是在牛黄体（CL）中介导PGF2α诱导免疫细胞的细胞间和细胞内途径尚未明确定义。Real-time PCR检测趋化因子mRNA， Western blotting检测PGF2α处理早期和中期CL及相似期黄体化颗粒细胞（LuGC）后信号蛋白磷酸化水平。在第11天（具有溶血能力），PGF2α在治疗后1小时诱导CXCL8、CXCL2、CCL2和CCL8的表达，并在治疗后10小时继续刺激这四种趋化因子。在第4天（没有溶血能力），趋化因子mRNA在PGF2α后1小时的增加不那么强劲，在PGF2α后10小时没有可检测到的影响。在黄体化颗粒细胞（LuGC）中，PGF2α诱导CXCL8和CXCL2 mRNA显著增加，而CCL2和CCL8 mRNA无变化。在不诱导黄体化的条件下，在颗粒细胞中孵育相同时间，PGF2α不改变任何这些趋化因子的转录。在成熟的LuGC中，PGF2α处理可以快速磷酸化NFκB通路中的关键蛋白NFKBIA和MAP激酶通路中的关键蛋白MAPK3，但这些蛋白的总量没有变化。此外，在LuGC中，PGF2α对CXCL2的诱导被PKC抑制剂和NFκB通路抑制剂抑制。此外，pgf2 α-调节的NFKBIA磷酸化被PKC抑制剂阻断。相比之下，PGF2α对CXCL8的诱导被MAP激酶抑制剂抑制。因此，PGF2α诱导趋化因子与溶血能力密切相关。此外，两个关键的趋化因子CXCL8和CXCL2似乎通过PGF2α激活的不同信号通路起源于大黄体细胞。
{"title":"Differential responsiveness and signaling pathways for prostaglandin F2a on chemokine mRNA in bovine corpus luteum and luteinized granulosa cells","authors":"Wenxiang Luo , Lisa B. Wiltbank-Chau , Hemanta K. Shrestha , Milo C. Wiltbank","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106962","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106962","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Regulation of immune cells during luteolysis has been previously described, however inter- and intra-cellular pathways that mediate PGF<sub>2α</sub> induction of immune cells in the bovine corpus luteum (CL) have not been clearly defined. Real-time PCR was used to measure chemokine mRNA and Western blotting used to measure phosphorylation of signaling proteins after PGF<sub>2α</sub> treatment of early and mid-cycle CL and in similar-stage luteinized granulosa cells (LuGC). In Day 11 CL (with luteolytic capacity), PGF<sub>2α</sub> induced expression of <em>CXCL8, CXCL2, CCL2</em>, and <em>CCL8</em> at 1 h after treatment and continued to stimulate the four chemokines at 10 h after treatment. In Day 4 CL (without luteolytic capacity), there was a less robust increase in chemokine mRNA at 1 h after PGF<sub>2α</sub> with no detectable effect at 10 h after PGF<sub>2α</sub>. In luteinized granulosa cells (LuGC), PGF<sub>2α</sub> induced a dramatic increase in mRNA for <em>CXCL8</em> and <em>CXCL2</em> with no change in mRNA for <em>CCL2</em> and <em>CCL8</em>. In granulosa cells incubated for a similar time in conditions that did not induce luteinization, PGF<sub>2α</sub> did not alter transcription of any of these chemokines. In mature LuGC, treatment with PGF<sub>2α</sub> rapidly phosphorylated a key protein in the NFκB pathway, NFKBIA, and in the MAP kinase pathway, MAPK3, with no change in total amounts of these proteins. Moreover, in LuGC, induction by PGF<sub>2α</sub> of <em>CXCL2</em> was inhibited by a PKC inhibitor and a NFκB pathway inhibitor. In addition, PGF<sub>2α</sub>-regulated phosphorylation of NFKBIA was blocked by the PKC inhibitor. In contrast, induction of <em>CXCL8</em> by PGF<sub>2α</sub> was inhibited by a MAP kinase inhibitor. Thus, PGF<sub>2α</sub> induction of chemokines is closely related to luteolytic capacity. Further, two key chemokines, CXCL8 and CXCL2, seem to originate from large luteal cells through distinct signaling pathways that are activated by PGF<sub>2α</sub>.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"93 ","pages":"Article 106962"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-08-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144886111","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-09DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106960
Miguel A. Velazquez
Leptin is primarily involved in energy homeostasis and has been implicated in fertility. Leptin- and leptin receptor-deficient mouse models have demonstrated that expression of leptin signalling in the central nervous system is essential for ovulation. However, evidence from ruminants and other species gathered from models with physiological leptin signalling suggests that modulation of leptin may not play a major role in the attainment of ovulation in post-pubertal individuals, despite influencing ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis. In vitro studies indicate that leptin concentrations between 10 and 100 ng/ml may inconsistently enhance oocyte maturation across several species. However, most livestock studies report positive effects only at concentrations higher than those found in follicular fluid, raising questions about the physiological relevance of these findings. Similarly, in humans, leptin levels in follicular fluid show inconsistent correlations with oocyte maturation, further questioning the role of leptin in the completion of meiosis. In null mutant models of leptin or its receptor, leptin expression is required for pre-implantation development but does not appear to be essential for implantation. Furthermore, contradictory in vitro data on leptin-mediated effects during oocyte maturation and pre-implantation development across various species do not support an essential role of leptin in the ability of oocytes to form a blastocyst or in the progression of early embryos to the blastocyst stage. Overall, while the presence of leptin is crucial for ovulation and pre-implantation development, its modulation under physiological leptin signalling appears to have a minimal impact on blastocyst formation, suggesting a dispensable role in mammalian reproduction.
{"title":"The role of leptin in mammalian oocyte developmental competence and pre-implantation embryo development","authors":"Miguel A. Velazquez","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106960","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106960","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Leptin is primarily involved in energy homeostasis and has been implicated in fertility. Leptin- and leptin receptor-deficient mouse models have demonstrated that expression of leptin signalling in the central nervous system is essential for ovulation. However, evidence from ruminants and other species gathered from models with physiological leptin signalling suggests that modulation of leptin may not play a major role in the attainment of ovulation in post-pubertal individuals, despite influencing ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis. <em>In vitro</em> studies indicate that leptin concentrations between 10 and 100 ng/ml may inconsistently enhance oocyte maturation across several species. However, most livestock studies report positive effects only at concentrations higher than those found in follicular fluid, raising questions about the physiological relevance of these findings. Similarly, in humans, leptin levels in follicular fluid show inconsistent correlations with oocyte maturation, further questioning the role of leptin in the completion of meiosis. In null mutant models of leptin or its receptor, leptin expression is required for pre-implantation development but does not appear to be essential for implantation. Furthermore, contradictory <em>in vitro</em> data on leptin-mediated effects during oocyte maturation and pre-implantation development across various species do not support an essential role of leptin in the ability of oocytes to form a blastocyst or in the progression of early embryos to the blastocyst stage. Overall, while the presence of leptin is crucial for ovulation and pre-implantation development, its modulation under physiological leptin signalling appears to have a minimal impact on blastocyst formation, suggesting a dispensable role in mammalian reproduction.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"93 ","pages":"Article 106960"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-08-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144842205","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-08DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106961
Narin Liman , Orsolya Balogh , Betül Fidan , Linda Müller , Aykut Gram
Osteopontin (OPN) is a highly phosphorylated glycoprotein expressed in several cells, tissues, and tissue fluids, including the male reproductive system. Recent studies have indicated that OPN may be a potential fertility marker in male dogs. However, OPN expression and localization during testicular growth are still unclear, and the effect of pharmacological castration on testicular OPN expression in male dogs has not been studied to date. This study aimed to investigate and compare the expression and protein immunolocalization of OPN in the prepubertal (PRE) and adult dog (AD) testes, while also evaluating whether treatment of adult dogs (DES) with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-agonist deslorelin (Suprelorin® 4.7 mg implant) could alter the expression of testicular OPN. A significantly elevated OPN gene expression (p ≤ 0.007) was detected in the PRE dogs' testes than in AD and DES dogs. In addition, OPN mRNA expression was higher in DES dogs than in AD (p = 0.002). OPN-immunoreactivity was observed in all groups as granular staining in Sertoli and Leydig cell cytoplasm. Furthermore, in AD dogs, one or sometimes two OPN-positive granules were observed in round spermatids at stage V, and in elongating and elongated spermatids at stages I-III and VI-VIII of the spermatogenic cycle. Our results confirm the presence of OPN in the testes of prepubertal, adult, and deslorelin-induced spermatogenic and steroidogenic arrest dogs and reveal that infertile status, either developmental in PRE or induced in DES, affects testicular OPN expression.
{"title":"Osteopontin expression in prepubertal and adult dog testes and the effect of slow-release deslorelin implants (Suprelorin® 4.7 mg)","authors":"Narin Liman , Orsolya Balogh , Betül Fidan , Linda Müller , Aykut Gram","doi":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106961","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.domaniend.2025.106961","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Osteopontin (OPN) is a highly phosphorylated glycoprotein expressed in several cells, tissues, and tissue fluids, including the male reproductive system. Recent studies have indicated that OPN may be a potential fertility marker in male dogs. However, OPN expression and localization during testicular growth are still unclear, and the effect of pharmacological castration on testicular OPN expression in male dogs has not been studied to date. This study aimed to investigate and compare the expression and protein immunolocalization of OPN in the prepubertal (PRE) and adult dog (AD) testes, while also evaluating whether treatment of adult dogs (DES) with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-agonist deslorelin (Suprelorin® 4.7 mg implant) could alter the expression of testicular OPN. A significantly elevated OPN gene expression (p ≤ 0.007) was detected in the PRE dogs' testes than in AD and DES dogs. In addition, OPN mRNA expression was higher in DES dogs than in AD (p = 0.002). OPN-immunoreactivity was observed in all groups as granular staining in Sertoli and Leydig cell cytoplasm. Furthermore, in AD dogs, one or sometimes two OPN-positive granules were observed in round spermatids at stage V, and in elongating and elongated spermatids at stages I-III and VI-VIII of the spermatogenic cycle. Our results confirm the presence of OPN in the testes of prepubertal, adult, and deslorelin-induced spermatogenic and steroidogenic arrest dogs and reveal that infertile status, either developmental in PRE or induced in DES, affects testicular OPN expression.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":11356,"journal":{"name":"Domestic animal endocrinology","volume":"93 ","pages":"Article 106961"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-08-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144810502","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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