Animal Reproduction Science最新文献_第4页

Integrated microbiome and metabolome revealing new insight into the combination of lactic acid bacteria in preventing postpartum metritis of dairy cows 综合微生物组和代谢组揭示乳酸菌联合预防奶牛产后子宫炎的新见解。

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-15 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108078

Xiaofeng Li , Min Liu , Hui Xiang , Linsen Gui , Yun Ma , Xingang Dan

Probiotics, particularly composite lactic acid bacteria (CLAB), are emerging as a potential alternative to antibiotics for managing bovine metritis. While prior studies have highlighted CLAB's anti-inflammatory effects, limited data exist on its impact on vaginal and uterine microbiomes and systemic metabolism. In this study, Holstein cows received deep vaginal infusions of CLAB (a blend of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Pediococcus acidilactici and Lactobacillus reuteri; at a standardized 4.5 × 10¹⁰ CFU/dose and a proportion of 25/25/2, respectively) at 20 and 10 days prepartum. We analyzed changes in vaginal and uterine microbiota, plasma metabolomes, and assessed the incidence of metritis, conception rate, and lactation performance postpartum. CLAB administration significantly altered the vaginal microbiota by reducing opportunistic pathogens (Prevotella heparinolytica, Bacteroides and Fusobacteria) and promoting beneficial taxa (Akkermansia and Prevotellaceae). In the uterus, CLAB enriched Rikenellaceae, Christensenellaceae and Lachnospiraceae, while suppressing pathogenic genera such as Cutibacterium and Fournierella. Metabolomic analysis identified pyruvic acid, L-glutamine and L-valine as hub metabolites, with KEGG enrichment revealing involvement in amino acid metabolism and immunomodulatory pathways. Although CLAB infusion did not significantly reduce metritis incidence (5.00 % vs. 5.52 %) or improve conception rate (47.50 % vs. 45.00 %), it showed promising trends without affecting milk production. These findings suggest that prepartum vaginal CLAB infusion modulates reproductive tract microbiota and systemic metabolism, potentially contributing to uterine health maintenance in dairy cows. A key limitation of this study was the absence of significant reductions in metritis incidence and improvements in conception rates, likely attributable to the small sample size and limited study period. Further large-scale studies are warranted to validate its efficacy during high-risk seasons.

益生菌，特别是复合乳酸菌（CLAB），正在成为治疗牛乳酸菌炎的潜在替代抗生素。虽然先前的研究强调了CLAB的抗炎作用，但关于其对阴道和子宫微生物群以及全身代谢的影响的数据有限。在本研究中，荷斯坦奶牛在准备20天和10天阴道深度注射CLAB（鼠李糖乳杆菌、酸乳酸球球菌和罗伊氏乳杆菌的混合物，标准剂量为4.5 × 1010 CFU/，比例分别为25/25/2）。我们分析了阴道和子宫微生物群、血浆代谢组的变化，并评估了子宫炎的发生率、受孕率和产后泌乳表现。CLAB通过减少机会致病菌（溶肝普雷沃氏菌、拟杆菌和梭杆菌）和促进有益类群（Akkermansia和普雷沃氏菌科）显著改变阴道微生物群。CLAB在子宫内富集Rikenellaceae、Christensenellaceae和Lachnospiraceae，同时抑制Cutibacterium和Fournierella等致病属。代谢组学分析发现，丙酮酸、l -谷氨酰胺和l -缬氨酸是枢纽代谢物，KEGG的富集揭示了氨基酸代谢和免疫调节途径的参与。虽然CLAB输注没有显著降低子宫炎发生率（5.00 % vs. 5.52 %）或提高受孕率（47.50 % vs. 45.00 %），但在不影响产奶量的情况下，它显示出很好的趋势。这些结果表明，阴道前注射CLAB可调节生殖道微生物群和全身代谢，可能有助于奶牛子宫健康的维持。本研究的一个关键限制是子宫内膜炎发病率没有显著降低和受孕率的提高，可能是由于样本量小和研究时间有限。需要进一步的大规模研究来验证其在高危季节的有效性。

{"title":"Integrated microbiome and metabolome revealing new insight into the combination of lactic acid bacteria in preventing postpartum metritis of dairy cows","authors":"Xiaofeng Li , Min Liu , Hui Xiang , Linsen Gui , Yun Ma , Xingang Dan","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108078","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108078","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Probiotics, particularly composite lactic acid bacteria (CLAB), are emerging as a potential alternative to antibiotics for managing bovine metritis. While prior studies have highlighted CLAB's anti-inflammatory effects, limited data exist on its impact on vaginal and uterine microbiomes and systemic metabolism. In this study, Holstein cows received deep vaginal infusions of CLAB (a blend of <em>Lactobacillus rhamnosus</em>, <em>Pediococcus acidilactici</em> and <em>Lactobacillus reuteri</em>; at a standardized 4.5 × 10<sup>10</sup> CFU/dose and a proportion of 25/25/2, respectively) at 20 and 10 days prepartum. We analyzed changes in vaginal and uterine microbiota, plasma metabolomes, and assessed the incidence of metritis, conception rate, and lactation performance postpartum. CLAB administration significantly altered the vaginal microbiota by reducing opportunistic pathogens (<em>Prevotella heparinolytica</em>, <em>Bacteroides</em> and <em>Fusobacteria</em>) and promoting beneficial taxa (<em>Akkermansia</em> and <em>Prevotellaceae</em>). In the uterus, CLAB enriched <em>Rikenellaceae</em>, <em>Christensenellaceae</em> and <em>Lachnospiraceae</em>, while suppressing pathogenic genera such as <em>Cutibacterium</em> and <em>Fournierella</em>. Metabolomic analysis identified pyruvic acid, <span>L</span>-glutamine and <span>L</span>-valine as hub metabolites, with KEGG enrichment revealing involvement in amino acid metabolism and immunomodulatory pathways. Although CLAB infusion did not significantly reduce metritis incidence (5.00 % vs. 5.52 %) or improve conception rate (47.50 % vs. 45.00 %), it showed promising trends without affecting milk production. These findings suggest that prepartum vaginal CLAB infusion modulates reproductive tract microbiota and systemic metabolism, potentially contributing to uterine health maintenance in dairy cows. A key limitation of this study was the absence of significant reductions in metritis incidence and improvements in conception rates, likely attributable to the small sample size and limited study period. Further large-scale studies are warranted to validate its efficacy during high-risk seasons.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"285 ","pages":"Article 108078"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145772904","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}

引用次数: 0

Suboptimal responses to E2/P4-based timed AI protocols compromise pregnancy outcomes in fertile beef cattle: Roles of ovulation timing and semen viability 基于E2/ p4的定时人工智能方案的次优反应会影响可育肉牛的妊娠结局：排卵时间和精液活力的作用

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-13 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108077

César Augusto Pinzón-Osorio , Thomaz Kranen Cunha , German Holguin-Sanabria , Marco Alves Machado , Favorino José de Freitas Collares , Luís Henrique de Aguiar , Paula Rodriguez-Villamil , Felipe Ledur Ongaratto , Eduardo Pradebom da Silva , Eduardo de Oliveira Sanguinet , Carolina Silveira da Silva , Daiane Mentz , Karine Campagnolo , Paula Viero Marchioretto , José Martin Klafke , Luís Fernando Schutz , Fernando Caetano de Oliveira , José Luiz Rodrigues , Marcelo Bertolini

Timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocols based on estradiol and progesterone (E2/P4) typically yield pregnancy rates (PR) near 50 % in beef cattle, falling short of the 65–70 % expected in fertile females. This study investigated physiological and procedural limitations that may compromise TAI success due to suboptimal synchrony between insemination and ovulation. Three experiments involving 840 suckled crossbred females evaluated follicular responses, semen type, and alternative reproductive strategies to enhance fertility. In Experiment I (n = 28), daily ultrasonography revealed that 46.4 % of females exhibited suboptimal ovarian responses, defined as no emergence/atresia of the new follicular wave, and ovulation delay or failure. In Experiment II (n = 348), cows with small follicles (<8.5 mm) at P4 removal had markedly higher PR when inseminated with cooled versus frozen semen (71.9 % vs 38.0 %), highlighting the relevance of sperm cell viability when ovulation is delayed. In Experiment III (n = 464), strategies combining TAI with estrus detection (ED), timed embryo transfer (TET), or both significantly increased PR compared to TAI alone (TAI: 53.6 %; TAI+TET: 67.9 %; ED-AI/TAI: 70.5 %; ED-AI/TAI+TET: 68.2 %), which was accompanied by increased twinning rates after TET, suggesting that many TAI failures were not due to uterine inadequacy or embryo mortality but to asynchrony in gamete encounter. Collectively, results suggest that most TAI failures stem from impaired synchrony between ovulation and sperm cell availability rather than uterine or embryonic limitations. Incorporating tools such as ultrasonography, semen selection, ED, or TET may enhance reproductive outcomes in commercial beef herds under E2/P4-based TAI protocols.

基于雌二醇和黄体酮（E2/P4）的定时人工授精（TAI）方案通常使肉牛的怀孕率（PR）接近50% %，低于可育雌性预期的65- 70% %。本研究调查了由于授精和排卵之间的非最佳同步而可能影响人工授精成功的生理和程序限制。对840只哺乳杂交雌性进行了三项实验，评估了卵泡反应、精液类型和提高生育能力的替代生殖策略。在实验1 （n = 28）中，每日超声检查显示46.4% %的女性表现出不理想的卵巢反应，定义为新卵泡波没有出现/闭锁，排卵延迟或失败。试验二（n = 348）中，卵泡小的奶牛(

{"title":"Suboptimal responses to E2/P4-based timed AI protocols compromise pregnancy outcomes in fertile beef cattle: Roles of ovulation timing and semen viability","authors":"César Augusto Pinzón-Osorio , Thomaz Kranen Cunha , German Holguin-Sanabria , Marco Alves Machado , Favorino José de Freitas Collares , Luís Henrique de Aguiar , Paula Rodriguez-Villamil , Felipe Ledur Ongaratto , Eduardo Pradebom da Silva , Eduardo de Oliveira Sanguinet , Carolina Silveira da Silva , Daiane Mentz , Karine Campagnolo , Paula Viero Marchioretto , José Martin Klafke , Luís Fernando Schutz , Fernando Caetano de Oliveira , José Luiz Rodrigues , Marcelo Bertolini","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108077","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108077","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocols based on estradiol and progesterone (E2/P4) typically yield pregnancy rates (PR) near 50 % in beef cattle, falling short of the 65–70 % expected in fertile females. This study investigated physiological and procedural limitations that may compromise TAI success due to suboptimal synchrony between insemination and ovulation. Three experiments involving 840 suckled crossbred females evaluated follicular responses, semen type, and alternative reproductive strategies to enhance fertility. In Experiment I (<em>n</em> = 28), daily ultrasonography revealed that 46.4 % of females exhibited suboptimal ovarian responses, defined as no emergence/atresia of the new follicular wave, and ovulation delay or failure. In Experiment II (<em>n</em> = 348), cows with small follicles (<8.5 mm) at P4 removal had markedly higher PR when inseminated with cooled versus frozen semen (71.9 % <em>vs</em> 38.0 %), highlighting the relevance of sperm cell viability when ovulation is delayed. In Experiment III (<em>n</em> = 464), strategies combining TAI with estrus detection (ED), timed embryo transfer (TET), or both significantly increased PR compared to TAI alone (TAI: 53.6 %; TAI+TET: 67.9 %; ED-AI/TAI: 70.5 %; ED-AI/TAI+TET: 68.2 %), which was accompanied by increased twinning rates after TET, suggesting that many TAI failures were not due to uterine inadequacy or embryo mortality but to asynchrony in gamete encounter. Collectively, results suggest that most TAI failures stem from impaired synchrony between ovulation and sperm cell availability rather than uterine or embryonic limitations. Incorporating tools such as ultrasonography, semen selection, ED, or TET may enhance reproductive outcomes in commercial beef herds under E2/P4-based TAI protocols.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"285 ","pages":"Article 108077"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145766934","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}

引用次数: 0

Investigating the plasma membrane composition and osmotic tolerance of domestic felid (Felis catus) spermatozoa as a model for non-domestic felids 研究家养猫科动物精子的质膜组成和渗透耐受性，作为非家养猫科动物的模型。

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-13 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108076

Emily A. Lugo , James K. Graham , James D. Gillis , Jennifer P. Barfield

Domestic cats (Felis catus) serve as a model for studying non-domestic cat reproduction. In particular, assisted reproductive technologies, such as cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, often are developed in domestic species and then applied to non-domestic species. Membrane composition and osmotic tolerance impact a sperm’s ability to withstand the stresses of cryopreservation. In this study, the membrane cholesterol content and osmotic tolerance range of domestic field spermatozoa were investigated and considered when testing alternative cryoprotectants and methods (addition of cholesterol) for felid sperm cryopreservation. The most commonly used cryoprotectant for felid sperm, glycerol, was compared to methylformamide (MF), dimethylformamide (DMF), and combinations of glycerol with both MF and DMF. To verify osmotic tolerance range, domestic cat sperm were subjected to 12 different anisosmotic solutions, ranging from 0 to 1200 mOsm/kg. Using flow cytometry, > 65 % of the sperm maintained intact membranes between 50 and 600 mOsm/kg, verifying that epididymal domestic cat sperm have a wide osmotic tolerance range. In addition, epididymal cat sperm have a relatively high cholesterol:phospholipid ratio (0.70) and attempting to increase the cholesterol content did not benefit cryosurvival. The alternative cryoprotectant DMF, however, did improve post-thaw percentages of motile sperm (43 %) compared to glycerol (24 %; P < 0.05), with 8 % DMF resulting in higher post-thaw motility than sperm frozen with 5 % DMF (33 vs 54 %; P < 0.05). These findings highlight physiological properties of felid sperm that should be considered when updating protocols to improve cat sperm cryopreservation methods.

家猫（Felis catus）是研究非家猫繁殖的模型。特别是，辅助生殖技术，如配子和胚胎的冷冻保存，通常是在家养物种中开发出来的，然后应用于非家养物种。膜组成和渗透耐受性影响精子承受低温保存压力的能力。在本研究中，研究了国产野外精子的膜胆固醇含量和渗透耐受范围，并考虑了用于野外精子冷冻保存的替代冷冻保护剂和方法（添加胆固醇）。将最常用的冷冻保护剂甘油与甲基甲酰胺（MF）、二甲基甲酰胺（DMF）以及甘油与MF和DMF的组合进行了比较。为了验证渗透耐受范围，将家猫精子置于12种不同的异渗溶液中，范围为0 ~ 1200 mOsm/kg。通过流式细胞术，> 65 %的精子在50 ~ 600 mOsm/kg之间保持完整的膜，验证家猫附睾精子具有广泛的渗透耐受范围。此外，猫附睾精子的胆固醇：磷脂比率相对较高（0.70），试图增加胆固醇含量不利于冷冻存活。然而，与甘油相比，替代冷冻保护剂DMF确实提高了解冻后游动精子的百分比（43% %）(24% %；P

{"title":"Investigating the plasma membrane composition and osmotic tolerance of domestic felid (Felis catus) spermatozoa as a model for non-domestic felids","authors":"Emily A. Lugo , James K. Graham , James D. Gillis , Jennifer P. Barfield","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108076","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108076","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Domestic cats (<em>Felis catus</em>) serve as a model for studying non-domestic cat reproduction. In particular, assisted reproductive technologies, such as cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, often are developed in domestic species and then applied to non-domestic species. Membrane composition and osmotic tolerance impact a sperm’s ability to withstand the stresses of cryopreservation. In this study, the membrane cholesterol content and osmotic tolerance range of domestic field spermatozoa were investigated and considered when testing alternative cryoprotectants and methods (addition of cholesterol) for felid sperm cryopreservation. The most commonly used cryoprotectant for felid sperm, glycerol, was compared to methylformamide (MF), dimethylformamide (DMF), and combinations of glycerol with both MF and DMF. To verify osmotic tolerance range, domestic cat sperm were subjected to 12 different anisosmotic solutions, ranging from 0 to 1200 mOsm/kg. Using flow cytometry, <u>></u> 65 % of the sperm maintained intact membranes between 50 and 600 mOsm/kg, verifying that epididymal domestic cat sperm have a wide osmotic tolerance range. In addition, epididymal cat sperm have a relatively high cholesterol:phospholipid ratio (0.70) and attempting to increase the cholesterol content did not benefit cryosurvival. The alternative cryoprotectant DMF, however, did improve post-thaw percentages of motile sperm (43 %) compared to glycerol (24 %; <em>P</em> < 0.05), with 8 % DMF resulting in higher post-thaw motility than sperm frozen with 5 % DMF (33 vs 54 %; <em>P</em> < 0.05). These findings highlight physiological properties of felid sperm that should be considered when updating protocols to improve cat sperm cryopreservation methods.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"285 ","pages":"Article 108076"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145766983","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}

引用次数: 0

Lycopene as a protective antioxidant in sperm preservation 番茄红素在精子保存中的保护性抗氧化剂作用。

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-09 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108075

Mohsen Shayestehyekta , Azita Faramarzi , Zahra Rashidi , Mojtaba Moradi

Sperm preservation is a pivotal technique in reproductive science, facilitating the long-term preservation and utilization of valuable genetic material, particularly in animal breeding programs and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). However, the freezing-thawing process imposes significant physiological stress on sperm cells, primarily due to oxidative damage. This oxidative stress disrupts critical cellular functions, leading to reduced sperm motility, viability, DNA integrity, and membrane stability, thereby compromising overall reproductive potential. Among various antioxidant strategies, lycopene, a potent carotenoid, has emerged as a promising candidate for mitigating cryoinjury. This review provides a comprehensive overview of lycopene’s role in sperm cryopreservation and cold storage, emphasizing its effect on post-thaw sperm quality. Experimental evidence from animal studies indicates that lycopene supplementation effectively neutralizes reactive oxygen species, reduces lipid peroxidation, and preserves structural integrity by integrating into cell membranes. These protective effects contribute to enhancing sperm functionality post-thaw, potentially improving fertilization outcomes. Yet, this review critically highlights that the efficacy of lycopene is a double-edged sword: its effects are highly dose- and species-dependent, with excessive concentrations paradoxically impairing sperm performance. We conclude that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach is ineffective, and future investigations must move beyond simple supplementation to focus on optimizing species-specific formulations and validating in vitro benefits with in vivo fertility trials to fully harness lycopene's potential in reproductive applications.

精子保存是生殖科学的一项关键技术，有助于长期保存和利用有价值的遗传物质，特别是在动物育种计划和辅助生殖技术（ART）中。然而，冻融过程对精子细胞施加了显著的生理压力，主要是由于氧化损伤。这种氧化应激破坏了关键的细胞功能，导致精子活力、活力、DNA完整性和膜稳定性降低，从而损害了整体生殖潜力。在各种抗氧化策略中，番茄红素是一种有效的类胡萝卜素，已成为减轻低温损伤的有希望的候选者。本文综述了番茄红素在精子低温保存和冷藏中的作用，重点介绍了番茄红素对解冻后精子质量的影响。来自动物研究的实验证据表明，补充番茄红素可以有效地中和活性氧，减少脂质过氧化，并通过整合到细胞膜中来保持结构完整性。这些保护作用有助于提高解冻后精子的功能，潜在地改善受精结果。然而，这篇综述批判性地强调了番茄红素的功效是一把双刃剑：它的作用是高度剂量和物种依赖的，浓度过高反而会损害精子的表现。我们的结论是，“一刀切”的方法是无效的，未来的研究必须超越简单的补充，专注于优化特定物种的配方，并通过体内生育试验验证番茄红素的体外益处，以充分利用番茄红素在生殖应用中的潜力。

{"title":"Lycopene as a protective antioxidant in sperm preservation","authors":"Mohsen Shayestehyekta , Azita Faramarzi , Zahra Rashidi , Mojtaba Moradi","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108075","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108075","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Sperm preservation is a pivotal technique in reproductive science, facilitating the long-term preservation and utilization of valuable genetic material, particularly in animal breeding programs and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). However, the freezing-thawing process imposes significant physiological stress on sperm cells, primarily due to oxidative damage. This oxidative stress disrupts critical cellular functions, leading to reduced sperm motility, viability, DNA integrity, and membrane stability, thereby compromising overall reproductive potential. Among various antioxidant strategies, lycopene, a potent carotenoid, has emerged as a promising candidate for mitigating cryoinjury. This review provides a comprehensive overview of lycopene’s role in sperm cryopreservation and cold storage, emphasizing its effect on post-thaw sperm quality. Experimental evidence from animal studies indicates that lycopene supplementation effectively neutralizes reactive oxygen species, reduces lipid peroxidation, and preserves structural integrity by integrating into cell membranes. These protective effects contribute to enhancing sperm functionality post-thaw, potentially improving fertilization outcomes. Yet, this review critically highlights that the efficacy of lycopene is a double-edged sword: its effects are highly dose- and species-dependent, with excessive concentrations paradoxically impairing sperm performance. We conclude that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach is ineffective, and future investigations must move beyond simple supplementation to focus on optimizing species-specific formulations and validating in vitro benefits with in vivo fertility trials to fully harness lycopene's potential in reproductive applications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"285 ","pages":"Article 108075"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145754729","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}

引用次数: 0

Maturity determination and its potential application for fish captive breeding 成熟度测定及其在鱼类圈养养殖中的潜在应用

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-09 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108074

Darmawan Setia Budi , Agus Priyadi , Asep Permana , Ikhsan Khasani , Tamás Müller , Ahmad Shofy Mubarak , Imam Mustofa

Habitat degradation, overfishing, pollution, and climate change threaten many fish species, necessitating urgent conservation efforts. Captive breeding is essential for fish species recovery and genetic diversity preservation, with maturity determination being crucial for broodstock management, breeding success, and sustainable aquaculture practices. Standardized, species-specific protocols and non-invasive methods for accurately determining fish maturity are currently lacking. This review synthesizes current methodologies and practical applications of maturity determination in fish captive breeding, emphasizing how established knowledge can be applied to improve broodstock management and conservation. Traditional methods, like morphological and gonadal assessments, remain foundational, while histological and molecular techniques offer enhanced precision but are resource-intensive. Non-invasive imaging methods, including ultrasound, provide innovative alternatives for evaluating gonadal development. Behavioral cues, such as aggression, shoaling, and nesting, complement physiological assessments, enhancing accuracy. A multi-method approach is essential to address the diverse reproductive strategies of fish species. Advances in camera-based technologies and diagnostic kits for hormone detection offer novel, non-invasive, and scalable maturity assessments, reducing stress on fish. The integration of maturity determination with aquaculture facilitates broodstock selection, stock enhancement, and conservation efforts, promoting the long-term sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. This review highlights the need for standardized, species-specific protocols and technological advancements to support sustainable fish breeding. Future research should prioritize developing accessible tools and methodologies that integrate traditional and modern approaches, enhancing biodiversity conservation and promoting aquaculture growth.

栖息地退化、过度捕捞、污染和气候变化威胁着许多鱼类，迫切需要采取保护措施。圈养养殖对鱼类物种恢复和遗传多样性保护至关重要，而成熟度测定对亲鱼管理、繁殖成功和可持续水产养殖做法至关重要。目前还缺乏准确测定鱼类成熟度的标准化、特定物种的协议和非侵入性方法。本文综述了鱼类圈养繁殖中成熟度测定的现有方法和实际应用，强调了如何将已有的知识应用于改善亲鱼的管理和保护。传统的方法，如形态学和性腺评估，仍然是基础，而组织学和分子技术提供了更高的精度，但资源密集。非侵入性成像方法，包括超声，为评估性腺发育提供了创新的选择。行为线索，如攻击性、鱼群和筑巢，补充了生理评估，提高了准确性。多方法研究是解决鱼类繁殖策略多样性问题的关键。基于相机的技术和激素检测诊断试剂盒的进步提供了新颖、无创、可扩展的成熟度评估，减少了鱼类的压力。将成熟度测定与水产养殖相结合，有助于种鱼选择、种群增加和保护工作，促进水生生态系统的长期可持续性。本综述强调需要制定标准化的、特定物种的协议和技术进步，以支持可持续的鱼类养殖。未来的研究应优先开发易获取的工具和方法，将传统和现代方法结合起来，加强生物多样性保护，促进水产养殖增长。

{"title":"Maturity determination and its potential application for fish captive breeding","authors":"Darmawan Setia Budi , Agus Priyadi , Asep Permana , Ikhsan Khasani , Tamás Müller , Ahmad Shofy Mubarak , Imam Mustofa","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108074","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108074","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Habitat degradation, overfishing, pollution, and climate change threaten many fish species, necessitating urgent conservation efforts. Captive breeding is essential for fish species recovery and genetic diversity preservation, with maturity determination being crucial for broodstock management, breeding success, and sustainable aquaculture practices. Standardized, species-specific protocols and non-invasive methods for accurately determining fish maturity are currently lacking. This review synthesizes current methodologies and practical applications of maturity determination in fish captive breeding, emphasizing how established knowledge can be applied to improve broodstock management and conservation. Traditional methods, like morphological and gonadal assessments, remain foundational, while histological and molecular techniques offer enhanced precision but are resource-intensive. Non-invasive imaging methods, including ultrasound, provide innovative alternatives for evaluating gonadal development. Behavioral cues, such as aggression, shoaling, and nesting, complement physiological assessments, enhancing accuracy. A multi-method approach is essential to address the diverse reproductive strategies of fish species. Advances in camera-based technologies and diagnostic kits for hormone detection offer novel, non-invasive, and scalable maturity assessments, reducing stress on fish. The integration of maturity determination with aquaculture facilitates broodstock selection, stock enhancement, and conservation efforts, promoting the long-term sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. This review highlights the need for standardized, species-specific protocols and technological advancements to support sustainable fish breeding. Future research should prioritize developing accessible tools and methodologies that integrate traditional and modern approaches, enhancing biodiversity conservation and promoting aquaculture growth.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"285 ","pages":"Article 108074"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145735570","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}

引用次数: 0

Impact of genetic selection for postweaning weight on the reproductive development of young Nellore bulls 断奶后体重遗传选择对内洛尔幼公牛生殖发育的影响。

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-08 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108073

Marcelo Sant’Ana Borges , Letícia Padovani da Silva , Marina de Oliveira Silva , Mariana Karla Francolino da Silva , Victor Guidi Zardo , Laura Fernanda Sechirolli Silva , Ricardo Dutra Do Bem , André Maciel Crespilho , Maria Eugênia Zerlotti Mercadante , Fabio Morato Monteiro

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of genetic selection for increased postweaning weight on the reproductive development of young Nellore bulls. Seventy-six young Nellore bulls from two distinct selection lines in two experimental years were used: 23 young Nellore Control (NeC) bulls (14.1 ± 0.9 months old), and 53 young Nellore Selection (NeS) bulls (13.9 ± 0.8 months old). The animals were evaluated from 14 to 24 months of age at a mean interval of 58.4 ± 8.5 days. In each assessment, testicular biometry, B-mode testicular ultrasound, Doppler ultrasound of pampiniform plexus, and seminal evaluation were performed. Ten young bulls from each selection line underwent testicular fine-needle aspiration and were subsequently castrated at 18 months old for histological analysis of testicular tissue. Young bulls from the NeS line exhibited greater mean scrotal circumference (P < 0.0001), testicular volume (P < 0.0001), and end diastolic velocity (P < 0.0001) compared to the NeC line. The mean vascular resistance (P < 0.0001) and pulsatility (P < 0.0001) indices were greater in NeC animals than in NeS animals. Genetic selection of young Nellore bulls for increased postweaning weight resulted in greater scrotal circumference, testicular volume, and end diastolic velocity, indicating more pronounced testicular growth. No differences were observed in the seminal, cytological, or histological parameters between selection lines. These findings suggest that selection for increased postweaning weight gain did not compromise reproductive development, promoted an increase in biometric testicular parameters without negative effect on sperm quality or testicular tissue structure.

本研究旨在评估遗传选择对断奶后体重增加对内洛尔公牛生殖发育的影响。选取两个试验年的两个不同选择系的76头Nellore公牛：对照（NeC）公牛23头（14.1 ± 0.9月龄），NeS公牛53头（13.9 ± 0.8月龄）。实验时间为14 ~ 24月龄，平均间隔58.4 ± 8.5天。在每次评估中，进行睾丸生物测量、b超、多普勒睾丸丛超声和精液评估。每个选择系10头公牛进行睾丸细针穿刺，随后在18个月大时阉割睾丸组织进行组织学分析。NeS系幼牛的平均阴囊周长(P

{"title":"Impact of genetic selection for postweaning weight on the reproductive development of young Nellore bulls","authors":"Marcelo Sant’Ana Borges , Letícia Padovani da Silva , Marina de Oliveira Silva , Mariana Karla Francolino da Silva , Victor Guidi Zardo , Laura Fernanda Sechirolli Silva , Ricardo Dutra Do Bem , André Maciel Crespilho , Maria Eugênia Zerlotti Mercadante , Fabio Morato Monteiro","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108073","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108073","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study aimed to evaluate the impact of genetic selection for increased postweaning weight on the reproductive development of young Nellore bulls. Seventy-six young Nellore bulls from two distinct selection lines in two experimental years were used: 23 young Nellore Control (NeC) bulls (14.1 ± 0.9 months old), and 53 young Nellore Selection (NeS) bulls (13.9 ± 0.8 months old). The animals were evaluated from 14 to 24 months of age at a mean interval of 58.4 ± 8.5 days. In each assessment, testicular biometry, B-mode testicular ultrasound, Doppler ultrasound of pampiniform plexus, and seminal evaluation were performed. Ten young bulls from each selection line underwent testicular fine-needle aspiration and were subsequently castrated at 18 months old for histological analysis of testicular tissue. Young bulls from the NeS line exhibited greater mean scrotal circumference (<em>P</em> < 0.0001), testicular volume (<em>P</em> < 0.0001), and end diastolic velocity (<em>P</em> < 0.0001) compared to the NeC line. The mean vascular resistance (<em>P</em> < 0.0001) and pulsatility (<em>P</em> < 0.0001) indices were greater in NeC animals than in NeS animals. Genetic selection of young Nellore bulls for increased postweaning weight resulted in greater scrotal circumference, testicular volume, and end diastolic velocity, indicating more pronounced testicular growth. No differences were observed in the seminal, cytological, or histological parameters between selection lines. These findings suggest that selection for increased postweaning weight gain did not compromise reproductive development, promoted an increase in biometric testicular parameters without negative effect on sperm quality or testicular tissue structure.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"285 ","pages":"Article 108073"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145720036","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}

引用次数: 0

A pilot study on anogenital distance in non-pregnant and pregnant Merino ewes and ewe hoggets measured by calipers and image analysis 用卡尺和图像分析方法测定美利奴母羊和母羊未怀孕和怀孕时肛门生殖器距离的初步研究

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-08 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108072

Tianna R. Boyce, Lillian P. Carlyon, Kiro R. Petrovski, Leesa-Joy Dunstan, Bruno RC Alves, Gebremeskel Mamu Werid, Mariana Caetano

Reproductive traits are fundamental phenotypic traits selected to achieve optimal production efficiency. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of four measurements of anogenital distances (AGD; in mm) and compare them with ewe pregnancy status, measured via pregnancy scanning, using data collected from 80 Merino ewes and 80 ewe hoggets. Digital calipers were used to measure AGDs (AC – anus to clitoris, AVV – anus to ventral vulva commissure, AF – anus to fourchette and VV – vulva length) in each sheep twice by three assessors. High-resolution images were taken for each sheep to conduct further measurements of AGD using an image analysis software. The measurements conducted with the image analysis were correlated with the pregnancy status of ewe hoggets for AF (P < 0.002), VV (P < 0.001) and AVV (P < 0.002), but no association was found for AC (P > 0.05). The measurements performed with calipers by three assessors were more variable compared to image analysis, resulting in lower correlations between the first and second measurements taken on the same animal. The relationship found between three AGD measurements (AF, AVV and VV), and pregnancy status in the ewe hoggets, demonstrates the potential to use this trait as an inexpensive method to estimate pregnancy status. The association with pregnancy status, especially in ewe hoggets, could be easily adopted by producers.

生殖性状是为实现最佳生产效率而选择的基本表型性状。本研究的目的是评估肛门生殖器距离（AGD，以毫米为单位）的四种测量方法的使用，并将其与母羊妊娠状态进行比较，母羊妊娠状态通过妊娠扫描测量，使用收集自80只美利奴母羊和80只母羊的数据。采用数字卡尺对每只羊的AGDs （AC -肛门到阴蒂，AVV -肛门到外阴腹侧连接，AF -肛门到阴道，VV -外阴长度）进行3次测量。为每只羊拍摄高分辨率图像，使用图像分析软件进一步测量AGD。通过图像分析进行的测量结果与母羊妊娠状态的AF （P <； 0.002）、VV （P <； 0.001）和AVV （P <； 0.002）相关，但与AC （P <； 0.05）无关。与图像分析相比，由三名评估人员用卡尺进行的测量更具可变性，导致同一动物的第一次和第二次测量之间的相关性较低。三种AGD测量值（AF、AVV和VV）与母羊妊娠状态之间的关系表明，利用这一特征作为一种廉价的方法来估计妊娠状态的潜力。与妊娠状态的关联，特别是母羊，很容易被生产者采用。

{"title":"A pilot study on anogenital distance in non-pregnant and pregnant Merino ewes and ewe hoggets measured by calipers and image analysis","authors":"Tianna R. Boyce, Lillian P. Carlyon, Kiro R. Petrovski, Leesa-Joy Dunstan, Bruno RC Alves, Gebremeskel Mamu Werid, Mariana Caetano","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108072","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108072","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Reproductive traits are fundamental phenotypic traits selected to achieve optimal production efficiency. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of four measurements of anogenital distances (AGD; in mm) and compare them with ewe pregnancy status, measured via pregnancy scanning, using data collected from 80 Merino ewes and 80 ewe hoggets. Digital calipers were used to measure AGDs (AC – anus to clitoris, AVV – anus to ventral vulva commissure, AF – anus to fourchette and VV – vulva length) in each sheep twice by three assessors. High-resolution images were taken for each sheep to conduct further measurements of AGD using an image analysis software. The measurements conducted with the image analysis were correlated with the pregnancy status of ewe hoggets for AF (P < 0.002), VV (P < 0.001) and AVV (P < 0.002), but no association was found for AC (P > 0.05). The measurements performed with calipers by three assessors were more variable compared to image analysis, resulting in lower correlations between the first and second measurements taken on the same animal. The relationship found between three AGD measurements (AF, AVV and VV), and pregnancy status in the ewe hoggets, demonstrates the potential to use this trait as an inexpensive method to estimate pregnancy status. The association with pregnancy status, especially in ewe hoggets, could be easily adopted by producers.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"285 ","pages":"Article 108072"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145735625","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}

引用次数: 0

Sperm functional and morphometric differences between Iberian and European ecotypes of capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus L.) 伊比利亚生态型和欧洲生态型的精子功能和形态差异

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-08 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108071

J. Gómez-Delgado , B. Martínez-Madrid , A. Toledano-Díaz , C. Castaño , A. Gómez-Crespo , G. de Pedro Aguilar , D. Cubero , A. Kowalczyk , E. Łukaszewicz , J. Santiago-Moreno

The capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus L.) is a threatened forest bird with distinct Iberian and European ecotypes. This study examines the functional and morphometric differences between the sperm of these ecotypes. In a first experiment, semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, viability, and DNA integrity were assessed in 'Iberian' and 'European' capercaillies, both maintained at breeding centres in Spain. In a second experiment, morphometric traits were measured in Iberian capercaillies maintained at a breeding centre in Spain, and in European capercaillies also maintained at breeding centres in Spain (EmS birds) and in Poland (EmP birds). In the first experiment, the European males produced larger ejaculate volumes (39.80 ± 3.56 µL) than the Iberian males (29.68 ± 4.64 µL). However, the Iberian males returned significantly higher sperm concentrations (501.99 ± 83.90 × 10⁶ spz/mL vs. 77.66 ± 26.09 × 10⁶ spz/mL). In the second experiment, the origin of the birds also affected (P < 0.001) sperm head dimensions. These were smaller in the EmP birds compared to the EmS birds (P < 0.01), and compared to Iberian males (always maintained in Spain) (P < 0.001). Within each of these groups, three sperm subpopulations were identified according to head dimensions, with differences (P < 0.001) between these groups in terms of the proportion of each subpopulation. This is the first comprehensive study of sperm morphometric characteristics in these capercaillie ecotypes. These results may provide critical insights into the reproductive and evolutionary strategies of capercaillies and contribute to improving the success of reproductive technologies across different ecotypes and populations.

capercaillie （Tetrao urogallus L.）是一种濒危的森林鸟类，具有独特的伊比利亚和欧洲生态型。本研究考察了这些生态型精子之间的功能和形态差异。在第一个实验中，对“伊比利亚”和“欧洲”的精子数量、精子浓度、活力、生存能力和DNA完整性进行了评估，这两种精子都保存在西班牙的繁殖中心。在第二个实验中，对饲养在西班牙繁殖中心的伊比利亚和饲养在西班牙（EmS鸟类）和波兰（EmP鸟类）繁殖中心的欧洲的capercailes进行了形态计量学特征测量。在第一个实验中，欧洲雄性的射精量（39.80 ± 3.56 µL）大于伊比利亚雄性（29.68 ± 4.64 µL）。然而，伊比利亚雄鼠返回的精子浓度明显更高（501.99 ± 83.90 × 10⁶spz/mL vs. 77.66 ± 26.09 × 10⁶spz/mL）。在第二个实验中，鸟类的起源也会影响精子头部尺寸（P <； 0.001）。与EmP鸟类相比，EmP鸟类的这些较小（P <； 0.01），与伊比利亚雄性（一直在西班牙饲养）相比（P <； 0.001）。在这些组中，根据头部尺寸确定了三个精子亚群，这些组之间在每个亚群的比例方面存在差异（P <； 0.001）。这是第一次对这些花椒生态型的精子形态特征进行全面研究。这些结果可能为研究长尾虫的繁殖和进化策略提供重要的见解，并有助于提高不同生态型和种群的繁殖技术的成功率。

{"title":"Sperm functional and morphometric differences between Iberian and European ecotypes of capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus L.)","authors":"J. Gómez-Delgado , B. Martínez-Madrid , A. Toledano-Díaz , C. Castaño , A. Gómez-Crespo , G. de Pedro Aguilar , D. Cubero , A. Kowalczyk , E. Łukaszewicz , J. Santiago-Moreno","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108071","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108071","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The capercaillie (<em>Tetrao urogallus</em> L<em>.</em>) is a threatened forest bird with distinct Iberian and European ecotypes. This study examines the functional and morphometric differences between the sperm of these ecotypes. In a first experiment, semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, viability, and DNA integrity were assessed in 'Iberian' and 'European' capercaillies, both maintained at breeding centres in Spain. In a second experiment, morphometric traits were measured in Iberian capercaillies maintained at a breeding centre in Spain, and in European capercaillies also maintained at breeding centres in Spain (EmS birds) and in Poland (EmP birds). In the first experiment, the European males produced larger ejaculate volumes (39.80 ± 3.56 µL) than the Iberian males (29.68 ± 4.64 µL). However, the Iberian males returned significantly higher sperm concentrations (501.99 ± 83.90 × 10⁶ spz/mL vs. 77.66 ± 26.09 × 10⁶ spz/mL). In the second experiment, the origin of the birds also affected (P < 0.001) sperm head dimensions. These were smaller in the EmP birds compared to the EmS birds (P < 0.01), and compared to Iberian males (always maintained in Spain) (P < 0.001). Within each of these groups, three sperm subpopulations were identified according to head dimensions, with differences (P < 0.001) between these groups in terms of the proportion of each subpopulation. This is the first comprehensive study of sperm morphometric characteristics in these capercaillie ecotypes. These results may provide critical insights into the reproductive and evolutionary strategies of capercaillies and contribute to improving the success of reproductive technologies across different ecotypes and populations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"285 ","pages":"Article 108071"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145735571","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}

引用次数: 0

Pharmacological activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling is essential for oocyte developmental competence and enhances in vitro embryo production in water buffalo Wnt/β-catenin信号的药理激活对水牛卵母细胞发育能力和体外胚胎生成至关重要

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-04 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108070

Xiaoya Ma , Haiying Zheng , Anqin Duan , Yingxue Xie , Jinchen Zhou , Jianghua Shang , Chunyan Yang

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is integral to follicular development, yet its precise role in buffalo folliculogenesis remains poorly defined. This study aimed to elucidate its involvement in follicular selection and underlying regulatory mechanisms. Buffalo follicles were classified as dominant or atretic based on the follicular fluid estradiol-to-progesterone (E₂: P₄) ratio. Quantitative PCR revealed significantly elevated expression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway components in the granulosa cells of dominant follicles. Functional experiments demonstrated that pharmacological inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling markedly suppressed both FSH-induced estradiol (E₂) production and oocyte maturation. Conversely, Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation enhanced oocyte maturation, cleavage, and blastocyst formation rates. Further investigation identified AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin cascade as a key mediator of Wnt's positive regulatory role in FSH-supported steroidogenesis. These findings clarify the pivotal role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in buffalo follicular selection and provide a foundational strategy for enhancing the efficiency of in vitro embryo production (IVP) in buffalo breeding programs.

Wnt/β-catenin信号通路是卵泡发育不可或缺的一部分，但其在水牛卵泡发生中的确切作用仍不清楚。本研究旨在阐明其参与卵泡选择及其潜在的调控机制。根据卵泡液雌二醇与黄体酮（E2: P4）的比值将水牛卵泡分为显性卵泡和闭锁卵泡。定量PCR结果显示，优势卵泡颗粒细胞中Wnt/β-catenin通路组分的表达显著升高。功能实验表明，药理抑制Wnt/β-catenin信号传导可显著抑制fsh诱导的雌二醇（E2）产生和卵母细胞成熟。相反，Wnt/β-catenin通路激活可提高卵母细胞成熟、卵裂和囊胚形成率。进一步的研究发现AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin级联是Wnt在fsh支持的类固醇生成中积极调节作用的关键介质。这些发现阐明了Wnt/β-catenin信号在水牛卵泡选择中的关键作用，并为提高水牛体外胚胎生产（IVP）的效率提供了基础策略。

{"title":"Pharmacological activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling is essential for oocyte developmental competence and enhances in vitro embryo production in water buffalo","authors":"Xiaoya Ma , Haiying Zheng , Anqin Duan , Yingxue Xie , Jinchen Zhou , Jianghua Shang , Chunyan Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108070","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108070","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is integral to follicular development, yet its precise role in buffalo folliculogenesis remains poorly defined. This study aimed to elucidate its involvement in follicular selection and underlying regulatory mechanisms. Buffalo follicles were classified as dominant or atretic based on the follicular fluid estradiol-to-progesterone (E<sub>2</sub>: P<sub>4</sub>) ratio. Quantitative PCR revealed significantly elevated expression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway components in the granulosa cells of dominant follicles. Functional experiments demonstrated that pharmacological inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling markedly suppressed both FSH-induced estradiol (E<sub>2</sub>) production and oocyte maturation. Conversely, Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation enhanced oocyte maturation, cleavage, and blastocyst formation rates. Further investigation identified AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin cascade as a key mediator of Wnt's positive regulatory role in FSH-supported steroidogenesis. These findings clarify the pivotal role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in buffalo follicular selection and provide a foundational strategy for enhancing the efficiency of in vitro embryo production (IVP) in buffalo breeding programs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"285 ","pages":"Article 108070"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145697910","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}

引用次数: 0

Influence of sexual maturity on sperm quality in Duroc boars 性成熟对杜洛克公猪精子质量的影响。

IF 3.3 2区农林科学 Q1 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Animal Reproduction Science

Pub Date : 2025-12-02 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108053

Soudabeh Rouzbehani , Asmita Shrestha , Nazia Haque , Syeda Afsana Nushrat , Teklu Tewoldebrhan Zeremichael , Anna Nordborg , Ann Helen Gaustad , Anne Hege Alm-Kristiansen

The objective of this study was to evaluate sperm quality of Duroc boars during sexual maturation and examine whether these parameters were related to metabolites in semen. Ejaculates were collected longitudinally from 28 Duroc boars at approximately 7 months of age (Age 1), 6 weeks later (Age 2) and 12 weeks later (Age 3). Motility characteristics, acrosome integrity, and viability were assessed on collection day and after five days storage at 18°C using computer-assisted sperm analysis and flow cytometry, while DNA fragmentation was measured on day five. Amino acid and amine concentrations in semen were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and correlated with sperm quality parameters. Motility, rapid progressive motility, and acrosome intact live sperm increased significantly (adj P < 0.05) with boar maturation. Mature boars (Age 2 and Age 3) maintained superior sperm quality compared to younger boars after storage. The DNA fragmentation index was low in all samples but declined significantly from 1 % at Age 1 to 0.64 % at Age 3 (adj P < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed significant relationships between sperm quality and specific metabolites. Cystine, glutamate, aspartate, choline and taurine were inversely correlated with progressive and rapid progressive motility, while showing positive correlation with rapid non-progressive motility. These findings demonstrate that sperm quality continues improving beyond initial reproductive ability, especially between Age 1 and Age 3, with improvements in motility, viability, chromatin stability, and storage resilience. The observed relationships between metabolites and sperm quality parameters provide insights into biochemical mechanisms underlying sperm functionality during sexual maturation.

本研究的目的是评价杜洛克公猪性成熟期间的精子质量，并探讨这些参数是否与精液中的代谢物有关。28头杜洛克公猪分别在大约7月龄（1岁）、6周（2岁）和12周（3岁）时纵向采集射精。在采集当天和18°C保存5天后，使用计算机辅助精子分析和流式细胞术评估运动特性、顶体完整性和活力，并在第5天测量DNA片段。采用液相色谱-质谱法测定精液中氨基酸和胺的浓度，并与精子质量参数进行相关性分析。活力、快速进行性活力和顶体完整活精子显著增加（P < 0.05）

{"title":"Influence of sexual maturity on sperm quality in Duroc boars","authors":"Soudabeh Rouzbehani , Asmita Shrestha , Nazia Haque , Syeda Afsana Nushrat , Teklu Tewoldebrhan Zeremichael , Anna Nordborg , Ann Helen Gaustad , Anne Hege Alm-Kristiansen","doi":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108053","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.anireprosci.2025.108053","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The objective of this study was to evaluate sperm quality of Duroc boars during sexual maturation and examine whether these parameters were related to metabolites in semen. Ejaculates were collected longitudinally from 28 Duroc boars at approximately 7 months of age (Age 1), 6 weeks later (Age 2) and 12 weeks later (Age 3). Motility characteristics, acrosome integrity, and viability were assessed on collection day and after five days storage at 18°C using computer-assisted sperm analysis and flow cytometry, while DNA fragmentation was measured on day five. Amino acid and amine concentrations in semen were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and correlated with sperm quality parameters. Motility, rapid progressive motility, and acrosome intact live sperm increased significantly (adj <em>P</em> < 0.05) with boar maturation. Mature boars (Age 2 and Age 3) maintained superior sperm quality compared to younger boars after storage. The DNA fragmentation index was low in all samples but declined significantly from 1 % at Age 1 to 0.64 % at Age 3 (adj <em>P</em> < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed significant relationships between sperm quality and specific metabolites. Cystine, glutamate, aspartate, choline and taurine were inversely correlated with progressive and rapid progressive motility, while showing positive correlation with rapid non-progressive motility. These findings demonstrate that sperm quality continues improving beyond initial reproductive ability, especially between Age 1 and Age 3, with improvements in motility, viability, chromatin stability, and storage resilience. The observed relationships between metabolites and sperm quality parameters provide insights into biochemical mechanisms underlying sperm functionality during sexual maturation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7880,"journal":{"name":"Animal Reproduction Science","volume":"284 ","pages":"Article 108053"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-12-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145676201","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}

引用次数: 0