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Animals
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Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science
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Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Animal Reproduction".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 October 2024) | Viewed by 18341

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Levente Kovács

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Animal Sciences, Hungarian University of Agricultural and Life Sciences, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary
Interests: animal welfare; reproduction; cattle
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Reproduction techniques are becoming increasingly important and necessary in animal breeding today. Modern assisted reproductive techniques ensure safe and efficient breeding programs. These techniques currently have varying degrees of efficiency, and for most of them, continuous improvements may be expected in the future. Despite the well-known limitations and potential margins for progress, significant work in the past 15 years to improve oocyte collection and in vitro embryo production systems has made those systems practically useful by the most advanced breeding companies. The emergence of new methods for genomic selection makes all improvements related to embryo production in vivo or in vitro and associated techniques attractive to animal breeding willing to exploit as much as possible the advantages of genomic selection. In this Special Issue, papers on all aspects of the methodology, efficiency or animal welfare/stress, and ethical concerns of reproductive technics are welcome with novelty and high impact on animal science. Both original papers and review articles are encouraged.

Dr. Levente Kovács
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • reproductive technologies
  • in vitro fertilization
  • genomic selection
  • oocytes
  • MOET
  • ovum-pick-up
  • animal welfare

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

18 pages, 3749 KiB  
Article
Crude Garden Cress Seed Oil (Lepidium sativum Linn.) Enhances Post-Thawed Boar Sperm Quality
by Vassakorn Khophloiklang, Panida Chanapiwat and Kampon Kaeoket
Animals 2024, 14(22), 3178; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14223178 - 6 Nov 2024
Viewed by 552
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the effects of crude garden cress seed oil (CGCSO) on frozen–thawed boar sperm qualities. Semen ejaculates (n = 12) were collected and further divided into six equal aliquots based on CGCSO concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, [...] Read more.
This study aimed to examine the effects of crude garden cress seed oil (CGCSO) on frozen–thawed boar sperm qualities. Semen ejaculates (n = 12) were collected and further divided into six equal aliquots based on CGCSO concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5% v/v) in the freezing extender. Semen samples were processed and cryopreserved utilizing the traditional liquid nitrogen vapor technique. Subsequently, semen samples were thawed in a thermos with warm water at 50 °C for 12 s and evaluated for sperm morphology using scanning electron microscopy, sperm motility using a CASA, sperm viability, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial function, MDA level, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) activity. The results indicated that 1% CGCSO resulted in superior post-thaw sperm characteristics, including enhanced sperm morphology, motility, viability, acrosome integrity, and mitochondrial function. Particularly, the total motile sperm increased by 16.5%, progressive motile sperm increased by 13.0%, viability improved by 15.1%, acrosome integrity increased by 14%, and mitochondrial function improved by 14.1% compared to the control group. CGCSO treatment at 1% and 1.5% exhibited the lowest level of MDA (45.73 ± 11.2 and 45.73 ± 11.3 µmol/L, respectively) compared to the other groups. The CGCSO-supplemented groups showed higher values of TAC, GSH-Px, and CAT than the control group but not significantly. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science)
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15 pages, 2400 KiB  
Article
The Simulated Physiological Oocyte Maturation (SPOM) System Enhances Cytoplasmic Maturation and Oocyte Competence in Cattle
by Micaela Navarro, Tomás Fanti, Nicolas Matias Ortega, Magalí Waremkraut, Francisco Guaimas, Adrian Ángel Mutto and Carolina Blüguermann
Animals 2024, 14(13), 1893; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14131893 - 27 Jun 2024
Viewed by 967
Abstract
In vitro embryo production is a widely applied technique that allows the expansion of genetics and accelerated breeding programs. However, in cattle, this technique still needs improvement in order to reach quality and pregnancy rates comparable to in vivo-derived embryos. One of the [...] Read more.
In vitro embryo production is a widely applied technique that allows the expansion of genetics and accelerated breeding programs. However, in cattle, this technique still needs improvement in order to reach quality and pregnancy rates comparable to in vivo-derived embryos. One of the limitations of this technique is related to in vitro maturation, where a heterogeneous population of oocytes is harvested from follicles and cultured in vitro in the presence of gonadotropic hormones to induce maturation. As a result, oocytes with different degrees of competence are obtained, resulting in a decrease in the quality and quantity of embryos obtained. A novel system based on the use of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) modulators was developed to enhance bovine oocyte competence, although controversial results were obtained depending on the in vitro embryo production (IVP) system used in each laboratory. Thus, in the present work, we employed a reported cAMP protocol named Simulated Physiological Oocyte Maturation (SPOM) under our IVP system and analysed its effect on cytoplasmic maturation by measuring levels of stress-related genes and evaluating the activity and distribution of mitochondria as a marker for cytoplasmic maturation Moreover, we studied the effect of the cAMP treatment on nuclear maturation, cleavage, and blastocyst formation. Finally, we assessed the embryo quality by determining the hatching rates, total cell number per blastocyst, cryopreservation tolerance, and embryo implantation. We found that maturing oocytes in the presence of cAMP modulators did not affect nuclear maturation, although they changed the dynamic pattern of mitochondrial activity along maturation. Additionally, we found that oocytes subjected to cAMP modulators significantly improved blastocyst formation (15.5% vs. 22.2%, p < 0.05). Blastocysts derived from cAMP-treated oocytes did not improve cryopreservation tolerance but showed an increased hatching rate, a higher total cell number per blastocyst and, when transferred to hormonally synchronised recipients, produced pregnancies. These results reflect that the use of cAMP modulators during IVM results in competent oocytes that, after fertilisation, can develop in more blastocysts with a better quality than standard IVM conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science)
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13 pages, 2592 KiB  
Article
Potential of Circulating miRNA Biomarkers and Exosomes for Early Pregnancy Diagnoses in Cattle
by Chiaki Ninomiya, Hitomi Yoshino, Toshina Ishiguro-Oonuma, Kosuke Iga, Tomomi Kanazawa, Toru Takahashi and Keiichiro Kizaki
Animals 2024, 14(11), 1592; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111592 - 28 May 2024
Viewed by 954
Abstract
Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) were investigated as biomarkers for the diagnosis of early pregnancy in cattle. The levels of prospective miRNA biomarkers and the features of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the blood were evaluated. In Study 1, plasma samples from cows 21 days after [...] Read more.
Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) were investigated as biomarkers for the diagnosis of early pregnancy in cattle. The levels of prospective miRNA biomarkers and the features of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the blood were evaluated. In Study 1, plasma samples from cows 21 days after artificial insemination (AI) were examined using RT-qPCR to determine the levels of seven circulating miRNAs. Only the levels of miR-126-3p were significantly lower in the pregnant group than in the non-pregnant group. In Study 2, among individuals not pregnant at the first AI, the miRNA levels were compared between the individuals pregnant at the second AI and those who remained non-pregnant. The miR-25 levels were significantly higher in the pregnant group at the second AI than in the pregnant group at the first AI; miR-19b, miR-27b, and miR-29a levels were also high. In the non-pregnant group, changes were absent in the miRNA levels in the same individual between the first and second AIs. In Study 3, Western blotting and RT-qPCR showed the presence of miRNAs in EVs and their levels were lower than in plasma. Thus, circulating miR-126-3p may serve as a biomarker for the diagnosis of early pregnancy in cattle. In addition, the expression of some miRNAs tended to be higher during pregnancy than during non-pregnancy in the same individual, suggesting their potential as an index to determine pregnancy and non-pregnancy rates using a comparative method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science)
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9 pages, 463 KiB  
Article
A 3D-Printed Large Holding Capacity Device for Minimum Volume Cooling Vitrification of Embryos in Prolific Livestock Species
by Francisco Marco-Jiménez, Ximo Garcia-Dominguez, Luís García-Valero and José S. Vicente
Animals 2023, 13(5), 791; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13050791 - 22 Feb 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1658
Abstract
Although many devices have been developed to reduce sample volume, with an explosion of methods appearing in the literature over the last decade, commercially available devices with simultaneous vitrification of a larger number of embryos are scarce, with the apparent gap for their [...] Read more.
Although many devices have been developed to reduce sample volume, with an explosion of methods appearing in the literature over the last decade, commercially available devices with simultaneous vitrification of a larger number of embryos are scarce, with the apparent gap for their use in prolific livestock species. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of a new three-dimensional (3D)-printed device that combines minimum volume cooling vitrification with simultaneous vitrification of a larger number of rabbit embryos. Late morulae/early blastocysts were vitrified with the open Cryoeyelet® device (n = 175; 25 embryos per device), the open Cryotop® device (n = 175; 10 embryos per device), and the traditional closed French mini-straw device (n = 125; 25 embryos per straw) and compared in terms of in vitro development and reproductive performance after transfer to adoptive mothers. Fresh embryos constituted the control group (n = 125). In experiment 1, there was no difference in the development rate to the blastocyst hatching stage between the CryoEyelet® and the other devices. In experiment 2, the CryoEyelet® device showed a higher implantation rate compared with the Cryotop® (6.3% unit of SD, p = 0.87) and French mini-straw® (16.8% unit of SD, p = 1.00) devices. In terms of offspring rate, the CryoEyelet® device was similar to the Cryotop® device but superior to the French straw device. Regarding embryonic and fetal losses, the CryoEyelet® showed lower embryonic losses compared to other vitrification devices. The analysis of bodyweight showed that all devices showed a similar outcomes—a higher birthweight but a lower body weight at puberty than those in the fresh transfer embryos group. In summary, the CryoEyelet® device can be used for the vitrification of many late morulae or early blastocyst stage rabbit embryos per device. Further studies should be performed to evaluate the CryoEyelet® device in other polytocous species for the simultaneous vitrification of a large number of embryos. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science)
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Review

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26 pages, 694 KiB  
Review
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) and Its Agonists in Bovine Reproduction II: Diverse Applications during Insemination, Post-Insemination, Pregnancy, and Postpartum Periods
by Eman M. Hassanein, Zoltán Szelényi and Ottó Szenci
Animals 2024, 14(11), 1575; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111575 - 26 May 2024
Viewed by 3071
Abstract
The administration of GnRH and its agonists benefits various aspects of bovine reproductive programs, encompassing physiological stages such as estrous synchronization, post-insemination, pregnancy, and the postpartum period. The positive impact of GnRH administration in overcoming challenges like repeat breeder cows, early embryonic loss [...] Read more.
The administration of GnRH and its agonists benefits various aspects of bovine reproductive programs, encompassing physiological stages such as estrous synchronization, post-insemination, pregnancy, and the postpartum period. The positive impact of GnRH administration in overcoming challenges like repeat breeder cows, early embryonic loss prevention, and the management of cystic ovarian disease (COD) is thoroughly surveyed. Furthermore, this review focuses on the significance of GnRH administration during the postpartum period, its role in ovulation induction, and how it enhances the productivity of embryo transfer (ET) programs. An emerging feature of this field is introduced, focusing on nano-drug delivery systems for GnRH agonists, and the potential benefits that may arise from such advancements are highlighted. While this review offers valuable insights into various applications of GnRH in bovine reproduction, it emphasizes the crucial need for further research and development in this field to advance reproductive efficiency and health management in dairy cattle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science)
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23 pages, 3186 KiB  
Review
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) and Its Agonists in Bovine Reproduction I: Structure, Biosynthesis, Physiological Effects, and Its Role in Estrous Synchronization
by Eman M. Hassanein, Zoltán Szelényi and Ottó Szenci
Animals 2024, 14(10), 1473; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14101473 - 15 May 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3342
Abstract
GnRH is essential for the regulation of mammalian reproductive processes. It regulates the production and release of pituitary gonadotropins, thereby influencing steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. While primarily produced in the hypothalamus, GnRH is also produced in peripheral organs, such as the gonads and placenta. [...] Read more.
GnRH is essential for the regulation of mammalian reproductive processes. It regulates the production and release of pituitary gonadotropins, thereby influencing steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. While primarily produced in the hypothalamus, GnRH is also produced in peripheral organs, such as the gonads and placenta. GnRH analogs, including agonists and antagonists, have been synthesized for the reproductive management of animals and humans. This review focuses on the functions of hypothalamic GnRH in the reproductive processes of cattle. In addition to inducing the surge release of LH, the pulsatile secretion of GnRH stimulates the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH, thereby regulating gonadal function. Various GnRH-based products have been synthesized to increase their potency and efficacy in regulating reproductive functions. This review article describes the chemical structures of GnRH and its agonists. This discussion extends to the gene expression of GnRH in the hypothalamus, highlighting its pivotal role in regulating the reproductive process. Furthermore, GnRH is involved in regulating ovarian follicular development and luteal phase support, and estrus synchronization is involved. A comprehensive understanding of the role of GnRH and its analogs in the modulation of reproductive processes is essential for optimizing animal reproduction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science)
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11 pages, 843 KiB  
Review
Noninfectious Causes of Pregnancy Loss at the Late Embryonic/Early Fetal Stage in Dairy Cattle
by Zoltán Szelényi, Ottó Szenci, Szilárd Bodó and Levente Kovács
Animals 2023, 13(21), 3390; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13213390 - 1 Nov 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2259
Abstract
In cattle, initial pregnancy diagnosis takes place during the late embryonic/early fetal stage of gestation. From this point onward, pregnancy loss may occur in up to one fifth of pregnancies before the initial pregnancy diagnosis is confirmed. This means the early identification of [...] Read more.
In cattle, initial pregnancy diagnosis takes place during the late embryonic/early fetal stage of gestation. From this point onward, pregnancy loss may occur in up to one fifth of pregnancies before the initial pregnancy diagnosis is confirmed. This means the early identification of risk factors is a key part of pregnancy diagnosis and herd management. The various factors responsible for pregnancy losses are classified into infectious and noninfectious. Among the noninfectious causes, several dam-related (circumstances of the individual pregnancy or milk production) and herd-related factors causing stress have been well established. In this review, we summarize the impacts of these noninfectious factors and predict associated risks of pregnancy loss. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science)
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13 pages, 1247 KiB  
Review
Infrared Thermography as a Potential Non-Invasive Tool for Estrus Detection in Cattle and Buffaloes
by Umair Riaz, Musadiq Idris, Mehboob Ahmed, Farah Ali and Liguo Yang
Animals 2023, 13(8), 1425; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13081425 - 21 Apr 2023
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3950
Abstract
The productivity of dairy animals has significantly increased over the past few decades due to intense genetic selection. However, the enhanced yield performance of milk animals caused a proportional increase in stress and compromised reproductive efficiency. Optimal reproductive performance is mandatory for the [...] Read more.
The productivity of dairy animals has significantly increased over the past few decades due to intense genetic selection. However, the enhanced yield performance of milk animals caused a proportional increase in stress and compromised reproductive efficiency. Optimal reproductive performance is mandatory for the sustainable production of dairy animals. Reproductive efficiency is marked by proper estrus detection and precise breeding to achieve maximum pregnancies. The existing conventional methods of estrus detection are somewhat labor intensive and less efficient. Similarly, the modern automated methods that rely on detecting physical activity are expensive, and their efficiency is affected by factors such as type of housing (tie stall), flooring, and environment. Infrared thermography has recently emerged as a technique that does not depend on monitoring physical activity. Furthermore, infrared thermography is a non-invasive, user-friendly, and stress-free option that aids in the detection of estrus in dairy animals. Infrared thermography has the potential to be considered a useful non-invasive tool for detecting temperature fluctuations to generate estrus alerts without physical contact in cattle and buffaloes. This manuscript highlights the potential use of infrared thermography to understand reproductive physiology and practical implementation of this technique through discussing its advantages, limitations, and possible precautions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Livestock Reproduction: Reproductive Technologies in Animal Science)
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