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RESEARCH ARTICLE

The evolution of improved and simplified superovulation protocols in cattle

Reuben J. Mapletoft A C and Gabriel A. Bó B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada.

B Instituto de Reproducción Animal Córdoba (IRAC), Paraje Pozo del Tigre, Estación General Paz, CP: 5145, Córdoba, Argentina.

C Corresponding author. Email: reuben.mapletoft@usask.ca

Reproduction, Fertility and Development 24(1) 278-283 https://doi.org/10.1071/RD11919
Published: 6 November 2011

Abstract

Superovulation protocols have improved greatly since the early days of bovine embryo transfer when purified gonadotrophins were not available, follicular wave dynamics were unknown physiological phenomena and prostaglandins were not available. Although superstimulatory protocols in cattle are normally initiated mid-cycle, elective control of follicular wave emergence and ovulation have had a great impact on the application of on-farm embryo transfer. However, the most common treatment for the synchronisation of follicular wave emergence involves the use of oestradiol, which cannot be used in many parts of the world. Therefore, the need for alternative treatments has driven recent research. An approach that has shown promise is to initiate follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) treatments at the time of the emergence of the new follicular wave following ovulation induced by gonadotrophin-releasing hormone. Alternatively, it has been shown that it may be possible to ignore follicular wave status and, by extending the treatment protocol, induce subordinate follicles to superovulate. Finally, the short half-life of pituitary FSH necessitates twice-daily treatments, which are time-consuming, stressful and subject to error. Recent treatment protocols have permitted superstimulation with a single FSH treatment or two treatments 48 h apart, reducing the need for animal handling during gonadotrophin treatments.

Additional keywords: cow, embryo transfer, follicle wave, gonadotrophin, superstimulation.


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