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BIOTECHNOLOGIES APPLIED
TO ANIMAL REPRODUCTION
Current Trends and Practical Applications
for Reproductive Management

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BIOTECHNOLOGIES APPLIED
TO ANIMAL REPRODUCTION
Current Trends and Practical Applications
for Reproductive Management
Author Copy
Edited by
Juan Carlos Gardón, MSc, PhD
Katy Satué, MSc, PhD

First edition published [2021]
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Library and Archives Canada Cataloguing in Publication
Title: Biotechnologies applied to animal reproduction : current trends and practical applications for reproductive
management / edited by Juan Carlos Gardón, PhD, Katy Satué, PhD.
Names: Gardón, Juan Carlos, editor. | Satué, Katy, editor.
Description: Includes bibliographical references and index.
Identifiers: Canadiana (print) 20200256092 | Canadiana (ebook) 20200256408 | ISBN 9781771888714 (hardcover) |
ISBN 9780367817527 (ebook)
Subjects: LCSH: Livestock—Reproduction. | LCSH: Livestock—Breeding. | LCSH: Reproductive technology.
Classification: LCC SF871 .B56 2021 | DDC 636.08/24—dc23
Library of Congress Cataloging‑in‑Publication Data
Names: Gardón, Juan Carlos, editor. | Satué, Katy, 1958- editor.
Title: Biotechnologies applied to animal reproduction : current trends and practical applications for reproductive
management / edited by Juan Carlos Gardón, Katy Satué.
Description: Palm Bay, Florida : Apple Academic Press, Inc. [2021] | Includes bibliographical references and index. |
Summary: “This comprehensive volume focuses on recent trends and new technologies used in the management of
reproduction in major farm animals, focusing on both males and females of bovine, equine and porcine species. With
chapters written by scientists who specialize in their respective topics, the volume presents a selection of different
technologies that have been developed to assure reproductive success by improving reproductive efficiency, generating
germplasm banks, and maintaining genetic diversity in cattle, horses, and pigs. In the last decade, reproductive
technologies in veterinary medicine have progressed considerably, providing high profitability to livestock farms. This
book provides basic and applied information on the most used reproductive technologies in bovine, equine, and porcine
species for academics, scientists, and veterinarians. The volume discusses reproductive and postpartum management,
reproductive ultrasound, sperm management, egg retrieval, artificial insemination, embryo transfer, nutrition, genetics,
and certain clinical aspects, such as endocrinology and robustness of reproductive systems. Biotechnologies Applied
to Animal Reproduction: Current Trends and Practical Applications for Reproductive Management is the culmination
of the efforts of several researchers and scientists from around the world who are well known and respected in their
different frontiers of research in reproductive biotechnology”-- Provided by publisher.
Identifiers: LCCN 2020023857 (print) | LCCN 2020023858 (ebook) | ISBN 9781771888714 (hardcover) |
ISBN 9780367817527 (ebook)
Subjects: MESH: Reproductive Techniques, Assisted--veterinary | Cattle | Horses | Sus scrofa
Classification: LCC SF201.5 (print) | LCC SF201.5 (ebook) | NLM SF 201.5 | DDC 636.2/08245--dc23
LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2020023857
LC ebook record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2020023858
ISBN: 978-1-77188-871-4 (hbk)
ISBN: 978-0-36781-752-7 (ebk)

About the Editors
Juan Carlos Gardón, MSc, PhD

Juan Carlos Gardón, PhD, is currently working as a professor in the
Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary and
Experimental Sciences of the Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente
Mártir (UCV), Valencia, Spain. He also participates in academic post-
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graduate activities at the Veterinary Faculty of Murcia University, Spain.
Since 2018, Dr. Gardón has been the Director of the UCV Veterinary
Farm. He has over 30 years of teaching and research experience. He is
the author of eight book chapters and has published around 200 research
papers in national and international journals and conference proceedings.
He has participated as principal researcher in 12 R+D projects and in the
organization of seven national and international scientific events. His main
research interests include animal physiology, physiology and biotech-
nology of reproduction either in males or females, the study of gametes
under in vitro conditions, and the use of ultrasound as a complement to
physiological studies and development of applied biotechnologies. He
regularly supervises students in preparing their PhD and master theses or
in final degree projects.
Katy Satué, MSc, PhD

Katy Satué, PhD, is a professor in the Department of Animal Medicine and
Surgery at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the CEU-Cardinal Herrera
University, Valencia, Spain. She teaches courses in general pathology,
integrated in the module of applied bases of the equine veterinary clinic
for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th years of the degree program in veterinary sciences.
Her research activity is focused in the field of hematology, biochemistry,
immunology, and fundamentally in equine endocrinology in pregnant
Spanish purebreed mares. Dr. Satué has directed five PhD theses and five
Certificates of Advanced Studies, has participated in 10 research projects as
a collaborating researcher, and has written two books and 14 book chapters
published by international publishing houses related to her research areas.
She has written 70 scientific publications in international journals and

vi About the Editors
has attended 70 international congresses, participating with more than

125 communications. She is also a scientific reviewer for several indexed
international journals (American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound,

and others). Since 2014, she has been responsible for the Clinical Analysis
Laboratory of the Veterinary Clinical Hospital of CEUCardinal Herrera
University. She is also an honorary member of the Peloritan Academy of
Pericolanti since February 2018.
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Contents
Contributors.................................................................................................. ix
Abbreviations................................................................................................ xi
Preface..........................................................................................................xv
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Introduction................................................................................................ xvii
Foreword..................................................................................................... xix
SECTION I: Bovine............................................................................................. 1
1. Bovine Reproductive Management............................................................ 3
José Javier De La Mata and Gabriel Amilcar Bó
2. Ultrasonography in Bovine Gynecology.................................................. 21

Giovanni Gnemmi, Juan Carlos Gardón, and Cristina Maraboli
3. Ultrasonography of the Bovine Reproductive System:

Ultrasound Management of the Male Reproductive System................. 41
4. Postpartum Management in Dairy Cows................................................ 69

5. Reproductive Efficiency in Dairy Cows: Change in Trends!.................. 87
Ana Heras-Molina, José Luis Pesantez Pacheco, and Susana Astiz
6. Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) in Cattle: An Update......................................... 139

Salvador Ruiz López
SECTION II: Equine....................................................................................... 185

7. Clinical Endocrinology of Pregnant Mares........................................... 187
Katy Satué and María Marcilla
8. Equine Semen Preservation: Current and Future Trends...................... 227

Lydia Gil Huerta, Cristina Álvarez, and Victoria Luño Lázaro

viii Contents
9. The Journey of the Porcine Spermatozoa from Its Origin to the

Fertilization Site: The Road In Vivo vs. In Vitro..................................... 247
Cristina Soriano-Úbeda, Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez, and Carmen Matás
10. Reproductive Biotechnologies Applied to Artificial

Insemination in Swine............................................................................. 283
Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez, Chiara Luongo, Gabriela Garrappa, and
Ernesto Rodríguez Tobón
Index.................................................................................................................. 325
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Contributors
Cristina Álvarez
Chief Veterinary Officer of the Veterinary Unit, Zaragoza, Spain
Susana Astiz
Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA, Avda Pta. de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Gabriel Amilcar Bó
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Institute A.P. of Basic and Applied Sciences, National University of Villa María,
Villa del Rosario, Córdoba, Argentina
Animal Reproduction Institute Córdoba (IRAC), Pozo del Tigre, Córdoba, Argentina
José Javier de la Mata

Bovine Reproduction and Biotechnology-Veterinary Services, Santa Rosa, La Pampa, Argentina
Cathedra of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Agronomy,
National University of La Pampa, Santa Rosa, La Pampa, Argentina
Institute A.P. of Basic and Applied Sciences, National University of Villa María,
Villa del Rosario, Córdoba, Argentina
Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez

Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, International Excellence Campus for
Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
Juan Carlos Gardón

Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary and Experimental Sciences
Catholic University of Valencia, San Vincente Mártir, Spain
Gabriela Garrappa
Institute of Animal Research of the Semi-Arid Chaco (IIACS), Agricultural Research Center (CIAP),
National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA), Tucumán, Argentina
Lydia Gil Huerta

Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agroalimentary Institute of
Aragón IA2, University of Zaragoza, Center for Agrifood Research and Technology (CITA),
Zaragoza, C/Miguel Servet 133, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
Giovanni Gnemmi
Bovinevet Internacional, Bovine Ultrasound Services and Herd Management, Calle de la Mecanica,
9, Huesca, 22006, Huesca, Spain
Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary and Experimental Sciences
Catholic University of Valencia, San Vincente Mártir, Spain
Ana Heras-Molina

x Contributors
Victoria Luño Lázaro

Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agroalimentary Institute of
Aragón IA2, University of Zaragoza, Center for Agrifood Research and Technology (CITA),
Zaragoza, C/Miguel Servet 133, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
Chiara Luongo
Cristina Maraboli
Bovinevet Internacional, Bovine Ultrasound Services and Herd Management,
Calle de la Mecanica, 9, Huesca, 22006, Huesca, Spain
María Marcilla
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Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary, University CEU-Cardenal
Herrera, Valencia, Alfara del Patriarca, Tirant lo Blanc, 46115 Valencia, Spain
Carmen Matás
Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia,
Spain Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
José Luis Pesantez Pacheco

School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences,
University of Cuenca, Avda. Doce de Octubre, Cuenca, Ecuador
Ernesto Rodríguez Tobón

Salvador Ruiz López

Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
Katy Satué
Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary, University CEU-Cardenal
Herrera, Valencia, Alfara del Patriarca, Tirant lo Blanc, 46115 Valencia, Spain
Cristina Soriano-Úbeda
Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia,
Spain Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain

Abbreviations
ADG average daily gain

AETE Association of Embryo Technology in Europe
AFP antral follicle population
AI artificial insemination
AIJ ampullary-isthmic junction
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AI-NS fixed time artificial insemination-natural service
AMH anti-Müllerian hormone
AR acrosome reaction
ARTs assisted reproductive technologies
BCS body condition score
BHB β-hydroxybutyrate
BO Brackett-Oliphant solution
BS breeding season
BSE breeding soundness evaluation
BTB blood–testis barrier
CAI cervical artificial insemination
CASA computerized assisted sperm analysis
CIDR progesterone-releasing intravaginal device
CL corpus luteum
COCs cumulus oocyte complexes
COX2 cyclooxygenase 2
DHA dihydroandrosterone
DHEA dehydroepiandrosterone
DIM days in milk
DO double ovsynch
DpCAI deep cervical artificial insemination
DRF dominant follicle removal
DUI deep intrauterine insemination
EB estradiol benzoate
eCG equine chorionic gonadotrophin
ED embryonic death
EDTA ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid
EGF epidermal growth factor

xii Abbreviations
EGTA ethylene glycol-bis (2-aminoethyl ether) -

N, N, N’N’-tetraacetic acid
EPL early pregnancy loss
EU European Union
FF follicular fluid
FPU fetoplacental unit
FSH follicle-stimulating hormone
FTAI fixed-time artificial insemination
GABA gamma-aminobutyric acid
GAS gene assisted selection
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GnRH gonadotropin-releasing hormone
GT genital tubercle
hCG human chorionic gonadotropin
HD heat detection
HOST hypo-osmotic swelling test
HPG hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal
ICSI intracytoplasmic sperm injection
IETS International Embryo Transfer Society
IFN interferon
ITM inorganic trace minerals
IVD in vivo derived
IVEP in vitro embryo production
IVF in vitro fertilization
IVM in vitro maturation
IVP in vitro produced
LH luteinizing hormone
L-OPU laparoscopic procedure of oocyte collection
LOS large offspring syndrome
MAP multiple angle sector
MAS marker assisted selection
MGR maternal recognition of pregnancy
MOET multiple ovulation and embryo transfer
NEB negative energy balance
NPD nonpregnancy diagnosis
NS natural service
NSAIDs nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
OEC oviductal (isthmus) epithelial cell
OECs oviductal epithelial cells

Abbreviations xiii
OF oviductal fluid
o-FSH ovine FSH
OIE World Organization for Animal Health
ONS only natural service

OPU ovum pick-up
P/AI pregnancy per artificial insemination
P4 progesterone
P5 pregnenolone
P5ββ 5-pregnene-3β,20β–diol
PAGS pregnancy-associated glycoproteins
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pAI porcine artificial insemination
PCAI post-cervical artificial insemination
p-FSH porcine FSH
PGDH 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase
PGE2 prostaglandin E2
PGF2α prostaglandin F2α
PGFM 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2α
PGs prostaglandins
PLGF placental growth factor
PMN polymorphonuclear granulocytes
PMSG pregnant mare serum gonadotropin
PS presynch protocol
PS presynch protocol
QTL quantitative trait loci
ROS reactive oxygen species
RR recovery rate
RTS reproductive tract scoring
sAC soluble adenyl cyclase
SCNT somatic cell nuclear transfer
SLC single layer centrifugation
SNP single nucleotide polymorphisms
SP seminal plasma
SR sperm reservoir
TAI timed artificial insemination
TBM tris-buffered medium
TGF-β transforming growth factor-β
TNB timed natural breeding
Tyr-P tyrosine phosphorylation

xiv Abbreviations
UECs uterine epithelial cells

UF uterine fluid
UTJ utero-tubal junction
VEGF vascular endothelium growth factor

VWP voluntary waiting period
ZP zona pellucida
βα-diol 5α-pregnane-3β,20α-diol
ββ-diol 5α-pregnane-3β,20β-diol
20α5P 20α-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-3-one
3β5P 3β-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-3-one
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3β-HSD 3β-hydroxideshydrogenase
5αDHP 5α-pregnane-3,20-dione

Preface
We are aware that in the last decade reproductive technologies in veterinary

medicine have progressed considerably, providing high profitability to
livestock farms. This book aims to provide basic and applied information
on the most used reproductive technologies in bovine, equine, and porcine
species for academics, scientists, and veterinarians dedicated to reproduc-
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tive clinics. This work contains three main sections for each animal species
and covers a wide range of applications of biotechnology in animal repro-
duction. Therefore, the motivation for editing a comprehensive volume
on advances in biotechnology arose from a growing awareness of recent
advances in reproductive and postpartum management, reproductive ultra-
sound, sperm management, egg retrieval, artificial insemination, embryo
transfer, and certain clinical aspects, such as endocrinology and robustness
of reproductive systems. The authors are recognized researchers from
several countries who, beyond the theoretical foundations, have a deep
practical knowledge of the topics dealt with in this work.
This volume is the culmination of the efforts of several researchers
and scientific fellows from around the world, and they are all known and
respected at different frontiers of research in reproductive biotechnology.
We sincerely believe that the book will prove to be a useful contribution
not only to science, but also to the general public interest.
We express our gratitude to all the contributing authors and to all the
members of the international review panel who helped us enormously with
their contributions, time, critical thoughts, and suggestions to produce this
peer-reviewed and edited volume.
The editors also thank Apple Academic Press and its team members for
the opportunity to publish this book.
Finally, we thank our family members for their love, support, encourage-
ment, and patience throughout the period of this work.


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Introduction
Reproductive success is a very important goal for those species destined

for production, for sports, as pets, and wild animals. As a result, knowledge
of the physiology and pathology of the male and female reproductive
systems, obstetrics, gynecology, and andrology is expanding considerably
every day. For this reason, over the years numerous interesting works
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have been carried out to clarify, resolve, or explain several aspects of
reproduction in different animal species. In this way, different reproductive
biotechnologies have been developed for both males and females in order
to improve reproductive efficiency, generate germplasm banks, maintain
genetic diversity, or to use them as animal models for human reproduction.
In this book we present a series of chapters dedicated to males and
females of bovine, equine, and porcine cattle in which, in the last years,
different technologies have been developed to assure reproductive success
every time. We also present the most relevant topics of each of them,
carrying out a detailed review of the knowledge communicated to the
present time.


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Foreword
Domestication of farm animals started 12,000–15,000 years ago in the

Middle East and was a seminal achievement in human development
during which agriculture as it is known today gradually emerged. Initially,
domesticated animals were selected according to phenotype and/or specific
traits adapted to a local climate and production system. The science-based
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breeding systems used today originated with the introduction of statistical
methods in the 16th century, which made possible a quantitative approach
to selective breeding for specific traits. Now, with the availability of
accurate and reliable DNA analysis, this quantitative approach has been
extended to DNA-based breeding concepts that allow a more cost-effective
but still quantitative determination of a genomic breeding value (GBV) for
individual animals. The accurate and reliable prediction of genetic traits
made possible from this introduction revolutionized breeding practices
and, together with advances in DNA technology, ultimately led to the
quantitative molecular genetic selection procedures used today.
The impact of these developments is critically dependent upon the intro-
duction of reproductive technologies that can greatly extend the genetic
influence of superior individual animals. The first of these was artificial
insemination (AI) that started to be developed in the late 19th century.
Industry uptake of AI was initially slow, but increased rapidly following
the development of semen extenders, the reduction of veneral disease risk
by inclusion of antibiotics, and most significantly the development of
effective freezing and cryostorage procedures in the mid 20th century. AI
is now used in most livestock breeding enterprises, most notably by the
dairy industry where more than 90% of dairy cattle are produced through
AI in countries with modern breeding structures.
With the introduction of practical and effective embryo transfer (ET)
protocols in the latter part of the 20th century, exploitation of the female
genetic pool became possible for the first time. Advances in understanding
of the reproductive cycle and its hormonal control, the availability of puri-
fied gonadotropins, and improved cell and embryo culture procedures all
played significant roles for the rapid and worldwide use of ET, mainly in
cattle. ET is now being increasingly implemented in the top 1–2% of a

xx Foreword
given cattle population and has also been developed in other farm animal
species. But its real impact is yet to come as ET is the key enabler in the
introduction of the next generation of enhanced breeding technologies.
ET has already played a key role in advances such as in vitro production

of embryos (IVP), including the development of techniques to retrieve
oocytes repeatedly from female donors for IVF, sexing, cloning and trans-
genesis. Some of these technologies have been thoroughly addressed in
this book.
With the birth of “Dolly,” the cloned sheep, in 1996, a century-
old dogma in biology that inferred that a differentiated cell cannot be
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reprogrammed into a pluripotent stage was abolished. Today available
protocols are efficient enough to allow commercial application of
somatic cloning in all the major farm animal species. This will not only
further enhance the rate of genetic gain in herds and flocks but, through
the recent advent of precise genome editing tools, allow the production
of novel germlines for agricultural and biomedical purposes through the
capacity to genetically modify farm animals with targeted modifications
with high efficiency. This paves the way for the introduction of new
precision breeding concepts urgently needed to respond to future chal-
lenges in animal breeding, stemming from matching the demands of the
ongoing human population growth to the limited availability of arable
land and environmental constraints. The implementation of these new
concepts requires the application of reliable and effective reproductive
technologies.
This book is designed to provide the reader with the most recent
information on the practical application of a series of advanced reproduc-
tive technologies in the major farm animal species such as cattle, pigs
and horses, with emphasis on female and male cattle. The readership
will appreciate the detailed description of the technologies, their critical
appraisal, the extensive reference lists, and the rich illustration of the book.
—Prof. Dr. Heiner Niemann

Hannover Medical University
Germany

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SECTION I
Bovine


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CHAPTER 1
Bovine Reproductive Management

JOSÉ JAVIER DE LA MATA1,2,3* and GABRIEL AMILCAR BÓ3,4
1
Reproduction and Biotechnology-Veterinary Services, Santa Rosa,
La Pampa, Argentina
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Cathedra of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Agronomy,
2
National University of La Pampa, Santa Rosa, La Pampa, Argentina

Institute A.P. of Basic and Applied Sciences, National University of Villa
3
María, Villa del Rosario, Córdoba, Argentina

4
Animal Reproduction Institute Córdoba (IRAC), Pozo del Tigre,
Córdoba, Argentina
*
Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Beef cattle production is a widespread industry carried out worldwide.

Reproduction management is an essential tool that producers and veteri-
narians must realize to achieve the aim of beef production: to get pregnant
high number of females, to develop and maintain gestations, to ensure
easy-calving offspring and to wean healthy calves. Knowledge in the
physiology of reproduction such as endocrinology of the estrus cycle and
dynamics events in the reproductive tract in cattle has advanced in the last
20 years. Stages as puberty, anestrus, and cyclicity of cattle have been
studied in detail after many experiments and publications from researchers
from many countries, and these informations have favored for the massive
application of biotechnologies of reproduction such as artificial insemina-
tion and fixed-time artificial inseminations. This chapter describes recent
advances in bovine reproductive management emphasizing in different
treatments for the synchronization of ovulation for natural breeding or
fixed-time artificial insemination in beef cattle.
4 Biotechnologies Applied to Animal Reproduction
1.1 INTRODUCTION
Beef production is a huge industry worldwide, and in Europe, Australia,

North America, and South America extension forage-based systems are

a commonly use practice for producers. Longevity and precocity are two
features pursued by producers and have an important impact in the profit-
ability and sustainability of the business. Heifers and cows must conceive
every year to wean one calf, challenging the prepuberal and postpartum
anestrus, respectively. Faced with nutritional deficiency, and depending on
its severity, the natural physiological response is to renounce reproduction
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(Meikle et al., 2018). Therefore, there are many nutritional and hormonal
strategies and calf management to prevent the physiological status above
mentioned that could benefit heifers and suckled cows before the breeding
season initiation.
Artificial insemination (AI) treatment protocols are an alternative
tool to enhance reproductive management, not only by manipulating the
estrus and ovulation or by inducing cyclicity (Lucy et al., 2001), but also
by producing an advanced in genetics in the future calves generation.
Hormonal treatments are efficient and economical strategies that enhance
reproductive responses either in natural service (NS) or in fixed-time AI
programs (FTAI; Baruselli et al., 2018). Recently, new technologies in
relation with sexed-sorted semen are available for commercial applica-
tions (Bó et al., 2018a). These new technologies are a milestone in the
industry of the FTAI and will be an interesting option to increase superior
genetic of predefined sex calves. The objective of this chapter is to review
different and recent hormonal treatments strategies to avoid negative
effects of anestrus and will focus in new approaches of programs for FTAI
for improving reproduction managements in beef cattle.
1.2 BEEF HEIFERS AND BEEF COWS REPRODUCTIVE

MANAGEMENT
In beef cattle production, the nutritional management of the herd is essential

to attain cyclicity in both heifers and postpartum cows. Beef heifers must
achieve puberty before breeding season (BS) and postpartum beef cows
cyclicity depends on different main factors such as body condition score
(BCS) at calving, body reserves (energy stores), suckling and nutrition (feed
intake). BCS is an easy and quick method to predict adipose tissue reserves
Bovine Reproductive Management 5
in animals and is useful to estimate the physiological active endocrine

activity of different substances (insulin, IGF1, leptine, and adiponectin) that
fine-tune the reproductive axis at central (hypothalamus-pituitary gland)
and peripheral (ovaries, reproductive tract, and embryos) levels (Meikle

et al., 2018). Briefly the BCS, based on a scale 1–9 score point (Herd and
Sprott, 1986), in which code 1 is consider an emaciated animal (BCS 1)
whereas code 9 indicates an obese animal (BCS 9). At the beginning of
BS, the optimum BCS in all animal categories should be more than 5, with
fluctuations lower than 1fold, to permit a normal occurrence of the estrus
cycle. In beef cows if nutrition is adequate and allows for an increase gain
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plane, the first postpartum ovulation takes place on the third follicular wave
after parturition (~30 days), but if beef cows present poor body condition
and/or with undernourished conditions, ovulation is delayed (~70–100
days, reviewed by Crowe et al., 2014). Short et al. (1990) described the
biological priorities for nutrient utilization by cattle, ranking in different
vital physiological functions: (i) basal metabolism, (ii) motor activity, (iii)
growth, (iv) basic energy reserves, (v) maintenance of pregnancy, (vi)
lactation, (vii) additional energy reserves, (viii) estrus cycles and initiation
of pregnancy, and (ix) excess reserves. Beef cattle have the unique ability
to convert low-quality forages into meat and milk for the offspring, and in
times of excess nutrition they deposit energy stores for future maintenance
of bodily functions and production (Perry and Cushman, 2013).
During the postpartum period (Fig. 1.1), negative energy balance
(NEB) is generated particularly by deficient nutrition and the presence of
the offspring. The reproductive response increases the length of anestrus,
decreased fertility and increases early embryo mortality. In cows, BCS
at parturition was the most important factor that determines the period
to re-conception postpartum (D’Occhio et al., 2019) and cows with
high BCS synchronized with progesterone-based treatment protocols
for FTAI had higher pregnancy rates than cows with poor BCS (Bó et
al., 2002). Resumption of ovarian cyclicity is largely dependent on LH
pulse frequency (Crowe et al., 2014) as well as the dominant follicle in
the ovary should grow with the stimulation of many growth factors (e.g.
IGF 1 family) and nutrients (Meikle et al., 2018). At calving, pituitary LH
stores are low, because of high plasma concentration of progesterone in the
early and medium gestation, and later estrogen is synthesized by placental
tissue. The re-accumulation of pituitary stores of LH takes 2–3 weeks
to complete (reviewed by Crowe et al., 2014). In Argentina, a common

practice is to wean calves as early as ~ 60 days (early weaning), ~120 days

(anticipated weaning) or later at ~150 days (traditional weaning). After
the early weaning, calves are feed with high quality hay and a protein
supplementation, and management must be done in a dry lot system with

an intensive assistance during 40–50 days after weaning. Calf manage-
ment enable to postpartum cow to return to cyclic stage between 10–20
days post weaning, preventing the maternal-offspring bonding, resulting
in cyclic LH pulse frequency and periodic surge that will trigger a subse-
quent ovulation. First ovulation after parturition is generally silent (without
behavioral estrus signs) and the first luteal phase would be, at least in 70%
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of cases, of short duration (short-live corpus luteum), in which oocyte can
become fertilized. However, embryo arrests growing, an early luteolysis
undergoes and the embryo dies prior to the maternal-embryo recognition
(day 10–14 after ovulation).
FIGURE 1.1 Left: Angus suckled beef cows and their calves at the beginning of spring
breeding season (BS). Body condition score (BCS; scale 1:9) of cows in the image are
among 5 to 6. Different strategies of managements, not only in cows but also in calves,
can be done to enhance reproductive performance during BS. Right: 2-year old Angus beef
heifers ready for breeding season. Heifers must attain at least 60% of mature body weight
to be satisfactory for a breeding program.
Heifer reproductive management has been widespread studied in a

large amount of research that is available in the literature (Gutierrez et
al., 2014; Perry and Cushman, 2013). Beef heifers should be managed,
well-nourished and selected for the reposition (Fig. 1.1). Puberty in heifers
has been defined as the first ovulation that is accompanied by visual signs
of estrus and normal luteal function. Selection criteria are focus in 3 basic
concepts: (1) age, (2) body weight and (3) average daily gain (ADG)
during rearing. Usually, the target weight considered suitable in beef heifer
management practice is 65% of mature weight. The ideal developing varies

among breeds, mature size, and some research works reported that puberty
was obtained between 55% and 60% of mature body weight, suggesting
that adequate growth and BCS are necessary for the initiation of normal
estrus cycle (Perry and Cushman, 2013). Optimal timing of puberty in

beef heifers requires an ADG of 0.6–0.7 kg/day (reviewed by D’Occhio
et al., 2019), indicating that, similarly to postpartum cows, gain plane is
essential for heifers reproduction success during the rearing period from
weaning to puberty stage. In modern production systems, Bos taurus beef
heifers might attain puberty, conceive, and achieve first calving at around
2 years, to optimize lifetime reproductive performance, and heifers that
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calve as early tend to calve early throughout their entire life (Reviewed by
Perry and Cushman, 2013).
Previous to the BS, practitioners can examine the herd to determine
if postpartum cows and/or heifers are ready, not only for natural service
(NS) but also before the initiation of assisted reproductive technologies,
such as estrus synchronization protocols for FTAI, superovulation proto-
cols for in vivo -derived embryos and/or in vitro embryo production. BCS
and nutrition are important factors that should be considered to evaluate,
account that BCS should be 5–7 at the beginning of the season to ensure
the likelihood of reproductive success.
In heifers, reproductive tract scoring (RTS) is a valid method to
determine reproductive size development and maturation (Anderson et
al., 1991). RTS uses rectal palpation and/or ultrasonography to determine
size of the uterine horns and the structures that are present on the ovary
(1 = no palpable follicles, 2 = 8 mm follicles, 3 = 8–10 mm follicles, 4
= >10 mm follicles and possibly a corpus luteum [CL], 5 =CL present;
Anderson, 1991). In a recent publication (Gutierrez et al., 2014) including
15 months old Angus cross heifers (n=4041), reported the effect of RTS on
reproductive efficiency in heifers bred by FTAI and NS (AI-NS) or only
NS (ONS). In this study, heifers of AI-NS group were synchronized for
FTAI (n=2660) and two weeks later were exposed to bulls (bull-to-heifer
ratio= 1:40–1:50) for the reminder of the 85-day breeding season. Angus
cross heifers (n=1381) in ONS group were submitted to bulls (bull-to
heifer ratio= 1:20–1:25) for 85-day breeding season. Assessment of the
reproductive tract score by palpation was done 4 weeks pre-breeding to
categorize the females. Results showed that in AI-NS group pregnancy
rate was significantly different per FTAI between RTS 1, 2 and 3 (44.2%)
vs. 4 and 5 (61.9%); also, BS pregnancy rate was higher in heifers of RTS

4 and 5 than those of RTS 1 and 2 (90.4, 95.2% vs. 81.2%, for RTS 4, 5,
and 1–2, respectively). Furthermore, BS pregnancy rate in ONS group was
higher in heifers of RTS 4 and 5 (88.4 and 90.2%, respectively) than RTS
1, 2 and 3 (79.7 and 84.3%, respectively). More else, authors hypothesized

that the use of synchronization protocol might have induced cyclicity in
pre- and peripubertal heifers in AI-NS group and aided to achieve higher
pregnancy rate.
Natural service is the most popular management for BS in beef cattle.
In Argentina and Brazil, 88% of females of reproductive age are exposed to
clean-up bulls for a natural breeding (Baruselli et al., 2018). The bull:cow
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ratio frequently used by producers in Argentina (Región Pampeana) is
3–4% (Acuña et al., 2014), for the remainder of 60–90 days of the breeding
season. Bulls are evaluated before the BS for reducing the risk of using
low fertility ones. Breeding soundness evaluations (BBSEs) are low-cost
screening methods to ensure the bull’s health and fertility (reviewed by
Barth, 2018) and with this method practitioners could check maturity,
BCS, physical abnormalities, scrotal circumference and risks of venereal
or infectious diseases that could be present in sires.
The anestrus at the initiation of spring BS will be a negative effect to
reach higher pregnancy rate and can affect the profitability of cattlemen.
Exogenous administration of progesterone by insertion of intravaginal
progesterone-release devices (Fig. 1.2), with or without the addition of
equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG), have demonstrated improvement in
estrus synchrony and reduction in the interval parturition-conception (Lucy
et al., 2001; Gutierrez et al., 2014; Baruselli et al., 2018). Recently, Ferreira
et al. (2018) proposed different progesterone synchronization treatments
(with or without eCG) used before a 98 day-NS, called timed natural breeding
(TNB) in Bos inducus postpartum beef cows. In this publication, control
cows (without treatment) were less likely to be pregnant the first 21 days
of the NS (Table 1.1). Also, they concluded that the use of TNB, efficiently
improved the early conception of postpartum beef cows, suggesting that
TNB may have increased LH pulses frequency and anticipating cyclicity.
Further, the association of eCG enhanced follicular growth, ovulation
rate and pregnancy rate after the synchronization protocol. Similar data
were reported by our group (without eCG; Pérez Wallace, et al., 2016)
and by other colleges (with or without eCG; Hugenine et al., 2017), in
which the TNB treatment improved reproductive efficiency in Bos taurus
postpartum beef cows with 95% of anestrus at the beginning of the spring

BS (Table 1.1). Consequently, TNB is a recommended practice that might

improve pregnancy rate not only in postpartum beef cows but also in beef
heifers. These practices are especially useful in grass- feeding systems, in
which low BCS generates anestrus, affecting negatively the reproductive

outcomes. Moreover, higher pregnancy rates achieved during first 21 days
of BS will ensure greater percentage of earlier calves calving, weaning
heavier calves and helping cows to recover more rapidly after parturition
for the next BS.
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FIGURE 1.2 Five different models of intravaginal progesterone-releasing device commer-
cially available in Argentina. From the left side to the right: Cronipres® Monodosis (0.558 g
of progesterone; Biogénesis Bagó, Garín, Buenos Aires, Argentina); DIB® 1 g Syntex (1.0
g of progesterone; Zoetis, Buenos Aires, Argentina); CIDR® (1.9 g of progesterone; Zoetis,
Buenos Aires, Argentina); Emefur® monodosis (0.6 g of progesterone; Boehringer Ingelheim
Animal Health Argentina S.A., Buenos Aires, Argentina); and Pluselar 0.6 (0.6 g of proges-
terone, Laboratorio Calier de Argentina SA, Buenos Aires, Argentina).
TABLE 1.1 Pregnancy Rate During the First 21 Days of Breeding Season of Postpartum
Beef Cows Treated with Progesterone-Based Protocol (TNB) or Non-Treated (control),
Exposed To Natural Service.
TNB TNB+eCG Control sp Author
48.1% (26/52)a
- 20.0% (9/45) Bos taurus Pérez Wallace et al., 2016
b
19.4% (13/67)c 43.5% (27/62)d 12.2% (9/74)e Bos taurus Hugenine et al., 2017
30.4% (35/115)f 51.8% (58/112)g 5.7% (7/123)h Bos indicus Ferreira et al., 2018
Timed natural breeding (TNB) and TNB + equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) cows
received an estradiol and progesterone, based protocol treatment to synchronize follicular
wave emergence and ovulation with or without eCG, respectively. Control cows received
no prior protocol treatment. Different superscript letters indicate differ significant at the P
value (P < 0.05).

1.3 ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION IN BEEF CATTLE
Artificial insemination (AI) is an old technique used massively to

disseminate genetics among beef and dairy herds. AI has many advantages
compared with NS. It avoids the transmission of venereal diseases, enables
the use of high merit genetic expensive sires, increases calf uniformity
and increases genetic gain resulting in more productive future calves. In
Argentina, AI programs based on heat detection (HD) were widely used
in beef industry in the 80’s and 90’s in a reduced number of beef cattle,
primarily in beef heifers. Traditionally, the standing estrus or “heat”
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(18–24 h) is recognized in postpartum cows or postpuberal heifers when
sexual activity begins, that is when bull or others female is accepted for
the first time. Ovulation occurs normally at 24–32 h after the onset of
estrus and then a brief period begins in which the oocyte can be fertilized
(Reviewed by Nebel, 2012). On account of biological events, the proper
timing of insemination in cattle is associated with the moment of ovulation
and the viability of gametes (Fig. 1.3). AI performed between 4–16 h after
the estrus initiation results in acceptable pregnancy rates and the HD will
be critical for the success of the technique (Fig. 1.3). Nevertheless, the
implementation of AI programs based on HD in beef cattle is laborious
and difficult and requires observation at least twice a day by experimented
personnel. Although, the HD + AI is hampered by postpartum anestrous,
the large size of many farms and the labor cost reduce the reproductive
efficiency of the herd (Bó et al., 2007). Therefore, during the last 15 years,
HD based-AI programs have been replaced by a variety of treatment strat-
egies that allow insemination at a predetermined time (FTAI) eliminating
the need for HD and allowing insemination of beef cows regardless of
cyclic status (Bó et al., 2016).
1.3.1 PROGRAMS FOR FIXED-TIME ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION IN

BEEF CATTLE
Basically, there are two types of FTAI treatment protocols currently used
in beef cattle: GnRH-based and estradiol-based protocols, both of which
are combined with progesterone devices (Fig. 1.4). Estradiol-based proto-
cols are used in South America and in beef herds in Australia, whereas
GnRH-based protocols tend to be used in North America, Europe and New
Zealand, where the use of estradiol is prohibited. In South America, FTAI
programs increased dramatically and at the present ~15,000,000 FTAI have

been performed in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.
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FIGURE 1.3 Biological events associated with the ideal timing for artificial insemination
in the cow (adapted and modified from Nebel, 2012).
Estradiol-based treatments consist of insertion of a progesterone-

releasing device and the administration of 2 mg of estradiol benzoate (EB)
on Day 0, to induce follicle regression and synchronize the emergence
of a new follicular wave 3–5 days later (Bó et al., 2007). On Day 7 or
8, progesterone device is withdrawal and prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) is
administered to ensure luteolysis, and the subsequent application of 1 mg
EB 24 h later (ovulation inducer) or 0.5 mg (beef heifers and cyclic cows)
or 1 mg (postpartum anestrous cows) estradiol cypionate (ECP) at the time
of progesterone device removal to synchronize ovulation (Colazo et al.,
2003; Uslenghi et al., 2016; Fig. 4). In a recent report from Argentina,
431,008 FTAI synchronized with estradiol-based protocols, showed a
mean pregnancy rate of 50.4% (Bó et al., 2016). As most FTAI programs
are applied to suckling beef cows in South America, the use of eCG at
the time of removal of progesterone device improves the pregnancy rate
outcome (Baruselli et al., 2004; Bó et al., 2013). The beneficial effect of eCG
administered to a progesterone and estradiol-based protocol in anestrus
beef cows were the increasing in: (1) ovulation rate, (2) ovulatory follicle
diameter, (3) growth follicular rate and (4) area and serum progesterone
concentration during subsequent early and mid-luteal phase (Baruselli et
a., 2004; Núñez-Olivera et al., 2014). For practical recommendations, the
ideal moment to initiate a FTAI program should be ~40–45 days after
calving with the addition of eCG (400 UI) when BCS is low or a high
percentage of animals present anestrus in suckled postpartum beef cows.

The recommended doses of eCG for beef heifers should be 300 UI if BCS
is low and/or if anestrus rate is elevated in the lot.
GnRH-based treatment protocols that were developed for dairy cows
are widely used in North America and Europe in beef cattle (Geary and
Whittier, 2001; Day et al., 2012). The treatment consists of the adminis-
tration of GnRH analogues (busereline acetate or gonadoreline acetate)
and insertion of a progesterone device on Day 0 to induce ovulation of a
dominant follicle (>10 mm) if there is one present, with emergence of a
new follicular wave 1.5–2 days later. PGF2α is given 7 days later to induce
luteolysis and in beef cattle a second dose of GnRH is administered at
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the time of FTAI on Day 9 (54–66 h later) to synchronize ovulation (Day
et al., 2012; Bó et al., 2016). Protocols based on GnRH and PGF2α are
generically named Co-Synch (Fig. 1.4). A recent modification of the tradi-
tional 7 day-Co-synch protocol, is a novel protocol (Fig. 1.4) that reduced
the time of insertion of the progesterone device to 5 days instead of 7 days
plus a double injection of PGF2α 12 h apart (to ensure the luteolysis of
immature CL or “accessory CL” with the application of the initial GnRH),
and prolonged the proestrous period (FTAI 72 h after progesterone device
removal) with a subsequent increased of circulating estrogen levels and
higher progesterone concentrations in the subsequent luteal phase, named
5-day Co-Synch (Bridges et al., 2008; 2012; 2014). Bridges et al. (2008)
compared a 7-day Co-Synch protocol plus progesterone device with FTAI
at 60 h and a 5-day Co-Synch protocol plus progesterone device with
FTAI 72 h in postpartum beef cows. Across experiments, 5-day Co-Synch
increased FTAI pregnancy rate by 10.5% over the 7-day Co-synch protocol
(70.4% [214/304] and 59.9% [187/312], respectively; P<0.05). Similar
results were reported by Whittier et al. (2013), in a study carried out in
Angus beef cows (n=1817), in which cows synchronized with the 5-day
Co-Synch had higher FTAI pregnancy rate (58.1%) than those that received
the 7-day Co-Synch (55.1%; P=0.04). The 5-day Co-synch protocol is
available to synchronize beef heifers, achieving acceptable FTAI preg-
nancy rate (Perry et al., 2012). Omission of the initial GnRH and a single
dose of PGF2α would be advantageous to simplify the 5-day Co-Synch
in beef heifers. However, results are contradictories indicating a negative
effect by the omission of GnRH at Day 0 in beef heifers in one study
(Kasimanikam et al., 2014), while non-effect was reported in pregnancy
rate in yearling beef heifers in other (Cruppe et al., 2014). Nevertheless,
either a single or double dose of PGF2α resulted in similar FTAI pregnancy
rate in both publications (Cruppe et al., 2014; Kasimanikam et al., 2014).
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FIGURE 1.4 Common synchronizing programs for fixed-time AI in beef cattle. EB = estradiol
benzoate; ECP = estradiol cypionate; PGF2α = prostaglandin F2α; GnRH = gonadotropin
releasing hormone; Progesterone device = intravaginal progesterone-releasing device; FTAI
= fixed-time artificial insemination. Estradiol benzoate + progesterone treatments are used
to regress follicles and induce a new follicular wave emergence few days later (3–5). With
GnRH administration, if a dominant follicle greater than 10 mm is present on the ovaries,
produces the ovulation and the emergence of a new follicular wave few days later (1.5–2).
PGF2α injection at device removal is used to induce luteolysis and collaborates together with
ovulatory inducers (GnRH or ECP) to synchronize the ovulation of a dominant follicle. FTAI
could be carried out at a predefined timing without the necessity of estrus detection.
A recent strategy proposed by our group, was to investigate for

extending proestrus in an estradiol and progesterone-based estrous
synchronization protocol in Bos taurus beef heifers which has been named
J-Synch (de la Mata and Bó, 2012; Fig. 1.4). The treatment consists of
the administration of 2 mg EB at the time of insertion of a progesterone
device that is removed 6 days later. A single dose of PGF2α is given at
device removal, and animals receive GnRH at the time of FTAI, 72 h later
(Day 9; de la Mata and Bó, 2012; de la Mata et al., 2018). In several
studies (de la Mata and Bó, 2012, de la Mata et al., 2018; Ré et al., 2014;
Núñez Olivera et al., 2016; Sanz et al., 2019) heifers submitted to J-Synch

protocol had: lengthen duration of proestrus (period between progesterone

source removal up to ovulation) that lasted 94–105 h (de la Mata and Bó,
2012; Ré et al., 2014; de la Mata et al., 2018), higher pregnancy rates in
comparison with the conventional 7-day estradiol and progesterone-based

protocol (de la Mata et al., 2018) or 5-day Co-Synch protocol (Sanz et
al., 2019 in press) in FTAI. These improvements in heifers treated with
J-Synch was related to an increased rate of growth of preovualtory follicle,
greater progesterone concentrations during subsequent luteal phase and a
differential uterine gene functionality expression that promoted a healthier
milieu for embryo development (de la Mata et al., 2018).
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In summary, from a practical point of view, practitioners and producers
count with a vast knowledge in issues referred synchronizing ovulation
for FTAI in beef cattle. The use of either GnRH-based or estradiol-based
protocols with the insertion of progesterone release-device is an effective
strategy to enhance reproductive beef heifers and postpartum anestrus beef
cows, and pregnancy outcomes would achieve 50–60% (Bó et al., 2018a).
A multiplicity of factors such female physiological status, nutrition, BCS,
semen quality, synchronization treatment protocol, and the practitioner´s
experience will affect the success of the technique for maximizing the
improved genetics in a herd.
1.4 USE OF SEXED-SORTED SEMEN IN BEEF CATTLE: UPDATE

OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES
Sex ratio of resulting progeny through NS or trough FTAI programs is

genetically controlled, and naturally the probability of male calf’s births
is higher than the female births. Field data from an Argentinian Angus
stud that accumulates a total of 6713 calves birth registrations, informed
48.5% females calving and 51.5% males calving (personal communica-
tion). Sexed-semen sorted by flow cytometer/cell sorting technology is
commercially available from many years ago with about 90% accuracy
without unduly damage of sperm (Seidel, 2003). In the past, the use of
sexed-sorted semen (XY Legacy method) in breeding programs had a
compromised fertility because of sperm damage and fewer sperm concen-
tration used per insemination dose (Seidel, 2013) and the recommenda-
tions were to apply HD and AI programs only in heifers. New methods
have been developed in semen handling and processing before, during and

after the sorting process. New machines have enhanced digital electronics
with considerable automation, and these multiple changes have led to a
new product called SexedULTRA (Vishwanath, 2015; Vishwanath and
Moreno, 2018). Data of three years of experience in New Zealand using

liquid-stored SexedULTRA semen (1 million total sex-sorted) into dairy
cows (n=34,600) reported high pregnancy rates raising fertility to 65–67%
(Vishwanath, 2015). Also, Vishwanath and Moreno (2018) reported an
improvement of conception rates when Holstein heifers were insemi-
nated in huge field trials of commercial herds in the United States and in
Germany. The new SexdULTRA with 4 million sperm per dose achieved
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higher pregnancy rates when it was compared with the old XY Legacy
technology, and results were comparable to those achieved by conven-
tional non-sexed semen with 15 million sperm per dose (55.9% vs. 66.7%
vs. 66.5%, for XY Legacy method, SexedULTRA 4 M and Conventional
15 M, respectively; P<0.01).
In beef cattle, various experiments have been reported (Table 1.2)
comparing the field fertility of new technology SexedULTRA with 4
million sperm per dose in beef heifers and suckled beef cows (Thomas et
al., 2017; Bó et al., 2018a,b; Crites et al., 2018; Silva et al., 2018; Thomas et
al., 2019). Besides different synchronization protocols for FTAI have been
used among publications, some practical considerations must be taken. In
general, conventional non-sexed semen achieved higher significant preg-
nancy rates among studies (~10%) and fertility with SexedULTRA was
improved when split-timing AI programs were applied using tail painting
or patches on the top of the tail to detect rubbed off. In this way, delaying
the time of AI closer to the time of ovulation or limiting the AI with
SexedULTRA to those animals showing estrus would result in pregnancy
rate AI between 40 and 50% or even higher. Also, bull intrinsic fertility was
determinant to attain higher pregnancy rates (Thomas et al., 2017; Bó et
al., 2018a). Even though, SexedULTRA pregnancy rates did not overcome
conventional non-sexed semen in FTAI programs, average pregnancy rates
of the major data of publications tend to approximate to 50%, confirming
that this new technology is suitable for commercial purpose. Addition-
ally, the potential usage of the sexed-sorted semen to generate productive
animals aims to produce high-merit bulls or heifers from certain sire or dam
combination or to produce crossbred high-quality carcass steers. These will
maximize the utilization of sexed-sorted semen for genetic improvements
in the beef cattle industry.

TABLE 1.2 Field Results of Fertility Comparing the Use of SexedULTRA Semen vs.
Conventional (Non-Sexed) Semen in Beef Heifers and Beef Suckled Cows Synchronized
with Different Protocols for Fixed-Time AI.
Protocol Cat. n Sexed Conven- P-value Author

ULTRA tional
(4 million) (Non-sexed)
14 d-CIDR Heifersa 951 52.0% 60.0% <0.05 Thomas et al., 2017
J-Synch+eCG Heifers a
850 49.3% 58.3% <0.05 Bó et al., 2018
7-d Co-Synch Bothb 394 49.2% 56.7% >0.1 Crites et al., 2018
7-d E2+EB Cows c
294 49.0% 52.4% <0.01 Silva et al., 2018
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7-d E2+ECP Cows c
297 51.0% 68.2% <0.01 Silva et al., 2018
J-Synch+eCG Cowsc 662 40.8% 65.8% <0.05 Bó et al., 2019
7-d Co-Synch Cows c
1,620 47.9% 64.6% <0.01 Thomas et al., 2019
a
Indicates beef heifers.
b
Indicates suckled beef cows and beef heifers.
c
Indicates suckled beef cows.
KEYWORDS
•• beef heifers and cows

•• synchronization of the ovulation
•• fixed-time artificial insemination
•• natural breeding
•• sex-sorted semen
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CHAPTER 2
Ultrasonography in Bovine Gynecology

GIOVANNI GNEMMI1,2*, JUAN CARLOS GARDÓN2, and
CRISTINA MARABOLI1
Bovinevet Internacional, Bovine Ultrasound Services and Herd
1
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Management, Calle de la Mecanica, 9, Huesca, 22006, Huesca, Spain
2
Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary
and Experimental Sciences Catholic University of Valencia,
San Vincente Mártir, Spain
*
ABSTRACT
Ultrasound is an indispensable tool today for the reproductive management

of cattle (dairy and beef). It is a collateral examination, which by itself
cannot and does not pretend to be the answer to the reproductive problems
of the farm. Ultrasound can reduce the margin of error encountered with
the manual evaluation of the uterus and ovaries, a margin of error that is
only partially attributable to individual capabilities.
This extraordinary technique allows for real-time responses in any
environmental condition, as it is a flexible technique. It is a technique that
is easily repeatable and allows many services to be produced on farms.
Thanks to the introduction of ultrasound in the reproductive management
of the herd, it is possible to safeguard both the concept of animal welfare
and that of food safety. This is mainly due to the accurate and timely use of
antibiotic and hormonal therapies, thanks to an extremely precise diagnosis,
as only ultrasound can achieve.

2.1 INTRODUCTION
The need to use or not the ultrasound in bovine gynecology is being

discussed all over the world. Although ultrasonography has been proposed
as a collateral examination in bovine reproduction (Pierson et al., 1984a, b;
Pierson et al., 1986; 1987) for about 30 years, about 40% of the veterinaries
working in gynecology (Gnemmi et al., 2005), use this tool.
Why is this technique so hard to succeed in boring? Are there “scientific”
reasons that do not recommend its use? Is it still possible to deal with bovine
gynecology, without using this technique? What services should “offer” to
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customers? These are just some of the questions that are asked when we
talk about ultrasonography applied to bovine reproductive management.
2.2 ULTRASONOGRAPHIC UNITS AND PRACTICAL

RECOMMENDATIONS
2.2.1 ULTRASOUND UNITS
The ultrasound units can be divided into non-portable and portable models.
The non-portable units are tools of great bulk and weight (20–30 kg),
which on the one hand guarantee an extraordinary image quality, on the
other they are not usable easily in field conditions, but they can find their
place by working in fixed positions, or in the research area.
The portable units, in turn, can be divided into portable and ultra-portable.
The weight of these units it is between 3.0–12.0 kg. Higher weight instru-
ments require a transport trolley and, normally, line current: both situations
limit their use in the field.
In conditions of extensive breeding, where the animals are subjected
to gynecological examination in fixed locations, these instruments still
find their place of use. Even the power supply problem can be overcome
brilliantly, using an inverter and then a 12-volt battery.
Today there are 3.0–5.0 kg portable units, with good portability and
autonomy, being equipped with an internal battery (2.5–4 h of work). This
is a new generation of instruments, which have all the qualities of non-
portable units, also guaranteeing less weight and a smaller size. They have
LCD screens, some even touch screens.
The ultra-portable units de facto have allowed the use of ultrasonography
in filed condition. The weight of these machines ranges from 850 to 2000 g.
Ultrasonography in Bovine Gynecology 23
The first “ultra-portable” unit for farm animals, entered in Europe in the
mid-90s (Gnemmi et al., 2005; 2006; 2011): it was a unit of 5500 g. There
are many ultra-portable units available on the market today: the price ranges
from € 3500 to € 12,000. They are all units with LCD screens, some are not
equipped with a built-in screen, but they using cameras inserted in a device
similar to a pair of glasses or use a portable screen (even wrist and fixed
with a Wi-Fi connection). Some have the possibility of using different types
of probes, while others, only mount a linear probe, sometimes sectoral,
for endorectal use, multifrequency (5.0–10.0 MHz), intended for use in
gynecology. All these instruments are powered by a battery, which offers
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a variable working autonomy (2.5–7.5 h). These are very practical, light
and space-saving instruments that are well suited to every work situation
(Fricke et al., 2005; Gnemmi, 2010).
2.2.2 CHOICE OF INSTRUMENT
When you need to buy an ultrasound machine, you need to do a business

plan, which is to verify exactly the cost–benefit of the purchase. Based on
this study may be possible to decide which ultrasound unit to buy. We need
to analyze several points:
• Financial aspect. How much money I have available? Is it more
convenient to rent the money at a bank, or use the money I have
available? The instrument is normally amortized in 3–12 months,
based on the number of ultrasonographic examinations performed
by the professional. It has been calculated that it takes less than 3 h
of work a month to amortize the instrument, within tax amortization
times (7 years) (DesCoteaux et al., 1998; Filteau et al., 1998; Gnemmi
1999; 2001).
• Practical aspect. How many hours a day, a week, a month and a year
do I intend to use the ultrasound unit? What kind of service can I
offer already now? What kind of services can I offer for the next
3–6–12 months? Do I intend to carry out ultrasound scans only of
the reproductive apparatus, or to carry out extra genital scans? Only
in cattle or even in other species? (Gnemmi, 1999).
• Economical aspect. What is the fee per hour of ultrasound work
and/or ultrasound examination carried out? What is the break-even
and what is the pay-back of this investment?

The ultrasound scanners are fairly simple instruments, consisting of a

screen, a probe and a keyboard.
The screen: The screens were originally cathode ray tube, now they are
LCD screen: this choice has made it possible to lighten the ultrasound units
considerably, at the same time guaranteeing a remarkable image quality.
Working outdoors, especially in summer, you may encounter difficulties
in seeing the image on the screen: this problem can be solved by resorting
to an integrated system of cameras mounted on special glasses, or more
simply can use small black cardboard cones, which applied on the screen
allow you to limit the noise derived from the light, or may be possible to
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use various protection systems.
The keyboard: In some cases, it is extremely simple, while in others,
it is comparable to a computer keyboard. In all the instruments there are
commands, which allow to fix the image (and possibly to memorize it), to
change the brightness of the screen and to improve the contrast in specific
points.
The probes: In bovine gynecologic are used endo-rectal probes of
5.0–8.0 MHz, linear (straight or curved) or sectorial: the linear are substan-
tially easier to use, especially for those who are beginners, the latter at the
same frequency allow to work at a greater depth.
Microconvex probes are also available, both for endo-vaginal use and
for endo-rectal use Increasing the frequency reduces the depth of action
of the probe but increases the definition. In practice, the higher the emis-
sion frequency, the shorter the wavelength of the ultrasounds produced, so
we will have a lower depth of action, but a better definition: a 7.5 MHz
probe, allows to better highlight follicular structures even of 3–4 mm, at a
depth of 4–5 cm, while a 5 MHz probe, will allow to highlight follicular
structures of 7–8 mm, at a depth (greater) of 8–10 cm (Table 2.1).
2.3 ULTRASONOGRAPHY IN BOVINE REPRODUCTION
Many veterinarians and breeders, believe that ultrasonography in bovine

reproduction, has a reason to be only for the early diagnosis of pregnancy. It
is actually a very limited vision of the potential benefits that this technique
can guarantee. The margin of error in the evaluation of ovarian structures
(corpus luteum, follicle) of an excellent technician with palpation with
over 30 years of experience in this sector and no less than 60,000 cows
examined manually/year, is 35–45%, while the margin of error in the
manual evaluation of physio-pathological pictures of the uterus, excluding

the diagnosis of pregnancy, is 70–80% (Gnemmi, 1999; 2001). This error
leads to a considerable economic loss, in terms of therapeutic costs, labor
and above all in terms of open days!
TABLE 2.1 Characteristics and Indications of Probes of Different Frequencies in Bovine

Gynecology (adapted from Ginther, 1998).
Probes frequency and characteristics
5 MHz 7.5 MHz
It works between 0–12 cm deep, It works between 0–7 cm deep, detecting
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detecting follicular structures of 7–8 mm follicular structures of 3–4 mm
Good resolution Excellent resolution
Physiopathology of ovary and uterus Physiopathology of ovary and uterus
Early diagnosis of Early diagnosis of nonpregnancy–pregnancy
nonpregnancy–pregnancy Early diagnosis of suffering and embryonic
Early diagnosis of suffering and death
embryonic death Fetal sex diagnosis
Fetal sex diagnosis
The ultrasonographic, routine evaluation of the ovary and uterus, with

the aim of evaluating the physio-pathological condition, represents one of
the services that are ablest to increase the income of the farmer.
2.3.1 THE CORPUS LUTEUM AND THE FOLLICULAR DYNAMICS
The most important structures present on the ovary are the corpus luteum
and the follicles. The corpus luteum can be compact or with a cavity (often
there are also more cavities separated from each other, or communicating).
The presence of the cavity does not affect its functionality, which in all
respects is a normal corpus luteum, regularly producing progesterone. The
cavity CL is not correlated to lower rates of conception, or to higher rates
of embryonic and/or fetal death, moreover it does not influence in any way
the length of the estrous cycle. The shape, the diameter, the number and
the diameter of the cavity, do not absolutely influence the functionality of
the corpus luteum cavity. This cavitary CL is excellent for starting a super
ovulation, as well as for embryo transfer. It is therefore difficult to attempt
to frame it in a single diagnostic criterion, as some Authors have tried to

do (Chastant-Maillard, 2010). The cavity CL is present in large numbers in

the first ten days of the estrous cycle (35–70%) (DesCoteaux et al., 2010),
while we still have 30% of corpus luteum bodies at the end of the estrous
cycle (DesCoteaux et al., 2010), Between the 10th–15th day of the ovarian
cycle, 70% of the cavitary corpus lute, loses the cavity, which is replaced
by new luteinic tissue (which appears more echogenic than the luteinic
tissue that constituted the cavity CL wall), or following the collapse of
the cavity, an echogenic scar remains, instead of the cavity itself. Not all
researchers and not all ultrasonographers agree on lutein tissue, filling the
cavity of the corpus luteum; some believe that it is only fibrin and red
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blood cells. A 30% of cavity corpus luteum maintains the cavity for the
entire duration of the estrous cycle: in many cases, this CL cavitation at
the end of the cycle, have a cavity (sometimes even of significant size),
circumscribed by a thin hyper-echogenic bright line (Fig. 2.1).
In principle, we can therefore say, that in the presence of a CL with a
cavity filled with echogenic tissue, or in the presence of a scar inside it,
or even in the presence of a cavity circumscribed by a thin and brilliant
hyper echogenic, we are in the second decade of the estrous cycle. It must
be said that this indication should be taken as a general rule: in fact, it can
happen to be in the presence of CL with the characteristics mentioned
above, already after 4–6 days from ovulation.
Wanting to establish more precisely the age of the corpus luteum and
therefore the estral window in which the cow is found, it is good to analyze
the follicular map present on both ovaries, also analyzing the characteris-
tics of the uterus.
The cavitary corpus luteum can also be a gravid corpus luteum: about
10% of pregnant bodies between 28 and 35 days of gestation are cavitary
(Gnemmi et al., 2009)
The follicular dynamics is clearer today thanks to the ultrasonographic
study, which allowed us to confirm Rajakoski's hypothesis (Rajakoski, 1960).
Ultrasonographically, with a 5.0–7.5 MHz rectal-probe and an ultra-
portable unit, follicular structures can be detected starting from 3 mm in
diameter. All follicular dynamics can be monitored: recruitment, deviation,
ovulation of the last dominant follicle. It is possible to evaluate the
diameter of the largest follicle present on the ovaries at that moment; this
is of fundamental importance in defining the therapeutic strategy: in the
presence of follicular structures with a diameter less than 8 mm, a possible
therapy with GnRH must be postponed as with a PGF2α, regardless of the

diameter of the corpus luteum. The ultrasound evaluation of the dominant

follicle diameter allows us to predict with good approximation, when the
cow will come in heat in two and three follicular waves.
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FIGURE 2.1 Ultrasonograms of different types of bovine CL: (A) Cavitary CL; (B)
Compact CL; (C) ex Cavitary with scar; (D) CL with cavity partially full; (E) Hemorrhagic
body; (F) CL with echoic ring.

The use of ultrasonography has also made it possible to optimize the

results of the synchronization plans (synchronization of heat and ovulation),
optimizing the detection of the corpus luteum and the dominant follicle,
thus increasing the accuracy of the start of each synchronization plan.

The use of Doppler echo is opening up new opportunities in the study
of physiology, but also of the pathology of the ovary and uterus (Gnemmi
et al., 2013). There is a close correlation between the degree of vascu-
larization of CL and the level of circulating progesterone (Herzog et al.,
2007; Rauch et al., 2008). This makes it possible to make an accurate
diagnosis of non-pregnancy already twenty days after insemination, but
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above all this technique can improve the accuracy of the ultrasound diag-
nosis, improving conception rates in synchronization plans and optimizing
hormonal therapies: both for use therapeutic than for zootechnical use.
The application of ultrasonography in bovine reproduction has also
improved the performance of estrous and ovulation synchronization
programs. The use of ultrasonography to check for the presence of a CL
at the end of the voluntary waiting period makes it possible to define
which pre-synchronization strategy to use (Fricke et al., 2005; Gnemmi
et al., 2011).
2.3.2 OVARIAN PATHOLOGIES.
The ultrasound examination of the ovary allows us to highlight patho-

logical structures, which otherwise we would not be able to detect with
rectal palpation (Fig. 2.2).
Ultrasonography allows us to establish the actual functional situation
of the ovary: very often at the palpation the ovulatory anestrus is confused
with anovulation (absence of persistent lutein structures for not less than
10 days). Thanks to ultrasonography, the concept of anaestrus is clearer
(Peter et al. 2009; Gnemmi et al., 2010; 2012a, 2012b; Gnemmi, 2013).
At the same time, we have seen that the accuracy of manual diagnosis in
case of cystic degeneration of the ovary is very low (Farin et al., 1992) and
that over 30% of follicular cysts (anestrus type III) are contemporaneous
with a corpus luteum (Al-Dahash et al., 1977; Gnemmi et al., 2011) and
therefore they are not functionally a problem.
There is still much talk of lutein cysts, but what is the real importance
of these structures? How many of these alleged cysts are not actually a
cavitary corpus luteum or a follicular cyst in the process of luteinization?
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FIGURE 2.2 Ultrasonograms of different bovine ovary pathologies: (A) follicular cyst;
(B) cyst of the ovary bag; (C) tumor of granulosa cells.
The differential diagnosis today is based on the thickness of the lutein

wall: > 3 mm CL, <3 mm luteinic cyst. Other authors speak of an average
thickness of the luteinic wall of 5 mm (3–10 mm) and of the presence of
a cavity of not less than 30 mm (Chastant-Maillard, 2010; Hanzen et al.,
2008): under field conditions this differential diagnosis is very difficult to
make, even admitting that it has its own prognostic value.
Among the ovarian pathologies,, the abscesses and the hematomas of the
ovarian bursa can be easily highlighted with the ultrasound examination and

the ultrasound examination allow a diagnosis to be made (also establishing

the degree of connectivity and calcification of the abscess) and especially a
differential diagnosis with the corpus luteum.
The cyst of ovarian bursa is a pathology that does not seem to negatively
affect the fertility of the cow. These are cystic formations of varying
diameter (they can reach 10–15 cm in diameter), which form in the ovarian
bursa and are clearly distinguished from the cystic degeneration of the
ovary. Ultrasound diagnosis is relatively simple, but above all it allows a
differential diagnosis with ovarian cysts.
Ovarian neoplasms (tumor of granulosa cells, lutein cell tumor), can be
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detected with an ultrasound examination, however the diagnosis must be
confirmed with a biopsy.
The ovary dysplasia, considered by some to be a pre-tumor stage, by
others a finding correlated with the advanced age of the animal.
2.3.3 ULTRASOUND UTERUS EVALUATION
The margin of error in the evaluation of the uterus (physio-pathological) of

an excellent “palpator” with a very big experience it is 65–75% (Gnemmi,
1999; 2001), obviously the pregnancy diagnosis is not referred to. Both in
terms of sensitivity and specificity, manual palpation of the uterus does not
allow obtaining acceptable results.
2.3.3.1 PHYSIOLOGICAL UTERUS.
The uterus at different moment of the cycle has different morphological

characteristics, determined by the hormonal setting. These characteristics
can be evaluated on ultrasonography.
During oestrus, the endometrium appears thickened (edema) with
low echogenicity and dotted with anechoic spots (blood vessels, edema),
separated from the myometrium by the ticker vascular tunic, which in
cross-section appears as an anechoic ring (Fig. 2.3 A). The uterine lumen
is dilated and anechoic in the absence of endometritis. Numerous specular
reflections (“good” artifact) characterize this moment of the cycle. The
myometrium presents itself, contracted and more environmentally friendly.
During the meta-estrus, the uterine characteristics change: in the
immediate meta-estrus, the ultrasound the uterus will be very similar to

the estrous uterus, but as you move away from ovulation (36 hs), lowering
the level of estrogen, the thickness is reduced of the endometrium, of the
uterine lumen (specular reflexes are also reduced) and of the vascular
tunica, while the thickness of the myometrium increases.

During the di-estrus, there are some differences between the beginning,
the intermediate phase and the end (5th –15th day in a two-wave cows).
On the 10th day of the cycle, approximately in correspondence with the
atresia of the first dominant follicle (bovine with two waves), the thickness
and the ultrasonographic characteristics of endometrium and myometrium
are very similar, separated by a very thin vascular habit (anechoic), in
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absence of a uterine lumen (unless an endometritis persists). This picture
is typical of a hormonal profile characterized by progesterone.
In pro-estrus, the thickness of the endometrium begins to increase,
just as its echogenicity gradually decreases; increases the diameter of the
uterine lumen, increases the thickness of the vascular tunic, decreases the
thickness of the myometrium and with it also increases its echogenicity.
Establishing the moment of the cycle, due to the ultrasound character-
istics of the uterus, is not possible: this evaluation should always be carried
out considering the follicular map of both ovaries. In the case of cows with
two growth waves, this assessment is rapid and precise. Attention to cases
of co-dominance (presence of more than one dominant follicle in the same
wave) and/or persistent dominant follicles, which can make the picture
equivocal.
2.3.3.2 NO PREGNANCY DIAGNOSIS.
Most of the veterinarians and technicians who use the ultrasound machine
in the clinic, limit their use to the early diagnosis of pregnancy only. This
is a very limited view.
More than the early examination of pregnancy, it is important to be able
to carry out the early examination of non-pregnancy: these are the cows,
the ones that have the greatest impact on the economic losses, increasing
the open days.
A certain diagnosis of pregnancy is based on the presence of one or
more corpus luteum on one or both ovaries, on the presence of fluid in the
uterus, but above all on the presence of one or more embryos.
The mere presence of a corpus luteum (or more than one) and liquid
in the uterus, allows only to make a diagnosis of suspicion of pregnancy.
The emergence of the embryo is theoretically possible even very early

(19th day). It is much easier to detect the embryo at 25th day of gestation
(width 3–5 mm and length about 8 mm). This is obviously a relative ease:
in less than 50% of cases, the embryo can be detected ultrasonographically

in a very early stage of gestation (24th–25th day), without having to
manipulate the uterus. (Ginther, 1998; Gnemmi et al., 2005; Fricke et al.,
2005). The manipulation of the uterus always involves a release of PGF2α,
responsible for an increase in late embryonic death. The sensitivity of
the embryo to PGF is greater the younger the embryo. Therefore, if the
diagnosis of non-pregnancy/pregnancy should be started at twenty-five
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days post-insemination, do not manipulate the uterus. At twenty-eight
days of gestation, the diagnosis of non-pregnancy/pregnancy is easier,
faster and more accurate; the doubtful cows are few and it is easier to make
the diagnosis of twin pregnancy. Furthermore, the non-pregnant cows that
have cycled have a CL of 6–8 days, that is very easy to highlight unlike a
hemorrhagic CL (Gnemmi et al., 2005).
When to start making the diagnosis of non-pregnancy/pregnancy? The
choice must be made based on the rate of detection of the heat of the farm,
based on the use of re-synchronization systems and on the frequency of
gynecological visits (Gnemmi et al., 2015).
In farms where gynecology is carried out weekly, to start the no-preg-
nancy/pregnancy exam before 30–32, don’t reduce the days open, in
particularly using a Resynch program (Resynch25).
Where gynecological examinations take place every fifteen days,
especially if the heat detection is low (≤ 40%), there may be a need to
anticipate the diagnosis at 25–26 days, stressing the fact that the number of
doubtful cows increases, that it is more difficult to make the diagnosis of
twinning and that it is more difficult to highlight the embryo and therefore
evaluate its vitality (Gnemmi et al., 2008).
2.3.3.3 EMBRYO VIABILITY
During the diagnosis of pregnancy, one should not limit oneself to this, but
it is useful and appropriate to evaluate the quality of the pregnancy itself.
Embryo death (Fig. 2.3 B) is an important problem in the gynecological
management of cattle breeding, from dairy, but also from meat. This is
not an abstract problem or even a random one, heavily affecting corporate

balance sheets (Vasconcelos et al., 1997; Fricke et al., 2005; Gnemmi et al.,
2011a, b; 2013a, b, c). The criteria for evaluating the quality of pregnancy
are different:
• Heart rate
• Echogenicity of amniotic and/or allantoic fluid
• Separation of the corion-allantoic membrane
• Edema of the endometrium
• Integrity of the amniotic membrane
• Absence of the embryo
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• Size of the embryo
Certainly, at a very early stage (27–28 days) the most immediate assess-
ment is the observation of the heartbeat, which appears ultrasonographi-
cally as a rapid succession of echogenic points (Fig. 2.3 C). Normally, at
this age the heartbeat has a frequency between 120–130 beats per minute
(Ginther, 1998; DesCoteaux et al., 2010). Timing beats in field conditions
is difficult, but normally it can be said that, if the heart rate is so slow that
it can be counted easily, there is a state of embryonic suffering, whereas
when the speed of the beat is so rapid as to make counting difficult to
impossible, the embryo's state of health is regular.
2.3.3.4 FETAL SEXING
Fetal sexing is a useful service in every business environment. It should

not be thought that this is a technique intended only for elite of breeders,
who produce genetics. The reasons for extending fetal sexing to all types
of businesses are different:
• The value of sexed female or male pregnancies increases.
• It is possible to carry out contracts for male pregnancies.
• Culling decision improves surprisingly.
• It is possible to improve the management of delivery assistance in
the heifers.
• It is possible to improve the calving management (beef races).
• It is possible to improve the management of the nursery: spaces and
work.
• It is possible to improve the efficiency of the breeding plan.

The sexing is performed by determining the position of the genital

tubercle (TG): in the male it will be retro umbilical (Fig. 2.3 D), in the female
under the tail (Fig. 2.3 E). TG is ultrasonographically presented as a double
bright echogenic structure, in the male as in the female. In the male the
TG becomes tri-lobed from seventy days for the appearance of the corpus
cavernosum of the penis. After the 70th day of gestation, the breasts and the
scrotum can be detected (Ginther, 1998; Gnemmi et al., 2008). Migration of
the genital tubercle begins at day 45 and ends in the female at 52–53 days,
in the male at 55 days. Therefore, it is not advisable to perform fetal sexing
before the 55th day (Ginther, 1998; Fricke et al., 2005; Gnemmi et al., 2005;
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2008; 2015). From the 55th to the 60th day, the skill and experience of the
technician are decisive: between 60–90 days it is simple: between 90–110
days the technician’s experience is decisive, while from 110 to 130 days it
depends from the position that the fetus is assuming (Gnemmi et al., 2005;
2008; 2015). A good technician has an accuracy of 99.99%.
2.3.3.5 TWIN PREGNANCY DIAGNOSIS
Twinning is certainly an emerging “pathology” in high production dairy

cattle breeding. The twin rate has doubled in just over fifteen years: if the
twins are looking for us, the twins will be found! (Gnemmi, 2006; Gnemmi
et al., 2006, 2008).
The 99% of twin pregnancies are heterozygous (two corpora lutea on
the same ovary or distributed on both ovaries; two males or two females,
or one male and one female), 1% are monozygotic (a corpus luteum, two
females, or two males) (Ginther, 1998; Fricke et al., 2005; Gnemmi, 2006;
Gnemmi et al., 2006; 2008).
The rate of late embryonic death, in the case of twins is about 30%
higher than in single pregnancies, similarly the abortion rate is greater.
Ultrasound diagnosis is necessary, given the low accuracy of manual
diagnosis (Fig. 2.3 F). Once the diagnosis is made, these cows will have to
be constantly monitored (do no less than four confirmations of pregnancy
during gestation), furthermore it will have to be brought up to ten days
earlier (the delivery will be anticipated by ten days) and assistance must
always be given to the birth. Possibly these animals should receive a
suitable food supplement during the dry period, to reduce the predisposition
towards puerperal pathologies (placenta retention, metritis, ketosis, LDA/
RDA,) (Gnemmi, 2006; Gnemmi et al., 2006; 2008).
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FIGURE 2.3 Ultrasonograms of non–gravid and gravid bovine uterus: (A) uterus in estrus;
(B) embryo death; (C) pregnancy 28 days; (D) male pregnancy; (E) female pregnancy; (F)
twin pregnancy.
Make twin pregnancies! In the case of male and female pregnancy, the
female must be considered at high risk of Free Martinism. This pathology
is always suspected even when only one embryo was present in the sexing

and this was a female one: if the embryo died between the first and second
pregnancy diagnosis was a male and if it died after the 30th day of gestation,
the possibility that the female fetus is not a Free Martin is very few.
2.3.3.6 PATHOLOGICAL UTERUS.
Ultrasonography is not the best diagnostic method for the diagnosis of

metritis (puerperal or septical) in the early postpartum days. After the 10th
day, the introduction of this technique for monitoring the uterus is decisive,
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given the very low accuracy of the manual examination. From the 20th
postpartum day, it is possible to ultrasonologically diagnose clinical endo-
metritis (purulent, muco-purulent, pyometra, mucometra) and sub-clinical
endometritis and endometrial fibrosis (DesCoteaux et al., 2010; Gnemmi
et al., 2010a,b).
Both purulent and muco-purulent endometritis is easily identifiable
thanks to the ultrasound examination, working with a linear probe with
a frequency of 5.0–7.5 MhZ. The uterine content will have a variable
echogenicity based on the concentration of PMN (> or <50%). The uterine
content always looks like a “snow storm” (Fig. 2.4 A and B). The content
will be more eco-friendly when the PMN concentration is ≥ 50%, while it
will be hypo-echogenic when the PMN concentration is <50% (Gnemmi
et al., 2010a).
The presence of pyometra is worth the considerations just made for
clinical endometritis. The pyometra in most cases is characterized by the
presence of one or two persistent CLs (Gnemmi et al., 2010a)
In the presence of mucometra, the uterine content will be anechoic,
often with small hypo-echogenic points. There is always one more than
one persistent CL. Pay attention to the differential diagnosis with a gesta-
tion (Gnemmi et al., 2010a). These diagnoses are also possible with an
ultra-portable device.
The ultrasonographic diagnosis of sub-clinical endometritis can be
carried out with extreme accuracy: endometrial thickness > 8 mm, uterine
content > 3 mm are general guidelines, which however make the diagnosis
not very sensitive (Fig. 2.4 C and D). Sensitivity increases greatly by
verifying the presence of artifacts (shadows or specular reflections) that
can guide the diagnosis, as well as the verification of the follicular map
(Gnemmi et al., 2010b).

The ultrasonographic examination of the uterus also allows us to high-

light pathological structures of the uterine wall: abscesses (Fig. 2.4 F),
hematomas, cysts (Fig. 2.4 E).
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FIGURE 2.4 Pathologies of bovine uterus: (A) purulent endometritis; (B) muco–purulent
endometritis; (C) clinical metritis; (D) subclinical endometritis; (E) uterus cyst; (F) abscess
of the uterus.

KEYWORDS
•• ultrasound units
•• reproductive evaluation
•• follicular dynamics
•• ovarian pathologies
•• pregnancy diagnosis
•• uterus pathologies
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•• herd management
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CHAPTER 3
Ultrasonography of the Bovine

Reproductive System: Ultrasound
Management of the Male Reproductive
System
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CRISTINA MARABOLI1
Bovinevet Internacional, Bovine Ultrasound Services and Herd
1
Management, Spain
2
and Experimental Sciences, Catholic University of Valencia,
*
ABSTRACT
The natural service is still extremely widespread today and, in the breeding
of beef cattle, it is the most important form of insemination. Functional
evaluation of the reproductive efficiency of the bull is as important as
that of the cows, in fact, it is even more important considering that a
bull awaits several females. Being able to have a procedure that allows
evaluating the reproductive potential of the bull is fundamental, both for
bulls used in the herd and for bulls destined, for their genetic merit, to the
production of seminal material for artificial insemination. Ultrasound has
not yet been officially introduced in the breeding soundness evaluation;
however, it has been used extensively for over 20 years to complement
the clinical evaluation of the bull. It becomes a fundamental tool
whenever there is teratospermia, low semen concentration, leukospermia

or pyospermia, oligospermia or azospermia, little vitality after thawing,

presence of testicular pain for no apparent reason, or when we have
anatomical modifications of the bull’s reproductive system. It is a simple
technique, repeatable in any environmental condition and requires very

basic ultrasound instrumentation.
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Reproductive management represents one of the fundamental critical
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points in the intensive or extensive breeding of beef or dairy cattle (Pursley,
2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010). Infertility continues to be the main
cause of involuntary elimination in cattle breeding (Santos, 2013). There
is much talk, and with reason, of the infertility associated with female
factor: repeating cow syndrome in the USA costs between 1 and 2 billion
dollars per year (Pursley, 2007). Unfortunately, very little is said about
the importance (determinant) of the bull in this aspect, whether it is used
for semen production or in natural service. The main limiting factor in
modern reproductive management is undoubtedly the low efficiency in the
detection of oestrus (Gnemmi, 2007; 2013), which is why in dairy herds
natural service is often used, which is a common resource in bovine and
bubaline beef herds, at least after the first IA (FTAI). The reproductive
efficiency of the bull is important for the herds, because of the economic
consequences in case of failures (increase in open days); also, in the case
of bulls used for semen production, a constant reproductive efficiency is
essential in order to guarantee, on the one hand, good or optimal conception
rates, and on the other hand, for the recovery of the economic investment
in the reproducer, which is undoubtedly important.
The choice of a breeder is first made on the basis of genealogical
(genomic and genetic) and morphological criteria. The morphology is
undoubtedly a very considered aspect; attention is paid to the general
clinical state, its libido, its ability to mount a female. In some cases, there
is also a qualitative–quantitative evaluation of the semen. Sometimes,
the bull is subjected to a general clinical examination and a particular
examination of the reproductive apparatus: inspection, palpation, super-
ficial, and deep palpation of the testicles, with the aim of evaluating their
elasticity. A complete clinical examination is carried out, without resorting
to complementary examinations, except (sometimes) for the spermogram.

Ultrasonography of the Bovine Reproductive System 43
However, the cost of a reproducer is usually very important, if it is bought

as a bull of the year. Although andrological examination (Breeding Sound-
ness Evaluation; BSE) has been used for several years, there are still few
establishments that have incorporated ultrasonography (Kastelic and

Brito, 2012).
It is difficult to understand reasons for this malpractice, especially in
view of the fact that often not even the best clinical examination, carried
out by the best professional, makes it possible to highlight the location
of a possible lesion, neither the extent of it nor, much less, to issue a
prognosis. Ultrasonography has been used for 15 years in the evalua-
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tion of the bull’s reproductive system, with the same equipment used for
gynecological diagnosis (Ginther, 1995; Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and
Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). With this article, authors want to show how to
incorporate the ultrasound technique in the BSE, demonstrating its ability
to adapt to any environment.
3.2 BREEDING SOUNDNESS EVALUATION
The BSE is not a fertility test, but a systematic clinical approach to identify
bulls with low reproductive potential (Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009). It
includes clinical examination of the bull, semen collection, and evaluation
(Kastelic and Thundathil, 2008; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009; 2010; Kastelic
and Brito, 2012). This test is designed to evaluate the fertility of a bull before
it is destined for reproduction (or semen production), but it is also used to
establish the cause or causes of infertility of a bull already in production
(Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
Generally, it can be said that the BSE traditionally includes three
general evaluations:
1. Determination of the scrotal circumference
2. Inspection and palpation (superficial and deep) of external and
internal genitalia
3. Evaluation of seminal quality
In more recent years, it has been proposed to incorporate ultrasonog-
raphy into BSE (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010;
Kastelic and Brito, 2012), as well as biochemical tests, such as the deter-
mination of adiponectin (Kasimanickam et al., 2013).

3.2.1 ULTRASONOGRAPHY AND ANDROLOGICAL EXAMINATION
The ultrasound examination is a complementary test that is incorporated

into the BSE and should always follow the clinical examination. It is a
mistake to do ultrasound of the testicle and/or vesicular glands without
first having done a complete clinical examination. It is a minimally inva-
sive examination, especially in comparison with a biopsy, the result of
which was especially questioned by the risk of production of anti-sperm
antibodies, which may be a consequence of this examination. Recently,
however, emphasis has again been placed on biopsy (Chapwanya et al.,
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2008). It is economically advantageous and allows us to obtain a photo-
graph of the bull’s reproductive system in real time, but especially, it
is not an invasive examination (Ginther, 1995; Gnemm 2007; Gnemmi
and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010; Kastelic and Brito, 2012). The ultrasound
examination is necessary because with the clinical examination it is often
not possible to identify the type of lesion present, its location/extension
and above all it does not allow a prognosis to be made (Gnemmi, 2007;
Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). As in the case of semen evaluation,
it is not always possible to determine the location of the lesion (Gnemmi
2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). It is a safe, minimally invasive
and non-traumatic technique, unlike biopsy (Roberts, 1986; MacGowan et
al., 2002; Goovaerts et al., 2006).
Ultrasound examination is considered necessary whenever there is
a poor semen quality such as (Rault and Gèrard, 2006; Gnemmi, 2007;
Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010):
1. Presence of abnormal spermatozoa
2. Low sperm concentration
3. Low viability after thawing
4. Presence of piospermias and/or azoospermia, or if it’s discovered
(Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010)
5. Presence of testicular inflammation or presence of abnormal testes
in form and/or size
6. Presence of pain for no clear reason
The ultrasound examination should be a routine examination, both
in semen production centers and in the case of bulls used for natural
service. This examination should be performed whenever there have been
quali–quantitative alterations to the straws produced, or as a preventive

measure, 2–4 weeks before the bull begins the mounting period (Gnemmi,
2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
3.2.1.1 PREPARATION OF THE BULL
It is essential to work ensuring both the respect of the animals and the safety
of the operator. Thus, regardless of the age, size and temperament of the
bull, ultrasonography must be carried out under appropriate conditions,
which guarantee the possibility of an optimal ultrasonographic examination,
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without risk and without the possibility of the bull being injured.
In order to do this, we must ensure the following paragraphs:
1. First evaluate the animal’s attitude before approaching it.
2. The examination must be carried out in a favorable environmental
condition. Away from noise, avoiding sudden noises. Speaking
only when necessary and always in a moderate tone.
3. Place the animal in the operating box: check that both the operator
and the bull are in a safe condition. It is important that the box
is adequate to the size and strength of the animal. Inspect the
box before entering the bull, carefully checking that there are no
protruding points that could be dangerous to the safety of the bull
itself (Fig. 3.1).
4. Before approaching the bull, allow the animal a few minutes to
adapt to the new situation.
5. Warn the bull of its presence. Talk to the bull in a low tone, patting
it on the head, neck, withers, chest, and rump.
6. Evaluate the bull’s reaction to palpation. If the bull shows exces-
sive aggressiveness, light sedation may be used.
7. To sedate a bull, xylazine (0.02 mg/kg) or diazepam (0.05 mg/kg)
can be used. In the case of very nervous animals and/or in the case
of some breeds or fighting bulls, the recommended doses can also
be increased by 50–100%.
8. Before resorting to sedation, in an attempt to calm the bull, ejacu-
lation can be stimulated. After mounting the bull tends to be more
relaxed, calm, and easier to handle, and also the testicles will be
more pendulum. Ejaculation prior to ultrasonographic examina-
tion will discharge the ampulla from the vas deferens and vesicular
glands. However, it should be remembered that electroejaculation

increases the temperature of the skin of the scrotum covering the

tail of the epididymis, and therefore alters the infrared scrotal
thermogram (i.e. the evaluation of the surface temperature of the
scrotum), and it is not known how it affects the ultrasound image

(MacGowan et al., 2002).
9. Proceed to palpation of the testicles, head and tail of epididymis,
and spermatic cord. This palpation serves to alert the bull of our
presence, at the same time as allowing the particular clinical
examination.
10. In case of hyperkeratosis and/or scleroderma, present especially in
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winter in old bulls, before the ultrasound examination it is good to
degrease the surface of the skin of the area to be scanned (testicle
and spermatic cord) with alcohol.
11. Before applying the gel, it is good to wet the surface of the seat to
be examined with water at 35–38°C, in order to soften the surface,
which allows a better adhesion of the ultrasound gel.
12. It is possible to make the ultrasound examination without using
the gel, but with alcohol. In winter, especially in old bulls with
very thick scrotum skin and keratosis, this is not a good alterna-
tive. In the summer, especially when working at high temperatures
(>25–27 °C), the alcohol evaporates very quickly.
13. In summer, the gel should be kept refrigerated to avoid an exces-
sive decrease in density.
14. If the gel is kept refrigerated, or in winter, when it is kept at room
temperature, before applying it to the surface you wish to examine,
check that it is not too cold. The gel also has a softening action on
the skin and prevents air from remaining between the hairs of the
scrotum, which makes ultrasound examination impossible.
3.2.1.2 EQUIPMENT
Ultrasound of the bull’s reproductive system is performed with the same

equipment used in bovine gynecological diagnosis. An ultra-portable,
portable, or non-portable ultrasound machine with a linear transducer of
5.0–7.5 MHz (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010). Sectoral
transducers are not normally used because their spherical surface is poorly
adapted to the surface of the testicles. In addition to the 5.0–7.5 MHz linear
transducer, an 8–11 MHz probe (T-Line), normally used in tendons and
ligaments in equine clinics, can be used. This probe allows a more accurate
evaluation of small lesions (Gnemmi 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
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FIGURE 3.1 Operating box or squeeze chute, the necessary facility for working with bulls.

Even the linear or convex probe 2.0–5.0 MHz is very useful, allowing
a simultaneous evaluation of the testicular parenchyma of both testicles
in pubescent bulls. The 5.0 MHz probe is no longer able to guarantee
sufficient depth. With a frequency of 2.0–3.0 MHz, it is possible to deter-

mine the total depth of the two, even in the testicles of a large adult bull.
The ultrasound is performed by direct apposition of the transducer, after
the application of ultrasound gel. The use of silicone pads is not necessary
(Fig. 3.2).
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FIGURE 3.2 Ultrasound testicle examination: In sagittal view location of the probe is
parallel to the long axis of the testicle. Also, it allows the evaluation of the parenchyma of
both testicles.
3.2.1.3 ULTRASOUND TECHNIQUE
The ultrasound examination is an absolutely risk-free examination. To

check for possible damage to the seminal quality and/or quality of the

testicular parenchyma, a young beef bull was subjected to an ultrasound

of the testicles, using a 5 MHz linear transducer, prior to semen extraction
twice a week, for about 10 weeks (Coulter and Bailey, 1988).
A spermatogenesis cycle lasts about 70 days. The bull’s testicles

subjected to ultrasound evaluation were examined after this period, evalu-
ating weight and morphology and also taking into account the amount
of sperm present in the epididymis and semen production in general,
including any anomaly (Coulter and Bailey, 1988). In this case, it was not
possible to demonstrate any effect on semen quality.
The ultrasound examination is carried out by placing it on the posterior
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or lateral side of the bull. In the case of very nervous bulls, it is advisable
to maintain an elevated hind limb (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre,
2010). It is advisable to carry out the examination in the dark, especially
if working with LCD screens. It is possible to protect the screen of the
ultrasound by the light, by means of a canvas or an umbrella, creating a
shadow or resorting to the special cylinders that are applied to the screen.
There is also the possibility of using cameras mounted on special glasses
or handheld screens, or ultralight screens, connected through Bluetooth to
the ultrasound unit.
3.2.1.3.1 External Genitalia
3.2.1.3.1.1 Testicles
First, a comparative evaluation of the two testicles should be carried
out, taking the total depth. This measure, although not yet coded, may
be an alternative to scrotal circumference. Unlike the latter, it is more
faithful to reality, because it allows the testicular parenchyma to be
measured specifically. The scrotal circumference may not reflect reality,
for example, in the case of hydro-pio-haematocele (Gabor et al., 1996).
After the comparative study of the two testicles, we examine each testicle
separately. The right hand holds the left testicle, pushing it down, while
the thumb and index finger of the same hand push the right testicle up
(Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010). Then, with the left hand,
the right testicle is taken, making the same movements that we have just
mentioned. We generate longitudinal and transversal cuts or sections. In
the longitudinal section, the main axis of the ultrasound probe is parallel

to the major axis of the testicle. In the cross-section, the main axis of the
probe is perpendicular to the major axis of the testicle (Gnemmi, 2007;
Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
In the longitudinal section it’s evaluated:

1. Testicular parenchyma
2. Mediastinum
3. Length of testicle
4. Width of testicle
5. Albugineous tunic
6. Vaginal Tunic
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7. Epididymis (head and tail)
In the cross-section, it’s evaluated:
1. Testicular parenchyma
2. Mediastinum
3. Width of testicle
4. Albugineous tunic
5. Vaginal Tunic
6. Epididymis (head and tail)
3.2.1.3.1.2 Epididymis
It is possible to evaluate the head and tail of the epididymis. In the longi-
tudinal section, but only in young bulls (with small testicles), it is possible
to jointly evaluate the head and tail of the epididymis. In adult bulls,
the head or tail can be evaluated, with both longitudinal and transverse
sections.
3.2.1.3.1.3 Spermatic Cord
The spermatic cord grows to 14 months of age (Kastelic and Thundathil,
2008). The spermatic cord is circumscribed by the vaginal tunic (visceral
and parietal lamina lamina); inside is the pampiniform plexus, formed by
the two testicular veins and the tortuous testicular artery. The two testicular
veins communicate with each other and form an extraordinary tangle of
vessels near the artery. The vas deferens also form a part of the spermatic
cord. Outside the vaginal tunic is the crematorium muscle. The spermatic
cord is always evaluated with a posterior approach, in the transversal
sections or with a longitudinal section.

3.2.1.3.1.4 Penis
The penis is boarded laterally. It is evaluated mainly in the cross-section.
Before carrying out the ultrasound examination of the penis, you should
shave the area with electric razor blade No. 40 and apply plenty of gel. The
probe is moved perpendicular to the main axis of the cranio-caudal penis
to verify the presence of any swelling (hematoma, abscess) (Gnemmi,
2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
3.2.1.3.2 Internal Genitalia
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3.2.1.3.2.1 Ampoules
The approach is posterior. After the fecal matter is evacuated from the
rectum, the catheter is inserted trying to create a good contact with the
rectal area. First, a longitudinal section, right and left, and then a cross-
section (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
3.2.1.3.2.2 Vesicular Glands
rectum, the catheter is inserted trying to create a good contact with the
rectal area. First a longitudinal section, right and left, and then a cross-
section, sliding the probe in a cranio-caudal direction (Gnemmi, 2007;
Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
3.2.1.3.2.3 Bulb-Urethral Glands
rectum, the catheter is inserted trying to create a good contact with the rectal
area. Given the very caudal location of the bulbo-urethral glands, the probe
is inserted into the rectum the length of the hand (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi
and Lefebvre, 2010).
3.2.1.3.2.4 Prostate
The approach is posterior. Both the body and the disseminated portion of the
prostate can be seen. After the fecal matter is evacuated from the rectum, the
catheter is inserted trying to create a good contact with the rectal area. First,
a longitudinal, right, and left section is performed, and then a cross-section,
sliding the cranial-caudal probe (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).

3.2.1.3.2.5 Urethra
The approach is posterior. After the fecal matter is evacuated from the rectum,
the catheter is inserted trying to create a good contact with the rectal area.
First a longitudinal section, right and left, and then a cross-section, sliding the
craniocaudally probe (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
3.2.1.4 ULTRASOUND ANATOMY
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The normal testicle has a moderate, homogeneous echogenicity, very
similar to the echogenicity of the corpus luteum. The echogenicity of the
testicles increases with sexual maturity as a consequence of an increase in
the density of the testicles (Kastelic and Brito, 2012).
The echogenicity of the rete testis increases between 20 and 40 weeks
of life. This period is characterized by a greater growth capacity of the
seminiferous tubules (Evans et al., 1996; Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and
Lefebvre, 2010). In breeds of Bos taurus for meat production (Angus,
Charolais, Hereford and their crosses), the greatest increase in echogenicity
is between 20 and 46 weeks of age (Kastelic and Brito, 2012). In crosses Bos
taurus x Bos indicus, the increase in testicular density is delayed, compared
to bulls Bos taurus. The maximum testicular intensity develops between
49 and 62 weeks of age (Brito et al., 2004). These changes in testicular
density occur simultaneously with histological changes in the pre-pubertal
testicles and indicate the differentiation of Sertoli cells, the formation of the
blood–testis barrier (BTB), the increase in the diameter of seminiferous
tubules, the increase in the volume of testicular parenchyma occupied by
seminiferous tubules, and also a rapid growth of all germ cells and the
onset of spermatogenesis (Brito et al., 2012; Kastelic and Brito, 2012). It
has been shown that in Bos indicus and Bos Taurus individuals and their
crosses older than 18 months, the density of the testicular parenchyma
does not change. This leads us to believe that the composition of the
testicular parenchyma remains almost constant after puberty (Brito et al.,
2003; Kastelic and Brito, 2012); the sensitivity–specificity of ultrasound
evaluation of testicular density to evaluate sexual precocity (early vs. late),
puberty (no puber vs. puber), and sexual maturity (not good seminal quality

vs. good seminal quality) is not statistically superior to the determination of

scrotal circumference (Brito et al., 2004, 2012; Kastelic and Brito, 2012).
The possibility of individual variations in testicular density, easy to find,
especially in young bulls near puberty, should also not be underestimated.

These individual variations make it difficult to define a cut-off point for
density (Brito et al., 2012; Kastelic and Brito, 2012). The presence of
echogenic (white) or hypo-echogenic/anechogenic foci is generally related
to testicular parenchymal pathologies. With a transversal section, in the
central part of the testicles, the mediastinum (2–4 mm) can be seen as an
echogenic star (white). Similarly, in a longitudinal section (Fig. 3.3), the
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rete testis can be seen as a thin echogenic band (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi
and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). The parietal and visceral vaginal tunic are thin
and hyper-echogenic, separated by a thin echogenic line (2 mm). The space
between the two layers increases in the case of hydropium or hematocele.
Under the vaginal tunic, the albuginea tunic is seen as a thin echogenic line
(Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010).
FIGURE 3.3 Ultrasonographyc appearance of testicular image in longitudinal section. S:

scrotal skin; TA: tunica albuginea; TV: tunica vaginalis; TP: testicular parenchyma; TM:
testicular mediastinum.

3.2.1.4.1.2 Head of Epididymis
The head of the epididymis is near the dorsal part of the testicle, under the
pampiniform plexus (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010).
Ultrasound examination to reveal the head of the epididymis is not always

easy. Oblique sections are usually used. The head of the epididymis is
clearly more echogenic than the testicular parenchyma and contrasts well
with the anechogenicity of the vessels belonging to the pampiniform
plexus.
3.2.1.4.1.3 Body of the Epididymis
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The body of the epididymis, if there is no pathological dilation (sperm
cysts), is not easily visible. The body of the epididymis runs along the
medial side of each testicle (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009,
2010; Kastelic and Brito, 2012). In the longitudinal section, there is a
small anechogenic conduit, whose walls are weakly echogenic.
3.2.1.4.1.4 Tail of the Epididymis

The tail of the epididymis is the most accessible part of the epididymis,
located in the ventral part of the testicle with the typical conical shape
(Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). The tail of the
epididymis is visualized ultrasonographically by means of oblique
transversal cuts. A small linear probe (TLine) produces excellent
images thanks to the reduced contact surface of the probe itself. The tail
of the epididymis seems less echogenic than the testicular parenchyma,
but above all less homogeneous. It differs very well from the testicles
(Fig. 3.4).
In the spermatic cord, the presence of the pampiniform plexus is domi-
nant, characterized by tortuous anechogenic ducts. Only through the use
of color Doppler, it is possible to distinguish the arterial branches of the
dense network of venous anastomosis, forming a part of the plexus.
3.2.1.4.1.5 Penis
The albugineous tunic surrounds the penis and looks echogenic. Inside
you can see the cavernous body hypoechogenic and homogeneous.
Ventrally, near the catheter you can see the spongy body, which is also
hypoechogenic, inside which you can see the urethra, as a virtual anecho-
genic space.

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FIGURE 3.4 Epididymis evaluation: To evaluate the tail of the epididymis, each testicle is
pushed toward the bottom of the scrotum. TP: testicular parenchyma; Tep: tail of epididymis.
Spermatic cord.
3.2.1.4.2.1 Ampoule
The two ampoules deferens are located cranially and dorsally with respect
to the bladder neck (anechogenic). They are the most cranial glands of the
entire glandular system. They have a tubular shape and are, on average,
10–12 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. In cross-section, they appear as two small
hypoechogenic structures with an anechogenic light (Gnemmi and Lefe-
bvre, 2009, 2010).
Located near each of the corresponding vas blisters, they branch out near
the bladder neck. They have an oblong shape and under physiological
conditions the size is proportional to the age of the animal.

In general, we can say that the vesicular glands have a size in relation
to the age of the bull (Table 3.1). Echographically, they have the same
echogenicity of a compact corpus luteum being of moderate echogenicity
and physiologically homogeneous (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefe-

bvre, 2009; 2010) (Fig. 3.5).
TABLE 3.1 Size of the Vesicular Glands, According to the Age of the Bull (Buczinski,
2008).
Age Length Thick Width
1 year 7.0–9.0 cm 1.5–2.0 cm 1.5–2.5 cm
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5 year 10–15 cm 2.0–4.0 cm 3.0–7.0 cm
FIGURE 3.5 Ultrasonographic evaluation of the vesicular gland. 1: Normal vesicular

gland lobes.
3.2.1.4.2.3 Bulbourethral Glands
They are the most caudally located glands of the entire glandular system.
They are not detectable by rectal palpation, as they are covered by the

bulbous spongy muscle (Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). Although

they are not easily identifiable by ultrasound, they have an ovoid or
fusiform shape with an average diameter of 2 cm. Echographically, they
appear hypoechogenic in comparison with m. bulb-spongiosum.
The prostate is divided anatomically into two parts: the body and the
disseminated part. The body is located in correspondence with the
bladder neck, measures approximately 3.4 × 1.5 cm; the disseminated
part is approximately 12 cm long and cannot be detected by palpation
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(Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010). The prostate, especially the disseminated
part, is detectable in the longitudinal and transverse section during evalu-
ation of the pelvic urethra. The prostate disseminated in the longitudinal
section appears as a hypoechogenic band between the dorsal and ventral
muscle of the urethra, which tends to be echogenic (darker) (Gnemmi and
Lefebvre, 2009).
3.2.1.4.2.5 Urethra
The pelvic urethra extends between the bladder neck and a horizontal
line corresponding to the ischial tuberosities. It has a length of about
20 cm and a diameter of about 3 cm (Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009). It
is detectable both longitudinally and transversally. In this last section
(Fig. 3.6), the C-shaped urethral muscle is observed, and tends to be
echogenic (darker), with the thicker part ventrally placed (Gnemmi and
Lefebvre, 2010).
3.2.1.5 ULTRASOUND OF PATHOLOGIES
The testicular parenchyma may be affected by inflammatory, degenerative,
and neoplastic processes. However, it can also present cysts and torsion
(Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). In some cases, the
scrotum may also be involved in a pathological process: accumulation
of fluid (hydro, hemato, or pio-cele) or inguinal hernia. Hydrocele is an
accumulation of fluid between the parietal and visceral layers of the tunica

albuginea. The virtual space (2 mm), which normally separates the two
sheets, widens and becomes more evident (anechogenic space). Hydrocele
is usually the result of torsion of the spermatic cord, but may be associ-
ated with testicular neoplasms, orchitis, or cardiac or renal pathologies

(Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
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FIGURE 3.6 Ultrasonographic evaluation of the pelvic urethra. 1: urethra, 2: vesicular
glands (right and left), and 3: ampulla of the deferent (right and left).
Hematocele is an accumulation of blood between the leaves of the

vaginal tunic. To the ultrasound initially it appears anechogenic, with
diverse echogenic points (red blood cells). At an advanced stage, hyper-
echogenicity will appear. The cause may be testicular trauma or torsion
of the testicles. In the case of bacterial contamination of unhydrocele or
hematocele, a piocele may develop, which echographically resembles a
snowstorm: an anechoic background with a series of echogenic points
(Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010).

3.2.1.5.1.2 Orchitis
In acute forms, the testicle shows an increase in volume and appears warm
to the touch. Echographically, the testicular parenchyma loses its usual
homogeneity and tends to appear echogenic. In the case of chronic inflam-

mation, areas of parenchyma can be seen, completely replaced by a bright
hyperechogenic thickening (fibrosis, calcification), below which evident
artifacts, such as shadow cones (shadows) (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and
Lefebvre, 2009, 2010).
3.2.1.5.1.3 Hematoma
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Hematomas usually have a traumatic base and are just below the surface.
Their size is variable due to the trauma that created them. Echographically,
they are observed hypoehcogenic (dark) in comparison with the testicular
parenchyma that surrounds them. Their presence is always accompanied
by pain.
3.2.1.5.1.4 Fibrosis
Fibrosis is observed as an echogenic thickening, hyperechogenic more or
less large, more or less widespread, by virtue of which, if the acoustic
density is high, the cone of shadow (shadow) can be seen (Fig. 3.7). Often,
especially in bulls, it can highlight an echogenic thickening, hyperecho-
genic, without the company of shadows. In the absence of these artifacts,
it is difficult to correlate densification to poor semen quality (Gnemmi,
2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010).
In the presence of fibrosis, there is always poor quality (azoospermia)—
quantity of semen. A recent study of these areas of “fibrosis” (Barth and
Oko, 1989) has allowed us to bring to light, especially in prepubertal bulls
(5–6 months) with “fibrosis”, with a tendency to grow in number and
extension, in the same animals when they reach 12–14 months of age. The
cause of these lesions is not known; it is assumed that they may be related
to respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) infections (Barth and Oko, 1989).
Histological examination of these lesions showed fibrous tissue between
the seminiferous tubules, with a reduction in the number of germ cells.
Some tubules were absolutely devoid of germ cells and Sertoli; however,
they were always devoid of inflammatory cells. No abnormalities in sperm
morphology have been observed in mild or moderate cases of testicular
fibrosis (Barth and Oko, 1989; Kastelic and Brito, 2012).

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FIGURE 3.7 Ultrasonagraphic appearance of a testicular image in longitudinal section
with fibrosis (white circles).
3.2.1.5.1.5 Hypoplasia
It can be uni- or bilateral. In any case, bulls with hypoplasia, even unilateral
should never be used for breeding. The testicles are smaller in volume and
less consistent to the touch. Echographically, the testicular parenchyma
tends to be anechogenic (dark), although the mediastinum appears poorly
echogenic and is often difficult to see (Fig. 3.8).
3.2.1.5.1.6 Abscess
The abscess capsule appears echogenic more or less bright. Inside you
can see pus in the form of a snowstorm, but only at an early stage. Then
appears the interior of the echogenic abscess, hyper-echogenic (if replaced
by a connective tissue-calcification) and heterogeneous (Gnemmi and
Lefebvre, 2009, 2010).
3.2.1.5.1.7 Neoplasia
It is possible to find interstitial cell tumors, Sertoli cell tumors, and
seminomas. The swelling is not always visible or palpable from the

outside. Echographically, it is seen that the testicular parenchyma loses

its homogeneity and hypoechogenic, echogenic, hyperechogenic areas
are seen, often alternating with liquid (anechoic), limited by an echogenic
capsule, sometimes several millimeters thick. The diagnosis of type cannot

be done by ultrasound, but histologically (biopsy) (Gnemmi and Lefebvre,
2009, 2010).
FIGURE 3.8 Testicle hypoplasia. Author Copy

3.2.1.5.1.8 Cyst
Within the testicular parenchyma it is possible to see small cysts, ultrasono-
graphically anechogenic. They are not related to subfertility or infertility:
the quality and quantity of semen are generally not affected. Testicular cysts
should not be confused with dilation of the central vein of the testicles:
differential diagnosis requires color Doppler.
3.2.1.5.1.9 Epididymal Head
The most frequent pathology of the head of the epididymis are abscesses.
Its capsule may be a few millimeters thick, echogenic, while the content
is heterogeneous: there may be hyperechogenic areas (calcification),

along with hypoechogenic areas. Cysts of the head of the epididymis with
hypoechogenic areas within the tissue have also been reported (Matuszewka
and Sysa, 2002).
3.2.1.5.1.10 Epididymal Tail
Inflammation of the tail of the epididymis is the most common pathology
of this anatomical part. In the acute phase of inflammation, the tail of
the epididymis increases in size and becomes painful on palpation and
ecohgenic. When the process becomes chronic, the tail of the epididymis
is very heterogeneous and hypoechogenic, probably due to the presence
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of edema. You can also see some hyperechogenic zones (Gnemmi and
Lefebvre, 2009, 2010).
3.2.1.5.1.11 Spermatic Cord
It is possible to find inflammation, torsion of the spermatic cord in various
degrees, varicocele, which can be considered the most frequent pathology
in this anatomical location (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009,
2010). The varicocele is a consequence of a malfunction of the valvular
system of the two sperm veins; the veins dilate, then the ultrasound, you
will see an anecogenic tortuosity more or less dilated. Mild varicocele
is physiological in old bulls. The varicocele, if it does not reach a high
degree, is not related to infertility. The diagnosis of varicocele is confirmed
with Doppler color. The torsion of the spermatic cord is paraphysiological
in the old bull and is not related to infertility. If the torsion exceeds 180°,
clinical symptoms appear: dilation of the ventral spermatic cord at torsion,
with an increase in testicular volume (hydrocele), increase or decrease of
the echogenicity of the testicles (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre
2009, 2010). It is possible to find hyperplasia of the lymphatic tissue of
the spermatic cord (BLV): the hyperplastic gland induces compression of
the pampiniform plexus, it could also induce the formation of hydrocele.
Hyperplastic lymphatic tissue looks hypoechogenic (Gnemmi and Lefe-
bvre, 2009).
3.2.1.5.1.12 Penis
The pathological forms of ultrasound interest at this anatomical location
are abscesses and hematomas. Abscesses are usually located between
the foreskin and scrotum and usually develop as a complication of a

hematoma. The hyperechoic capsule of the abscess, which circumscribes

a heterogeneous area, containing hyperechogenic, echogenic and anecho-
genic subareas, can be seen ultrasonographically. However, the ultrasound
aspect of the penile abscess changes over time: the older the abscess, the
greater its echogenicity (Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). The hema-
toma of the penis is normally formed by the rupture of the dorsal surface
of the tunica albuginea, with blood coming out of the corpus cavernosum.
Therefore, the greater the rupture of the albugineous tunic, the larger the
hematoma that forms. Often, the hematoma of the penis is accompanied
by a prolapse of the foreskin, which is in fact the reason, in many cases,
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why the bull is checked. Echographically, the hematoma of the penis is
presented as a multilobular mass with heterogeneous ehcogenicity, covered
by an echogenic capsule (Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2010).
3.2.1.5.2.1 Ampoule
Pathologies are not usually described in this location.
Inflammation of the vesicular gland is the most common pathology affecting
this anatomical site; however, with a low frequency (9%) (Bagshaw and
Ladds, 1974; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). Acute forms are charac-
terized by glandular hypertrophy, palpation pain, and sometimes localized
pelvic peritonitis (Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010).
The gland is ultrasonographically enlarged and hypoechogenic. In case of
abscess, it is possible to see an echogenic capsule, which circumscribes a
more or less extended area, such as a snowstorm. In the case of unilateral
inflammation, the comparison of the two glands makes diagnosis easier
(Gnemmi, 2007; Gnemmi and Lefebvre, 2009, 2010). In the case of
acute infection and abscess formation, leukocytosis is always present,
even piospermia. In chronic inflammation, the gland is slightly enlarged,
and fibrosis may occur, making it ultrasound more echogenic and bright
compared to normal contralateral. Hypertrophy of the vesicular gland
should always be considered as a pathology in the young animal, whereas
it is a paraphysiological condition in old bulls.

3.2.1.5.2.3 Bulb-Urethral Glands
3.2.1.5.2.5 Urethra
Normally the pelvic urethra cannot be seen ultrasonographically, but
it appears as a virtual space. A dilation of the urethra, which appears in
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longitudinal section as an anechogenic channel, may be the consequence
of urethral obstruction/stenosis, urethritis, or urolithiasis (Gnemmi and
Lefebvre, 2009, 2010).
3.3 CONCLUSIONS
Some authors have shown that a small testicular degeneration cannot be

diagnosed with an ultrasound examination, since the ultrasound aspect of
the testicle does not change (Sidibe et al., 1992; Brito et al., 2003; Arteaga
et al., 2005). But we must also ask ourselves if these same microscopic
lesions were/are always correlated with quantitative changes in semen.
The ultrasound density of the testicles was statistically correlated with the
production of semen (Brito et al., 2012; Kastelic and Brito, 2012), but
not with the volume of the ejaculate, much less with the concentration of
sperm or the total amount of sperm in the ejaculate (Gabor et al., 1996;
Brito et al., 2012). In some studies, it has been impossible to demonstrate
the correlation between the density of the ultrasound of the testicles and
the quality of the semen (Gabor et al., 1998; Brito et al., 2003; Kastelic
and Brito, 2012). In these studies, however, they have tried to demonstrate
a correlation between semen quality and testicular density, determined on
the same day as the ultrasound, when we know that spermatogenesis lasts
about 70 days. Therefore, the ultrasound density of the testicle must be
related to the quality of semen that will be produced 60–70 days after the
ultrasound (Barth and Oko, 1989; Brito et al., 2004; Arteaga et al., 2005;
Kastelic and Brito, 2012). Practically, the ultrasound density of the testicle
has a predictive value, rather than giving a snapshot of the situation at the
time of determination. Ultrasound examination of the bull’s reproductive
system requires statistical validation to standardize the technique. Despite

of this, it is a test that must be included in a BSE. It is a convenient,

minimally invasive test, capable of determining the source of a problem
and its severity, also offering the possibility of providing a prognosis.
Ultrasound examination, together with scrotal thermography, is surely

the most interesting technique that the clinician currently has available to
make a diagnosis under field conditions.
KEYWORDS
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•• bull
•• breeding soudness evaluation
•• ultrasound
•• andrological examination
•• reproductive pathologies
REFERENCES
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Pixel-Intensity Of Testicular Ultrasonograms After Scrotal Insulation In Beef Bulls.
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In Northern Australia. Austral. Vet. J. 1974, 50, 489–495.
Barth, A. D.; Oko, R. J. Abnormal Morphology of Bovine Spermatozoa; Iowa State
University Press: Ames, 1989; pp 23–24.
Brito, L. F.; Barth, A. D.; Wilde, R. E.; Kastelic, J. P. Testicular Ultrasonogram Pixel
Intensity During Sexual Development And Its Relationship With Semen Quality, Sperm
Production, And Quantitative Testicular Histology In Beef Bulls. Theriogenology 2012,
78(1), 69–76.
Brito, L. F.; Silva, A. E.; Barbosa, R. T.; Unanian, M. M.; Kastelic, J. P. Effects Of Scrotal
Insulation On Sperm Production, Semen Quality, And Testicular Echotexture In Bos
Indicus And Bos Indicus X Bos Taurus Bulls. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 2003, 79, 1–15.
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Taurus Crossbred Bulls In Brazil. Theriogenology 2004, 62, 1198–1217.
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Coulter, G. H.; Bailey, D. R. Effects Of Ultrasonography On The Bovine Testis And Semen
Quality. Theriogenology 1988, 30, 743–749.
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Gabor, G.; Szasz, F.; Sasser, G.; Bozo, S.; Völgyi, J.; Barany, I. In Using Digitized Video
Method For The Measuring Of Testes Sizes And Prediction The Testis Volume In Bulls,
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Publishing: Cross Plains, WI, USA, 1995.
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bovina, a cura di G. Sali. Le Point Veterinaire Italie 2013, 5, 89–118.
Gnemmi, G. Place de l’echographie du taureau en pratique. Le Point Veterinaire 2007,
275, 40–45.
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L., Colloton, J., Gnemmi, G., Eds.; Wiley-Blackwell: New York, 2010, 9, pp 143–162.
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Important Field Of Expertice For Veterinarians. Vet. Clin. Food. Anim. 2009, 25, 767–779.
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ad un vecchio problema. Summa Animali da Reddito 2007, 5, 37–43.
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Bols, P. E. J. Evaluation Of Epididymal Semen Quality Using The Hamilton-Thorne
Analyzer Indicates Variation Between The Two Caudal Epididymides Of The Same Bull.
Kasimanickam, V. R.; Kasimanickam, R. K.; Kastelic, J. P.; Stevenson, J. S. Associations
Of Adiponectin And Fertility Estimates In Holstein Bulls. Theriogenology 2013, 79(5),
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Predicting Bull Fertility. Reprod. Domest. Anim. 2008, 43(2), 368–373.
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The Bull. Reprod. Dom. Anim. 2012, 47(3), 45–51.
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in the Male and avaluation of Breeding Soundness. In Veterinary Obstetrics and Genital
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Indianapolis IN, 2013.
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LH And Cortisol Concentrations, And On Testicular Ultrasonographic Appearance Of
Induced Testicular Degeneration In Bulls. Acta Vet. Scand. 1992, 33, 191–196.
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CHAPTER 4
Postpartum Management in Dairy Cows

CRISTINA MARABOLI1
Bovinevet Internacional, Bovine Ultrasound Services & Herd
1
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Management, Spain
2
and Experimental Sciences Catholic University of Valencia,
*
ABSTRACT
Modern cattle health management is basically based on prevention. This

approach finds its natural justification in the fact that today it is necessary
to guarantee the health of the consumer (through a proper and measured use
of medicaments, in particular antibiotics and chemotherapy) and animal
welfare. The economic aspect should not be underestimated: 70–75%
of the cost of a disease depends on the lack of production. It, therefore,
becomes natural to focus all health management on the prevention of
pathologies. In the transition phase almost 70% of all cattle diseases are
concentrated, therefore limiting the occurrence of diseases in this delicate
period to a minimum is of fundamental importance. Equally important is
the early diagnosis of sick cows, but above all the rapid identification of
cows at risk. Electronic devices capable of creating a daily attention list of
cows at risk of infirmity are available today. However, these systems can
be completed or replaced by a careful observation of post-calving cows,
integrating this clinical evaluation with collateral tests, which will allow
determining which animals are at risk, also allowing them to establish a
risk order.

4.1 INTRODUCTION
The transition period is a critical time for dairy cattle (Overton and Fetrow,
2008). Didactically, this period is identified during the 2–3 weeks prior
to delivery and the 2–3 weeks after delivery (Block, 2010). However,
we must face this “period” with some flexibility, especially today, that
nutritional management strategies, which until yesterday were considered
“indisputable,” are questioned (dry off and close up). For this reason, the
transition period could be started 30 days before the delivery and we could
end it with the end of the voluntary waiting time, or with the first artificial
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insemination (AI).
During the transition period, the cow suffers from physiological changes
(Goff et al., 1997; Drackley et al., 1999; Overton and Fetrow, 2008). The
cow is preparing for calving and milk production, events that, especially for
future primiparous heifers, they represent a true physiological “cyclone”
(LeBlanc, 2013, 2014).
We know that during the first part of the transition, ecological and
zootechnical environment conditions must be created such as the cancel-
lation or, at least, the drastic reduction of stress factors. In this way, the
dry matter intake can be maintained high; in the primiparous, never should
fall below 10–11 kg; while that in the cow, it should always be higher than
11–12 kg (Gnemmi et al., 2018).
Especially during the first part of lactation, the nutrients deviate greatly
toward the udder. The metabolism of glucose is altered and, as a consequence
of the resulting hypoglycemia, the mobilization of fat and protein reserves
begins (LeBlanc, 2013, 2014). The cow loses weight and cows that cannot
compensate for these imposing transitions can develop puerperal diseases,
that is, retention of fetal membranes, puerperal metritis, ketosis, abomasal
displacement, etc. (LeBlanc, 2013, 2014).
This situation can affect to a different extent, even 30–50% of the cows
(LeBlanc, 2010). The cows that develop pathologies during the transition
period are often compromised their productive/reproductive capacity.
Therefore, it is essential that the environmental and zootechnical manage-
ment be such that it reduces or cancels the risk of diseases in the pre- and
postpartum. In addition to this, we must try to identify the problem cows
as soon as possible.
The productive and reproductive performance of the cow and herd is
related to the incidence of different transition pathologies, but also, and
probably above all, to the ability to identify problem animals very early.
Postpartum Management in Dairy Cows 71
In this regard, it is essential to observe the cattle, trying to identify the

sick cows in each moment (Hulsen, 2003).
4.2 THE METHOD
Every postpartum pathology more or less compromises the animal’s

productive and reproductive performance. If we take for example two
pathologies of the uterus such as the retention of fetal membranes and
metritis, analyzing the cost, we can see that the higher cost item refers not
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to veterinary costs and/or to the costs for medicalization, but to the failure
production (Gnemmi et al., 2016) (Table 4.1).
In other studies, it has been seen that the cost of drugs is between 16 and
28% due to the use of an ampicillin or a third-generation cephalosporin,
respectively. The cost of elimination (different because of parity, produc-
tion, and Days in Milk (DIM) at the time of cow’s elimination) would affect
between 22 and 26%, whereas the reduction in reproductive performance
would affect the order of 28–33% (Overton and Fetrow, 2008).
Evaluating the cost of puerperal pathologies is a very complex
analysis; the four main cost chapters must be taken into consideration,
which in turn can be divided into 18 sub-chapters, of which veterinary
expenses, labor costs, the cost for medicalization, the cost of eliminating
contaminated milk from medicaments, and the lack of production are 5
of 18 items.
However, to look at it, it is clear that when a cow gets sick, the farmer
starts to lose money. This is especially related to the greater predisposition
of the bovine to develop, even in the postpartum, more than one puerperal
pathology. Due to the lack of production determined by the sanitary condi-
tions in which the cow is found, its state of health is compromised by the
greater risk that this animal develops other puerperal pathologies. For all
this, prevention on the one hand and the early identification of problem
cows take on fundamental importance.
The goal is not to have and/or drastically reduce the number of sick
cows during the transition period. This means focusing attention on four
fundamental points of the management program (Gnemmi et al., 2019):
• Nutritional management
• Environmental management (ecological and zootechnical environ-
ment) and cow comfort

Apple Academic Press 72
TABLE 4.1 Impact of Different Cost Items on the Complex RFM-Metritis and Endometritis.
Disease Day open cost >AI cost <Risk Total cost % Vet % Drug % Milk <Milk % Labor
(+ 30 dd) culling cost elim. prod. cost
RMF 180 € 88 € 85 € 1.439€ 6.9% 10.9% 0.5% 86.0% 2.6%

Metritis 180 € 88 € 85 € 1.469€ 8.8% 10.5% 6.4% 80.4% 2.7%
Endometritis 180 € 88 € 85 € 1.445€ 8.3% 4.4% 7.6% 88.8% 3.2%
Reprinted with permission from Gnemmi et al., 2016.

Biotechnologies Applied to Animal Reproduction
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• Handling drying period

• Prevention of pathologies (metabolic diseases, hypocalcemia, infec-
tion, etc.)
We must be able to identify sick cows and especially subclinical cows

as soon as possible. A cow with retained placenta and/or metritis is not
necessarily a sick cow. More than 50% of the cows with retention of the
fetal membranes do not develop fever, which means they undergo sponta-
neous healing (Gilbert, 2008) and 55–70% of the cows with metritis have
a spontaneous recovery (Santos et al., 2014) without where to resort to
therapy, especially to antibiotic therapy. The ability to manage postpartum,
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that is, limiting the use of antibiotics only to the cows that really need it,
has direct and indirect positive effects on the economic balance of the
herd, but also on the welfare of the herd and consumer health.
Today, there are electronic detection systems, a kind of artificial
intelligence, that allow the monitoring of several biological parameters.
These systems can be applied as ear tags or as necklaces (www.scrdairy.
com, 2019). They not only allow the identification of cows close to
heat and/or in heat, or with disorders of the reproductive sphere (cystic
degeneration of the ovaries), but also allow detecting body temperature,
hours of rumination, resting hours, and the hours that the cow spends
eating/drinking (www.scrdairy.com, 2019). These systems detect the state
of the animal every hour, sending all the information to a server, which
collects and classifies all this data. In practice, it is possible to verify in
real time the state (physiological or pathological, or close to the pathology)
of the bovine.
These systems are no longer the future, but the present and, undoubt-
edly, in the coming years, will become crucial in the raising of livestock,
especially in those farms that want to address the problem of reducing the
drug (antibiotics and hormones), to through the reduction of sick cows in
the transition period.
It is possible to monitor the herd in the postpartum period and iden-
tify the problems of the cows, even without the help of these techno-
logical supports. It is necessary to “only” observe the herd, very carefully,
observing everything that seems to be nonphysiological. The observation is
important; however, it is very useful to be able to recognize and remember
the problem of the cow (Table 4.2).
Observe the cows to understand what they are telling us. We often do
not understand what cows manifest, only because instead of observing

we limit ourselves to look superficially without knowing how to grasp

fundamental nuances.
TABLE 4.2 Postpartum Pathologies Acronyms.

RFM RP
Uterus Prolapse UP
Dystocia DS
Hypocalcemia HCa
Puerperal Metritis MT
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Ketosis K
Mastitis MS
Lameness LA
We must be able to observe or be educated in observation. It is neces-

sary to observe minutely and without prejudice (Hulsen, 2003).
What am I seeing? Why is it happening? What does it mean? Is it
an individual problem or does it concern more cows? Which cows are
interested in: all cows or just the lactating heifers? These are some of
the questions that an attentive observer, walking in the postpartum group
every morning, must ask themselves. It is necessary to observe the cow
completely, without leaving out the details. It is necessary to observe the
cow, but also the ecological and zootechnical environment in which the
cow is found. In practice, a precise evaluation of the cow is made both indi-
vidually and collectively, without neglecting to observe the environment
in which the cow lives, trying to understand the degree of adaptation and
satisfaction of the cow and the group toward the ecological environment
(light, climate, ventilation, cooling, flooring, berths, lanes, cleaning, etc.)
and zootechnical environment (nutrition, quality of human management,
etc.) in which the cow lives.
In this sense, an excellent strategy is to “write” in cows, between the
iliac tuberosity and the ischial tuberosity, indicating with an acronym, the
pathology that has affected the cow (Fig. 4.1).
On farms where the rectal temperature is detected daily in the first 10
days after calving, a row is applied every day, so that there are five rows on
the right and five rows on the left at the end of the temperature monitoring.
If the measured temperature is higher than 39.5°C, the line on the rump is
made in a different color, so that the person looking at the cow, even if he/

she does not detect her number, can determine from how many days she
delivered and, if so, when a thermal increase is determined (Fig. 4.2).
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FIGURE 4.1 Acronym indicating pathology of affected cow.

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FIGURE 4.2 Cow with high temperature; line on the rump is made in a different color.
4.3 MONITORING
The first problem that needs to be addressed is which animals focus our
attention.
All animals after parturition must be kept under control; however, this
does not mean that all cows must be visited daily. In small and medium
herds (<100 cows in milk), daily monitoring of each animal may be
feasible, but one wonders what the benefit of a daily visit of each post-
partum bovine might be.
There are many farms where all the cows of the group 0–10 DIM
are subjected to an intravaginal visit every 48 h (to verify the pres-
ence and type of vaginal discharge) and to a daily rectal exploration
to verify the uterine involution. Why carry out a manual exploration
of the vagina, being able to produce a precise and punctual diagnosis
without resorting to invasive methods? Let's not forget that, especially
in the primiparous, there may be postpartum vaginal lacerations: also,

for this reason, manual exploration of the vaginal vestibule, if possible,

should be avoided. All postpartum animals should be monitored daily,
but only sick or suffering animals should be visited. How to detect
these animals early?

Through observation and daily monitoring of the group 0–10 DIM,
it is possible to control the health status of the herd in the immediate
postpartum.
We have already seen that there is the possibility of controlling the
rectal temperature. In addition, it may be possible to control Body Condi-
tion Score (BCS), the ketosis test (Beta Hydroxy Butyrate [BHB]) level
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in blood or milk, rumen fill scoring, locomotion scoring, mobility scoring,
edema scoring, fecal scoring, metritis scoring, etc. Most of these evalua-
tions can be done mainly by observing the cows (Table 4.3).
TABLE 4.3 Bovine Monitoring Procedures.

Time Production RS LS MS AS RF BHB FS VD ES VL T
Every 24 h X X X X X X X X
Every 48 h X X
Every 72 h X X
Every 120 h X X
AS, abdominal shape; ES, edema score; FS, Fecal score; LS, locomotion score; MS,
mobility score; RF, respiratory frequency; RS, Rumen score; T, temperature; VD, vaginal
discharge; VL, vaginal laceration.
Before doing one or all of the different tests that we have discussed, it is
necessary to verify the production of each postpartum cow. A healthy cow
progressively increases milk production, from the first days of lactation. A
cow that does not produce milk and/or falls is a cow that must be observed
in a special way: there is always a problem at the base of this situation. All
herd management software can be configured so that cows that do not rise
to milk and/or that decrease milk production by 6–8%, compared to the
last milking, are brought to attention by the system. The clinician should
check these animals immediately.
Attention: controlling them does not necessarily mean visiting them.
First, verify that these animals are interested in the food and their score in
the rumen.

4.3.1 MILK PRODUCTION
A healthy cow, immediately after the delivery, begins to eat and then
increases its milk production progressively. A cow that does not increase
milk production, or that decreases milk production by 6–8% compared to
the last milking must be subjected to an accurate clinical examination as
soon as possible.
Every morning, before anything else, the person in charge of the
postpartum, must verify the production of all the animals of this group,
selecting those animals that have not increased or decreased production
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compared to the last milking. These animals must be visited as soon as
possible.
4.3.2 FRONTAL OBSERVATION
The frontal observation of the cows must be carried out carefully and with
great discretion. The cows must not be harassed but must be observed
without causing stress. We must observe the cows of this group, trying to
understand the hierarchies; but above all, it is fundamental to understand
if each cow is well in the group, or if there are reasons for stress and/or
tension.
It must be observed if the cow can easily access the food, if she can
access the water easily, and if there are comfortable bunks where the cow
can rest. It is also necessary to observe the location of the postpartum
group with respect to the rest of the farm.
4.3.2.1 INTERESTS IN FOOD
Observe the herd as it behaves in front of the food and observe the
interest in the food of each individual cow. Do the animals eat regularly?
Are there cows that are choosy? Are there cows that disturb the other
cows that want to eat? How much food do they grow on average each
morning in this group? Does the unloading of food occur regularly? Is
the mixture well made? Do cows have an appetite? If cows refuse food,
is it because they are not hungry (why?) or, because the mixture has
problems (smell)?

4.3.2.2 POSITION, MOVEMENT, AND TEMPERATURE OF THE EARS
A healthy cow is attentive to everything that surrounds it. The ears are an
excellent indicator of the state of the cow’s sensory. A healthy cow has
straight ears and moves whenever something catches the cow’s interest.
Low ears are an indicator of a cow’s malaise. Cold ears are an indication
that cows have fever: normally cold ears are an indication of a drop in skin
temperature of at least 3°C, which roughly corresponds to an increase in
the internal temperature of 1°C.
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4.3.2.3 HORNY SHINE, TEARING (KIND OF TEARING)
A healthy cow has bright corneas. The eyes follow with attention every-
thing that happens near the cow. A sick cow has opaque corneas and a
half-closed eye. The presence of excessive tearing can be an indication of
an ocular pathology. It is always necessary to verify if the tears are single
or bilateral. It is also necessary to verify what type of tearing is involved:
serous, mucopurulent, or purulent.
4.3.2.4 MUZZLE
The cow is an animal that cares very much for its personal hygiene!
A healthy cow constantly cleans the muzzle, which will be clean and
moist. In a sick cow, the muzzle will be dirty and dry. Also, pay attention
to the presence of nasal leaks: are they unilateral or bilateral? Are they
serous, mucus-purulent, or purulent? Are they odorless or stinky?
All these signs point the clinician toward a diagnosis of high or low
airway pathologies.
4.3.2.5 PRESENCE OF COUGH AND TYPE OF COUGH
The presence of cough, the frequency of cough, and the type of cough
(dry and oily) help the clinician to suspect a pathology of the respira-
tory system, but also allow hypotheses to be made about the site of the
pathology (upper or lower respiratory tract).

4.3.3 POSTERIOR OBSERVATION
The subsequent observation of the cows in the group 0–10 DIM allows
completing the clinical evaluation initiated with the frontal examination.

At the end of this observation, it will be decided if it is necessary to submit
the cow to a complete clinical visit.
4.3.3.1 RUMEN FILL SCORING
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One element that determines the health of the cow in transition and not
only in transition is its ability to ingest dry matter. In principle, we can say
that a cow that eats is not suffering and that the greater the ingestion of dry
matter, the less the risk of becoming sick.
An excellent indicator of the health of the cow is the Rumen Fill
Score or Rumen Score. A healthy rumen is an indication of a healthy
cow; therefore, the rumen score is indirectly an indicator of the cow’s
health status. Obviously, when evaluating the efficiency of rationing also
in the postpartum, the analysis must not be limited to the rumen score,
but other parameters must also be evaluated (palatability of the ration,
homogeneity of the ration, possibility of the animals to choose, amount of
food advanced, type of advanced food, etc.). However, for the technician
who must evaluate the postpartum group on a daily basis, the evaluation
of the rumen score is a precise and rapid indicator. It provides very useful
indications related to the quantity of food ingested and on the speed of
food transit in the last hours, which in turn are mainly related to the char-
acteristics of the forage, its structure, and the relationship between the
different nutrients (Hulsen, 2003).
The filling of the rumen depends on the amount of dry matter
ingested, the composition of the ration, the digestive capacity of the
rumen, and the speed of rumen transit. Rumen Fill Scoring is used to
monitor ingestion disorders and is based on a 5-point score: score 1,
the cow has not eaten anything in the last 24 h and score 5, the cow is
eating regularly. For simplicity, a score of 3 is proposed, where score 1
is a cow that does not eat at least 24 h (skin fold from hook bone falls
vertically, so hollow shape looks rectangular), score 3 that of a cow that
eats regularly and so enough.

4.3.3.2 UDDER OBSERVATION PERCENTAGE OF EDEMA SCORE
Pay attention to the size, shape, symmetry, presence of swellings (position,

number, size, and consistency), color, smell (inguinal sores, intra-mammary

sores), and presence of edema. Observe the teats (shape, size, direction,
and presence of lesion); check if the cow loses milk spontaneously.
The Edema Score is an important indirect indicator of the nutritional
and environmental management of the cow in the first part of the transition
period. The edema of the udder can be associated with a genetic predis-
position, but much more to an excess of sodium and/or potassium in the
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close-up ration, to very long dry period (> 70 days), to rations with low
content of magnesium or protein, to poor drainage lymphatic caused by
little space available for movement (overcrowding).
4.3.3.3 LOCOMOTION SCORE AND MOBILITY SCORE
The locomotion scoring makes it possible to make precise assessments

of foot health, establishing whether and which feet and hooves does a
disease possibly affect. The scoring used is 1–5, where 1 corresponds
to a healthy cow, 3 to a slight lameness, and 5 to a severely lame cow.
Sometimes, the locomotion scoring is ≥ 3, although there is no lameness;
this can occur in case of gastro-enteric diseases (foreign body syndrome,
abomasal volvulus, enteritis, etc.), abdominal diseases (peritonitis), or
diseases of the reproductive system (puerperal metritis and vaginal lacera-
tions). For this reason, in all cases of doubt, or when we want to ascertain
a diagnostic suspicion, mobility scoring should also be carried out. This is
a score ranging 0–4, where 0 corresponds to a cow with good or excellent
mobility, being able to walk with a uniform load rhythm on all four feet,
with a flat back; whereas score 3 corresponds to a cow unable to keep up
with the healthy herd and an uneven load on a limb that is immediately
identifiable or which cams with shortened strides and an arched back
(www.dairy.ahdb.org.uk).
4.3.3.4 SHAPE OF ABDOMEN
In healthy cows, observation of the abdominal form from the right side allows
a pear profile to be detected. The presence of an apple profile is an indication

of an abdominal pathology (peritonitis) or gastrointestinal (bloating rumen,

abomasum dilatation, abomasal volvulus, intestinal volvulus, etc.).
4.3.3.5 TYPE AND FREQUENCY OF BREATHING
The observation from the left side of the type and frequency of breathing
allows to establish if there are signs of a respiratory pathology that
involves the upper or lower respiratory tract, or if there is only an increase
in respiratory frequency associated with heat stress.
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4.3.3.6 OBSERVATION OF FECES
Faces are the expression of the cow’s digestive efficiency. It is necessary

to evaluate the consistency, color, smell, quantity, and quality of the undi-
gested material contained therein. Also, the “noise” that the fecal material
makes falling on the ground, once expelled by the rectum, gives us precise
indications.
The characteristics of the feces can also be determined by observing
the ventral part of the tail and the tuft of the tail: the cows with diarrhea
and/or who have had recent episodes of diarrhea have their tail smeared.
It is possible to carry out a fecal scoring: the score goes from 1 to 5. A
score 1 corresponds to a cow with glossy, creamy, homogeneous stools,
within which undigested parts are not visible or palpable. The score 5
corresponds to a cow with opaque stools, not homogeneous, inside which
there is a lot of undigested food (Hulsen, 2003).
4.3.3.7 VAGINAL DISCHARGE
Almost all cows immediately after delivery suffer from bacterial uterine
contamination (Sheldon et al., 2011). However, only a part of them develops
puerperal metritis, or gets sick. Most cows with postpartum uterine inflam-
mation undergo spontaneous recovery. However, it is essential to identify
the animals that fall ill with puerperal metritis early. Observation of vaginal
discharge, their quantity, consistency, color, and odor are useful to identify
these animals. All cows with vaginal discharge, very liquid, red-brown
putrid, must be observed with great attention (Sheldon et al., 2006).

4.3.3.8 OBSERVATION OF THE VAGINA
In the case of vaginal and/or cervix-vaginal lacerations, the cow may present
a locomotion scoring > 3, without lameness. A vaginal or cervix-vaginal

laceration is usually painful and can compromise the health of the cow,
which reduces up to suspending the feed intake, predisposing the cow to
other puerperal pathologies (ketosis, Left Displacement Abomasum (LDA),
etc.). In the presence of a locomotion score ≥ 3, in the absence of lameness,
always check for vaginal lacerations by opening the vulva.
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4.3.3.9 RECTAL TEMPERATURE
Rectal temperature is an excellent indicator of the health of the cow.

Usually, a cow with an acute puerperal metritis has a rectal temperature
> 39.5°C. However, the presence of fever is not indicative of a uterine
pathology or in another place: 48% of the cows manifest a thermal rise >
39.5°C at least once in the first 10 days postpartum, without having any
pathology of the reproductive system, or elsewhere (Wagner et al., 2007).
Rectal temperature detection can be an excellent strategy to impose a work
strategy based on animal observation: in the 10–15 s necessary to detect
rectal temperature with a digital thermometer, a good observer can verify:
1. Locomotion Scoring
2. Mobility Scoring
3. Rumen Fill Scoring
4. Presence of vaginal discharge and their analysis (color, odor, and
consistency)
5. Status of the udder (edema, swelling, symmetry, color, odor, loss
of milk, shape and size of the teats, etc.)
6. Shape of the abdomen
7. Frequency and type of breathing
Rectal temperature detection is therefore not the end, but the means by
which to train the dairy workers in charge of postpartum cows to observe.
In stables where the staff is attentive and well trained, it is possible to
avoid taking rectal temperatures to all the animals in the first 10 DIM,
limiting this detection only to the cows that actually need it. Normally, a
cow of the postpartum group, which increases its production, which eats
regularly, does not require rectal temperature measurement.

4.4 CODE DEFINITION
At the end of the frontal and posterior observation, the clinician obtained
a series of information. This information, together with the data related to

the production of the cow, will allow the professional to establish whether
to present the bovine to a clinical examination (Gnemmi et al., 2019).
In big, very big farms, it is possible to code each cow: a color is associ-
ated to each cow and, depending on the given color, the cow must be
visited immediately, monitored in the next 12 h or monitored in the next
24 h. This is a system that allows the coding of cows due to the severity of
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each case (Gnemmi et al., 2019).
The clinical examination of the bovine will include other tests, such
as BHB, the diagnosis of the abomasal displacement, the rumen function
evaluation, and others diagnostic tests. Some time may also be required
for complementary tests such as ultrasound (Table 4.4).
TABLE 4.4 Definition of Codes According to the Clinical Characteristics Identified

Red code Orange code Yellow code
T°C ≥ 40°C 39.5–40.0°C 38.5–39.5°C
LC 4–5 4 3
MS 3 2 1
RS 1 2 3
MT Liquid, red-brawn, Dense, red-pink Dense, white-yellow or pink,
fetid any smell
P < 8–10% = = or a little increased
LC, locomotion score; P, production; MS, mobility score; MT, type, color, and smell of the
vaginal discharge; RS, Rumen score; T, temperature.
4.5 CLINICAL VISIT
The clinical visit must be carried out as a personal qualifier and according
to the classical scheme (Rosenberger, 1979), or through an accurate anam-
nestic collection, a general objective examination, and a special physical
examination of the apparatus that have been affected by the disease. Not all
postpartum cows must be visited daily; only sick cows or those suspected
of having a quiescent disease must undergo a clinical examination.

The tools that the professional must equip themselves with are few, but
essential:
1. Stethoscope
2. Digital thermometer
3. BHB and blood glucose equipment
4. Gloves for rectal exploration
5. Short latex or nitrile gloves
6. Chalk to write on the cows
7. Palm-computer or smart phone or notebook to record cow data
8. 2.5 cc syringes with 18G° needles
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The clinical examination serves to confirm the diagnostic suspicion.
The cows in red code will have to be visited immediately; cows in orange
code will be monitored for 12 h before the eventual clinical visit; the cows
in yellow code will be monitored for 24 h before the eventual clinical visit.
KEYWORDS
•• dairy cow
•• post partum pathologies
•• uterine pathologies
•• diagnosis
•• monitoring procedure
•• transition management
•• herd prevention
REFERENCES
Block, E. Transition Cow Research: What Makes Sense Today? The High Plains Dairy
Conference 2010, Amarillo Texas. 75–98.
Dairy Cow Monitoring and Herd Management Solutions, Precision Dairy Farm Technology
| SCR Dairy. http://www.scrdairy.com (accessed March 23, 2019).
Drackley, J. K. Biology of Dairy Cows during the Transition Period: The Final Frontier? J.
Dairy Sci. 1999, 82, 2259–2273.

Gilbert, R. Postpartum Uterine Health and Disease. Dairy Cattle Reproductive Council
Convention. Omaha, Nebraska. 2008. 29–38.
Gnemmi, G.; Maraboli, C. Impatto del Metaboilismo Sull’insorgenza di Infezioni Uterine
nel Postpartum. Summa Veterinaria Animali da Reddito. 2018, 9, 1–5.
Gnemmi, G.; Maraboli, C. From Calving to 1st AI: Rational Management of the Post-Partum.
Proc. Int. Con. Bovine Reprod. Med. March 11–12th 2019. Faculty of Veterinary and
Experimental Sciences Catholic University of Valencia, San Vincente Mártir, Valencia,
Spain.
Gnemmi, G.; Morini, G.; Calvo, A.; Maraboli, C. Complesso Ritenzione Placenta-Metrite-
Endometrite: Valutazione Economica. Rivista di Medina Veterinaria. 2016, 54–1, 15–25.
Goff, J. P.; and Horst, R. L. Physiological Changes at Parturition and Their Relationship to
Metabolic Disorders. J. Dairy Sci. 1997, 80, 1260–1268.
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Hulsen, J. Koesignalen. Ed.; Vetvice, The Netherlands, 2003.
LeBlanc, S. J. Monitoring Metabolic Health of Dairy Cattle in the Transition Period. J.
Reprod. Dev. 2010, 56, 29–35.
LeBlanc, S. J. Inflammation, Metritis and Reproduction. Dairy Cattle Reproduction
Conference Indianapolis IN, 2013, 89–97.
LeBlanc, S. J. Reproductive Tract Inflammatory Disease in Postpartum Dairy Cows. 2014.
BSAS Annual Meeting, Westport, May 2014.
Overton, M.; Fetrow, J. Economics of Postpartum Uterine Health. DCRC 2008, Omaha
Nebraska, 39–43.
Rosenberger, G. L’esame clinico del bovino. Ed.; Essegivi, Bologna, 1993; 548.
Santos, J. E. Enfermedades Uterinas en la vaca Lechera: Un Tema Controvertido. Proc.
XIX Cong. Inte. ANEMBE de Med. Bovina. June 25–27, 2014.
Sheldon, M. Mechanism of Infection and Immunity in the Bovine Female Genital Tract Post-
Partum. Proc. Dairy Sympos. August 13, 2011. Hilton Milwaukee City Center. Milwakee,
Wisconsin.
Sheldon, I. M.; Lewis, G. S.; LeBlanc, S.; Gilbert, R. O. Defining Postpartum Uterine
Disease in Cattle. Theriogenology. 2006, 65, 1516–1530.
Wagner, S. A.; Schimeck, D. E.; Chend, F. C. Body Temperature and White Blood Cell
Count in Postpartum Dairy Cows. Bovine Pract. 2007, 42, 18–26.

CHAPTER 5
Reproductive Efficiency in Dairy Cows:

Change in Trends!
ANA HERAS-MOLINA1, JOSÉ LUIS PESANTEZ PACHECO1,2 and
SUSANA ASTIZ1*
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Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA, Avda Pta. de
1
Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain

2
School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Faculty of Agricultural
Sciences, University of Cuenca, Avda. Doce de Octubre, Cuenca, Ecuador
*
ABSTRACT
Dairy cattle industry has gone through a series of changes during the last
decades to improve competitiveness. However, this has correlated to a
detriment in reproductive parameters. Efforts in improving and under-
standing this situation have meant in practice changes in many fields.
Milestones have been: (1) a deeper study and understanding of the estrus
cycle of the cow, with the development of synchronization and resynchro-
nization protocols more and more detailed and with improving fertility
results after insemination; (2) better insight of how cow’s parity affects
reproduction; (3) the consideration of the length of the voluntary waiting
period as an essential decision in order to maintain an optimal reproductive
efficiency in farms; (4) the understanding of the process and relevance of
the pregnancy loss during the early fetal phase; (5) improvement in estrus
detection rates through novel technologies. These advances in technology
have resulted also in earlier and more precise pregnancy diagnoses.
But reproduction control alone is not enough. Nutrition, genetics,
and welfare have a deep effect on reproductive performance. A better

understanding of the energy during the production cycle and its effects have
been pivotal in the improvement of dairy cattle fertility in high-yielding
animals. In recent years, fertility has been added as a trait to be taken into
account in selection programs, since they are fundamental for maintaining

farm’s profitability. Animal welfare, with growing importance in animal
production, has been focused on an increase of published studies, studying
the effect of stress (social, environmental) on reproduction, helping to give
strategies to minimize it or even to void it.
All in all, changes in veterinary advice in farms have been accom-
plished by this better understanding of the dairy production systems,
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transforming the trend of reproductive efficiency up to figures even better
than the historically 50% fertility after artificial insemination.
5.1 INTRODUCTION
In the last decades, there has been a major change in dairy cattle industry.
In order to be more competitive, this sector has developed into an economy
of scale, looking for high production, higher profitability of the invest-
ments, and reducing the production costs (European Commission, 2013).
This can be seen in the changes suffered by herd size and milk yield. By
1950, the herd size was on average of 6.5 dairy cows per farm (Stevenson
and Britt, 2017), but since then it has increased exponentially. In the
European Union (EU) average herd size has increase from 24 lactating
animals in 1997 in the EU-15 (van Arendonk and Liinamo, 2003) to 55
in 2010 (European Commission, 2013). In the United States, the number
of lactating cows per herd is even larger, being on average of 180 in
2015 (NMPF Centennial Booklet, 2016). Not only the number of animals
has risen, but also the average milk production per cow, incrementing
the annual yield from 5000 kg/cow (van Arendonk and Liinamo, 2003;
NMPF, 2016) to 7000 kg/cow in EU from 1997 to 2010 (EU Dairy Farms
2010 Report, 2013) (Fig. 5.1).
These two factors imply a total transformation of the management of
the herd at different levels, being especially important in bigger farms,
since individual cows that produce more milk are usually found in them
(Lucy, 2001). For example, during the early half of the 20th century, most
of the dairy cattle grazed pastures, being housed in tie-stalls or stanchion
barns (Fig. 5.2) only during winters (Stevenson and Britt, 2017). However,

Reproductive Efficiency in Dairy Cows: Change in Trends! 89
nowadays the more common installations are freestalls (Fig. 5.3) and
dry-lot systems (NAHMS, 2009), although in recent years loose-housing
methods with compost or straw bedding are increasingly being used
(Barberg et al., 2007). These new ways of keeping the cattle mean a drastic
modification in the herd nutrition and feeding systems (NAHMS, 2009).
Other change can be seen in the number of cows managed by a single dairy
worker (Stevenson and Britt, 2017). The greater number of animals under
the control of a worker is extremely important in different factors in the
farm. For instance, the volume of milk managed by each person is larger
(Stevenson and Britt, 2017), as it is the number of cows milked per minute
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per operator (Progressive Dairy Operators, 2016). Related to the repro-
ductive management, these new farm situations affect it at various levels.
For example, it limits drastically the capacity to observe estrus, which has
stimulated the study of different strategies to make easier and more efficient
the estrus detection (Palmer et al., 2010), or even that makes unnecessary
estrus detection to be able to inseminate the cows by the implementation
of timed artificial insemination (TAI) (Stevenson, 2016). Another factor
affected by the changes in dairy cattle industry is the increased numbers
of calves per worker. Some studies reported increases in calf mortality
risk according to herd size (Gulliksen et al., 2009; Mellado et al., 2014;
Seppä-Lassila et al., 2016), which could be caused by the increase care in
management of fewer and more valuable animals in smaller farms (Seppä-
Lassila et al., 2016).
FIGURE 5.1 Evolution of number of milk cows, milk per cows and fertility from 1990 to
2017. Data combined coming from López-Gatius et al., 2002; Norman et al., 2009; Huang
et al., 2009; Feijoo et al., 2018, USDA, 2019.

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FIGURE 5.2 A dairy cattle herd in a typical barn, nowadays.
All in all, there has been a shift in the way we understand dairy cattle
medicine. As veterinarians, we find ourselves as health professionals with
no patients, not even with just a group of patients. As in other species,

like swine or poultry, we are dealing with a very complex system, that
includes the cow itself, the herd, the farm staff, the livestock facilities, etc.
(Astiz et al., 2018a). We are no longer working in the traditional individual
medicine, but in production medicine, also called “herd health medicine”

(Van der Leek, 2015).
FIGURE 5.3 A dairy cattle herd in a typical stall, nowadays.

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The development of the dairy cattle industry has driven to modifications
in its productivity, not always leading to an optimal situation, especially
regarding the reproductive efficiency of our herds. The trend in the increase
of milk production has been concomitant with a decrease in fertility,
since in some systems cows with the greatest milk yields have the highest
incidence of infertility (Lucy, 2001). The first service conception rate has
declined from approximately 65% in 1951 (Butler, 1998) to 40% in 1996
(Lucy, 2001), with an average of 1.5–2.5 artificial insemination (AIs)
per conception being necessary (van Arendonk and Liinamo, 2003). The
decline of fertility when AI is used can also be found, that could be up to
30% in the case of TAI (Pursley et al., 1997a,b; Schmitt et al., 1996). The

reproductive physiology of dairy cattle has evolved over the past 50 years to
cope with the high milk production, which could explain some (but not all)
of the reproductive problems that have been common in the industry until
2000 (Lucy, 2001). It is important to highlight that, even though benefits of

improving reproduction are obvious, specific causes of poor reproductive
performance are hard to identify and resolve (Stevenson, 2016).
However, in the last decade has occurred a great increase of approxi-
mately 5% in daughter pregnancy, even though the milk yield is still
boosting (Stevenson, 2016). What has happened? Is this change random?
Is it the consequence of one certain factor or of several strategies and
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circumstances?
In this chapter, the authors try to briefly review, resume and explain this
change in tendency of the reproductive efficiency of our high yielding dairy
cow, assuming its health (we will not cover specific health issues, but the
reproductive difficulties when dealing with healthy dairy adult cows). In
this transformation, it has been vital the effort of a variety of professionals
that includes advisors, scientists, practitioners, farmers, etc. With their
work, it has been possible to understand the high producing dairy cow in
its different aspects: reproductive physiology, immunology, health, welfare,
herd medicine, and genetic selection (Astiz et al., 2018a.; Weigel, 2006).
Thanks to this deeper knowledge, we can conclude that the decrease in
fertility was not only caused by the increasing milk yield, but by many
other factors as well (Lucy, 2001; Stevenson, 2016). It is impossible to
improve reproduction with unhealthy and not well-being animals, so it is
important to take care of feeding, care, management, facilities, etc. (Astiz
et al., 2018b). Being aware of and optimizing all of them have caused the
recent change in reproduction traits.
Therefore, factors affecting the healthy dairy cattle reproduction will
be explained, as well as the different strategies used nowadays to keep
reproductive efficiency at a satisfactory level at farms. These factors will
be organized in four major categories: reproductive management, nutrition,
genetics and welfare, especially focusing on the first one.
5.2 REPRODUCTIVE ISSUES
Several factors have had an important impact in the improvement of cattle

reproduction. During the last decades, major advances have been made
that have permitted the understanding of the underlying processes of

reproductive physiology in dairy cows and heifers. These advances provide

the basic technology that has been transferred to modern dairy farms
(Thatcher, 2017). Also, the better understanding of the animals has made
possible the improvement of dairy cattle management in order to improve

fertility and production, in general. These factors, related to reproductive
management are: synchronization and resynchronization protocols for
TAI, parity, estrus detection, and voluntary waiting period (VWP). We will
not cover the issues of the male and of the reproductive biotechnologies
(embryo transfer and in vitro embryo production), which are also relevant
for the actual global fertility in our farms, but out of our scope.
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5.2.1 SYNCHRONIZATION AND RESYNCHRONIZATION
PROTOCOLS FOR TAI
The knowledge of the endocrine events behind reproduction allowed

the development of synchronization and controlled breeding programs.
Firstly, these programs were focused on the synchronization of the estrus
(with programs that allows the shortening of the time until a group of
females should show estrus and the grouping of these cows), using either
progesterone in the late 1940s and early 1950s (Ulberg, et al., 1951),
progestins in the 1960s (Hansel, 1961) and prostaglandins in the 1970s
(Cooper et al., 1976) first only to induce estrus for first AI services after
observed estrus and later for inducing estrus in nonpregnant cows (Britt
et al., 1981) but with a palpable corpus luteum (CL) (Plunkett et al.,
1984). Once the progestin products for synchronization became available,
management of the dairy cattle changed, being introduced the concept of
clustering cows according to calving dates for group management (Britt et
al., 1972). It was also discovered that a double injection of prostaglandin
14 days apart in cows, so that the cow will be responsive at least at
the second injection and comes into estrus shortly afterwards, induce
the grouping of estrus within the 4–10 days after the second hormone
administration (Cooper et al., 1976; Squires, 2010). This system and its
variations have been used since a long time and even now are currently
implemented in bovine farms. The grouping schemes used in that period
are prototypes for what is done today to cluster cows for TAI (Stevenson
and Britt, 2017). Since the 1970s, several newly discovered hormones and
delivered technologies were introduced not only for the control of estrus
cycle, but also the ovulation in domestic animals (Stevenson and Britt,
2017). Reproductive management in dairy farms has markedly evolved

in the last 20 years, especially because of the continuous development of
synchronization programs that allows TAI. Early research on control of
follicle development and CL span has as a goal to develop systems that

synchronize follicle growth, luteolysis, and ovulation at a predictable time
in which the TAI could be performed maintaining fertility at a satisfactory
level (Thatcher et al., 1996). The studies focused on the control of the
follicular wave with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) (Macmillan
and Thatcher, 1991) made possible the creation of the Ovsynch protocol in
1995 (Pursley et al., 1995). Today, the Ovsynch protocol and its variations
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are the most common TAI programs used for reproductive management of
dairy cattle worldwide (Bisinotto et al., 2014). The most commonly used
protocols will be briefly explained hereunder.
5.2.1.1 OVSYNCH AND COSYNCH
The original Ovsynch protocol (or 7-day Ovsynch) is considered as

the basic ovulation synchronization TAI program (Stevenson, 2016). It
consists on a GnRH injection on the day 0 of the protocol, followed by a
prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) on day 7, another GnRH injection on day 9 and
the TAI on day 10, 16 hours after the GnRH administration. The GnRH
administrations induce a luteinizing hormone surge to cause ovulation of a
dominant follicle when present, and the PGF2α lyse the CL that is formed
(Pursley et al., 1995). Even though it did not result in better pregnancy
rates than cows inseminated after detected estrus (38 vs. 39%) and the
results were even worse for heifers (35 vs. 74%, Ovsynch and detected
estrus, respectively; Pursley et al., 1997), we have to think that, when
compared to the results after inseminations when estrus observation was
near 0%, the progress was huge.
One of the first variations of the Ovsynch was the Cosynch. The
objective of this modification was not to increase fertility, but to reduce
management of the cows, being the only difference with Ovsynch that
TAI is done together with the final GnRH injection (Schmitt et al., 1996;
Colazo and Ambrose, 2011). In fact, Cosynch induces a decrease in
fertility of about 7% when compared to Ovsynch (Borchardt et al., 2018),
but it has been demonstrated to be efficient in many productive systems
(Sanz et al., 2019). In Figure 5.4, differences between both protocols can
be seen.
Another variant of the Ovsynch protocol is the administration of estra-

diol cypionate on day 8 but maintaining the GnRH and the PGF2α and
being the TAI performed on day 10. However, the overall results were
very similar between the two protocols (Pancarci et al., 2002), and it is
worthy to remember, that the pharmaceutical estradiol forms are forbidden
in animal production in Europe.
5.2.1.2 PROGRAMS INCLUDING PROGESTERONE
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In the beginning of the investigation of estrus protocols, the usefulness of
progestins were investigated (Hansel, 1961). Afterwards, different studies
confirmed that the utilization of a progesterone intravaginal device such
as CIDR, PRID, etc. within the Ovsynch protocol, between the first GnRH
and the PGF2α injection could improve the percentage of pregnant cows at
day 60 after AI (34.2 vs. 29.6%) (Bisinotto et al., 2015), mainly for cows
with scarce Body Condition Scores, with and without a CL at the begin-
ning of the synchronization protocol. Cows benefitting the most from
supplemental progesterone are those that are anovular or not in diestrus
at the onset of the TAI program, confirming the therapeutical effect of the
supplemented progesterone. This dissimilarity could be explained by the
difference in amount of progesterone released by CL during diestrus and
a single progesterone insert (Stevenson, 2016). The utilization of these
devices has been studied in both 7-day and 5-day Ovsynch/Cosynch proto-
cols (Fig. 5.4), with controversial results, that could depend on the initial
percentage of noncycling cows. Some authors (Colazo and Ambrose, 2011;
Wilson et al., 2010) did not find differences between both, but Bridges et
al. (2008) reported an improvement of pregnancy rate when using CIDR
for 5 days instead of 7 (60 vs. 70%). Thus, pregnancy rate could be more
related to the programming of an adequate TAI taking into account the
proestrus rather than the time of CIDR removal (Wilson et al., 2010).
Other hormones that have been studied in order to improve fertility after
the implementation of Ovsynch protocol and its variants in dairy cattle
are equine and human chorionic gonadotropin, eCG or hCG in addition
to progestins. Studies where a dose of eCG is administrated on the day
of CIDR removal, has shown an improvement of fertility, especially in
animals with detrimental nutrition status (Macmillan and Burke, 1996). On
the other hand, utilization of hCG is effective in reducing the incidence of
short return intervals (Schmitt et al., 1996), since the effectiveness of this
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FIGURE 5.4 Synchronization methods (Ovsynch and Cosynch) and including intravaginal
progesterone devices. GnRH, gonadotropin releasing hormone; PGF, prostaglandin F2α;
TAI, timed artificial insemination.

hormone inducing the ovulation of the dominant follicle is similar to that

observed after GnRH administration (Schmitt et al., 1996), but with a direct
effect on the ovary and with a longer half-life (De Rensis et al., 2010).
5.2.1.3 PRESYNCHRONIZATION PROTOCOLS FOR FIRST TAIS
5.2.1.3.1 Presynchronization Prostaglandin F2α Programs
Early studies after the original Ovsynch publication in 1995 indicated
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that pregnancy outcomes were better when beginning the TAI program on
days 5 through 12 of the estrus cycle (i.e., during diestrus), with greater
ovulatory responses to GnRH administration and fertility (Vasconcelos et
al., 1999). A recent study confirms that the definitive factor is the amount
of progesterone observed at the initial GnRH injection, that has to be
moderate at this time point (coinciding with early diestrus-5 to 8th day of
the cycle) to maximize probability of pregnancy after TAI (Carvalho et al.,
2018). In order to get a greater proportion of cows in this cycle days at the
beginning of the Ovsynch protocol, the injection of two PGF2α 14 days
apart (the old estrus induction program of prostaglandin-prostaglandin),
was suggested.
In the first description of the so denominated “Presynch protocol” (PS),
the Ovsynch protocol was started 12 days apart from the last PGF2α of the
presynchronization with prostaglandins (Moreira et al., 2000). However,
some modifications focused on the days between the Presynch and the
Ovsynch protocols have been made changing the interval from 10 to 14 days,
always with the two PGF2α injections administered 14 days apart, but the
onset of the Ovsynch program was 14, 11, or 10 days, respectively (Fig. 5.5)
(Stevenson and Britt, 2017). Among these programs, improved pregnancy
outcomes were reported in cows after a Presynch-11 than a Presynch-14
(percentage of cows pregnant at 60 days 36.4 vs. 30.2%, respectively)
(Galvão et al., 2007), since more cows were at the ideal stage of the cycle
after this treatment (Stevenson, 2016). On average, the pregnancy risk using
a Presynch + Ovsynch protocol was clearly superior to the one obtained
using Ovsynch alone (46.5 vs. 35.4%, respectively; Stevenson, 2016).
Another benefit of Presynch programs is the possibility of inseminating
cows after observed estrus that show heat before the beginning of the
Ovsynch protocol, strategy that increased pregnancy rate when compared
to a system with 100% of cows timed inseminated (Macmillan et al., 2017).

Apple Academic Press 98

FIGURE 5.5 Presynchronization protocols with two PGF before GnRH and TAI. GnRH, gonadotropin releasing hormone; PGF, prosta-
glandin F2α; TAI, Timed Artificial Insemination.
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5.2.1.3.2 Presynchronization GnRH Programs
The major limitation of Ovsynch alone and Presynch PGF2α programs is

that they are unable to improve fertility in anovular cows (Bisinotto et al.,
2014). Including GnRH administration in addition to injections of PGF2α
increases the odds for pregnancy by 1.65 times for this kind of animals
(Bisinotto et al., 2014). Thus, different protocols were designed, such as
Double Ovsynch (DO), PG-3-G and G6G (Stevenson, 2016).
The DO uses an Ovsynch protocol in order to induce cyclicity in
anovular dairy cows before the use of a breeding Ovsynch protocol
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(Souza et al., 2008). Different studies have reported better fertility with
this program in comparison with PGF2α synchronization programs (Souza
et al., 2008; Herlihy et al., 2012) (46.3 vs. 38.2% P/AI in DO and PS,
respectively). This difference was especially important in primiparous
cows (52.5 vs. 42.3%, DO vs. PS), probably due to the higher incidence of
anovular cows with primiparous cows (Herlihy et al., 2012).
The PG-3-G consist on injecting PGF2α 3 days before injection of the
first GnRH of the Ovsynch (Peters and Pursley, 2002; Stevenson et al.,
2012). In the literature, better P/AI was found with this protocol than with
Presynch-10 (35 vs. 41.2%, respectively) (Stevenson and Pulley, 2012).
However, it is a protocol not commonly implemented by the farmers,
perhaps due to the difficulty to fix the program into a schedule with week-
ends free for the farm workers.
In the G6G program, cows are treated with a dose of PGF2α and two
days later, with GnRH, being this injection of GnRH administered 6
days before the Ovsynch protocol, since the 6 days interval increased the
percentage of cows that ovulated in response to first GnRH of Ovsynch as
well as the number of cows synchronized. With this method, improvement
of fertility was obtained when compared with the Ovsynch program (Bello
et al., 2006). This program achieves high conception rates at first TAI
ranging from 37% (Astiz and Fargas, 2013) to 57% (Yousuf et al., 2016).
However, when compared with other presynchronization GnRH programs
such as DO, results show that DO is better for primiparous cows (44.3 vs.
36.3%, DO vs. G6G), but G6G tended to be better for multiparous in some
studies (31.4 vs. 34.8%) (Astiz and Fargas, 2013).
Improved pregnancy outcomes of GnRH-Presynch programs may
be done in herds with an elevated percentage of anovulatory cows when
submitted to the TAI programs before first AI service (Stevenson, 2016).

This is a consequence of the association of all these programs with greater

ovulation response to the first GnRH injection of Ovsynch (Vasconcelos et
al., 1999; Bello et al., 2006; Chebel et al., 2006), greater number of cows
with a functional CL (Galvão and Santos, 2010; Stevenson et al., 2012),

more number of CL per cow at the first GnRH of Ovsynch (Stevenson et al.,
2012) and greater ovulatory response to both GnRH injections of Ovsynch
(Rutigliano et al., 2008; Galvão and Santos, 2010), and more appropriate
serum progesterone levels at each key moment during synchronization
(Carvalho et al., 2018).
As we can see, all these variations of the protocols for first AI after
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calving have been developed during this last century (Fig. 5.5), and have
been rapidly implemented in commercial farms, so that their input to the
improvement of the global fertility is clear.
5.2.1.4 RESYNCHRONIZATION PROGRAMS
Even with the programs mentioned above, conception at the first TAI after
parturition can fail in 50% of the cases, at best (López-Helguera et al., 2012;
Lopes et al., 2013). In order to increase efficiency on reproduction in the
farms, it is important to detect as soon as possible those animals that are
not pregnant (Fricke, 2002). In farms observing estrus, it is estimated that
40–60% of nonpregnant cows are detected on the next 23 days on average
(Chebel and Ribeiro, 2016), but if a nonpregnancy diagnosis (NPD) has to
be performed, this can be made as early as 26–28 days, being extremely
important the interval to pregnancy diagnosis. Nowadays, ultrasound
scanners have become portable and kits to measure pregnancy-associated
glycoproteins (PAGS) have become cheaper and makeable at a farm,
which means an improvement of dairy cattle reproductive strategies when
used adequately and combined with other methods (Patron-Collantes et
al., 2017). These are factors also responsible for the general advancement
of the global fertility in dairy cows: the earlier and more exactly the NPD is
made, the higher becomes the pregnancy rate of the herds. The refinement
of these technologies together with the development of resynchronization
programs has improved notably the reproductive efficiency after second
AIs. However, we should not forget the required training time for the
experts responsible for this exploration; when no sufficient, an enhanced
pregnancy rate loss may be related to (Patron et al., 2017).

At first, the resynchronization programs consisted on the injection of

PGF2α to nonpregnant cows when a palpable CL was found upon nonpreg-
nant diagnosis. Cows were either inseminated upon detected estrus or by
appointment at 72 and 96 h after the hormone injection (Plunkett et al.,

1984). However, when inseminations only occurred after detected estrus,
failing to follow up on noninseminated cows resulted in longer AI-AI
intervals, which affected overall fertility in farms, reducing pregnancy
rates directly (Stevenson and Britt, 2017). For this reason, once the TAI
programs were developed, studies were conducted using these programs
initiated in nonpregnant cows starting a Resynch-Ovsynch/Cosynch
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program on the day of NPD (Stevenson and Britt, 2017). This program
is the most commonly used one for resynchronization, with an average
pregnancy risk of 29% (Stevenson, 2016), when detection of estrus is not
applied and cows are only inseminated after a TAI program.
Recently, it has been demonstrated, that reducing the time between the
first GnRH and the PGF2α injections from 7 to 5 days would enhance
fertility, since the embryo quality could be related inversely to length of
follicle dominance (Santos et al., 2010). Shorter programs are an ideal
solution for resynchronization protocols (Fig. 5.5). However, a limitation
to manipulate the length of follicle dominance when GnRH is used is the
fact that CLs are refractory to PGF2α during the first 5 days of estrus cycle
(Tsai and Wiltbank, 1998). In order to cope with this problem, two PGF2α
injections are administered at days 5 and 6, obtaining better pregnancy per
AI (P/AI) results (39.3 vs. 33.9% for 5-day and 7-day Ovsynch protocol)
(Santos et al., 2010). Anyway, it is now known that a double prostaglandin
administered 24 h apart before the last GnRH administration (and AI)
assures the correct luteolysis almost to a 95% of synchronized cows, inde-
pendently of the length of the protocol. Therefore, it is advised to apply
two doses of PGF2α, even when implementing 7 days Ovsynch protocols
(Fig. 5.5) (Carvalho et al., 2018).
After the development of the shorter protocols, 5-day Ovsynch/
Cosynch and its variations have been used, and average fertility increased
up to 45.3% (Patron et al., 2018; Colazo and Ambrose, 2015).
As we can see, the development of these resynchronization strategies
has also notably improved the conception rates after second and later
inseminations in the last 18 years.
It is important to keep in mind that the evaluation of the efficiency of
any protocol program cannot be based exclusively on the fertility after

the TAI, but on the global reproductive efficiency (pregnancy rate of the
whole herd). Moreover, the economic efficiency has also to be evaluated.
Therefore, some shorter programs with a lower fertility could be more
efficient than other longer protocols with higher fertility. This has to be
evaluated at each farm, specifically for resynchronization protocols using
other programs such as G6G, originally designed for first inseminations
because it takes 18 days to be implemented, but that also leads to optimal
results, with an average of 38% of conception rates for second and more
TAI (Patron et al., 2018).
Another very relevant factor when inseminating the second or higher
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time, is the time when cows are diagnosed for nonpregnancy or interval
between AI-NPD, which must be the shortest in order to intensify efficiency.
Thus, resynchronization protocols can include a presynchronization with
GnRH or chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration 5-7 days even
before knowing if the cows are pregnant. These methods increase pregnancy
risk in 4–5% when compared with the Ovsynch resynchronization protocol
(29 vs. 33.5%) (Stevenson, 2016).
Other option is to introduce intravaginal devices, which increase preg-
nancy risk when used with a 5-day Ovsynch program, as seen by Bissinotto
et al. (2010) (51.3 vs. 43.1%, for cows with and without CIDR treatment,
respectively).
Nevertheless, the best solution would be to adjust resynchronization to
the individual ovarian status of each cow at NPD as demonstrated recently.
In this case, animals with a CL ≥ 15 mm and a follicle ≥ 10 mm at NPD
would receive PGF2α, PGF2α 24 h later, GnRH 32 h later, and TAI 16–18
h later; NPD without a CL ≥ 15 mm or a follicle ≥ 10 mm would receive
GnRH plus CIDR, PGF2α, and CIDR removal 7 days later, PGF2α 24 h
later, GnRH 32 h later, and TAI 16–18 h later. Although this new system
didn’t enhance conception rate when compared with classical 7-days
Ovsynch (Ovsynch = 31.0% vs. new systems = 33.9%), it did reduce time to
pregnancy because of reduction of the TAI-TAI interval in cows with a CL
at NPD and greater conception rate in cows with no CL at NPD (Wijma et
al., 2017). Moreover, we can see that the improvement of ultrasonography
and its use on the study of ovarian cycle has permitted the utilization of this
method in order to achieve globally better results in farms.
In general, AI-AI interval is reduced when increasing estrus detection,
but it is important to adapt this to the efficiency of estrus detection and
the fertility of the inseminations done after the observed estrus in each

farm. All in all, the combination of both strategies, resynchronization for

TAI and AI after estrus detection seems to be the most profitable strategy
(Galvão et al., 2013; Denis-Robichaud et al., 2018), depending the optimal
percentage of cows submitted to each protocol on the farms idiosyncrasies

(Astiz et al., 2018b).
Many dairy herds have incorporated fertility TAI programs into a
complete reproductive management program. For instance, Carvalho et
al. (2018) implemented an aggressive reproductive management system
for first and Resynch TAIs in high yielding herds. Firstly, all cows were
submitted for first TAI between 76 and 82 DIM after a Double Protocol
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(Souza et al., 2008) with the addition of a second PGF2α treatment 24 h
after the first one. For Resynch TAI, all animals were treated with GnRH
25 days after TAI. Ultrasound was used for pregnancy diagnosis, and
afterwards nonpregnant cows were classified as having or lacking a CL
>10 mm in diameter. Those that have this CL size go on with an Ovsynch/
Cosynch-56 protocol by the injection of a PGF2α treatment 32 days after
TAI, whereas those animals lacking a CL restart an Ovsynch/Cosynch-56
protocol that includes a second PGF2α treatment 24 h after the first
(Carvalho et al., 2015), including a P4 device. With this protocol, huge
improvement of fertility was obtained being the conception risk averaged
50%. This protocol and similar ones are being used in different herds,
which drastically improve their reproduction results.
Therefore, we have managed to change the situation of facing a steady,
with time, declining fertility in line in our farms into a situation where we
have achieved average fertility rates even greater than the historically limit
of 50% after AI, and annual average pregnancy rates of more than 35% in
our high producing dairy herds.
5.2.2 NUMBER OF CALVINGS: “PARITY”
The fact of having enhanced average rates of conception and pregnancy in

our dairy farms is not only due to mastering the synchronization protocols
and the improvement of individual fertility after AI. We have also learned
to consider different characteristics of our cows that were not relevant for
us before. One example of this is the parity of the cow.
Parity plays a very important role in reproductive management, since
the reproductive physiology is different in multiparous and primiparous

cows (Astiz et al., 2018b), which was not clear for professionals during
the last century. Nowadays, we know that primiparous cows have been
reported to have better fertility, since they have, in general, less reproduc-
tive problems or anovulation (Erb and Grohn, 1988; Gröhn and Rajala-
Schultz, 2000). However, this idea is controversial because other studies
reported a better fertility of multiparous cows and a higher incidence of
anovular cows (De Kruif, 1978; Stevenson and Call, 1988).
The differences between primiparous and multiparous cows fertility
could be explained by differences in endocrine parameters like IGF1,
related with the delay of ovulation (Beam and Butler, 1999). However,
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more research is necessary, since some studies indicate a higher concentra-
tion in multiparous cows (Meikle et al., 2004), whereas other researchers
have opposite results (Taylor et al., 2003).
Due to these endocrine divergences, it is known that the synchronization
protocols are not as effective in both groups, and currently the parity of
the cows must be considered in any reproductive study, because of its
relevance when deciding the best protocol for the farm. For example,
primiparous cows shows higher conception rates (> 10 points in conception
rate) after first insemination when inseminated with the DO protocol
(Souza et al., 2008; Astiz and Fargas, 2013), which can be explained by
the fact that this protocol works better in anovulatory cows (and in some
herds primiparous cows show an enhanced proportion of anovulation)
(Souza et al., 2008; Herlihy et al., 2012) or because this protocol leads to
intermediate progesterone values in a greater proportion of cows than the
Presynch-Ovsynch protocol after TAI (Herlihy et al., 2012). On the other
hand, multiparous cows inseminated after a G6G protocol have slightly
better results than primiparous, because it leads to higher ovulation rates,
higher rates of CL formation in anovular cows and, therefore, higher
concentration of progesterone (Astiz and Fargas, 2013).
Therefore, currently we can find some reproductive management
systems designed specifically for certain parity order of the cows, opti-
mizing in this way their reproductive results, which also contributes to
the general enhancement of the reproductive efficiency in the dairy cattle
sector.
Parity also shows a strong interaction when trying to find the optimal
VWP, as we will review later on this chapter. In brief, the VWP is the
interval after calving until we decide to inseminate the cows. In a recent
work (Stangaferro et al., 2018), extending the VWP from 60 to 88 days

delayed time to pregnancy during lactation (20 days approximately) and

increased the risk of leaving the herd for multiparous cows (hazard ratio =
1.21). This shift in time to pregnancy combined with the herd elimination
policy resulted in longer lactations (22 days) and greater milk income for
primiparous but not for multiparous in the VWP88 group. Under variable
conditions, the longer VWP treatment increased cash flow for primiparous,
but reduced it for multiparous. Therefore, the decision regarding the length
of the VWP has to consider the parity of the cows.
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5.2.3 ESTRUS DETECTION
Even though timed AI is a highly viable option to produce pregnancies

in dairy cows, the implementation of an accurate and efficient estrus
detection system is vital in farms (Stevenson and Britt, 2017).
Cows express a number of behavioral changes during estrus, like
an increase in chin resting, anogenital licking and sniffing, aggressive
interaction, mounting other cows and modifications in feed intake, and
rumination time (Helmer and Britt, 1985; Kerbrat and Disenhaus, 2004;
Stevenson and Britt, 2017). Other changes during estrus have been studied,
such as vaginal cytology and pH, electrical resistance of vaginal mucus
and genital tissues, body temperature, pulse and heart rates, blood flow,
pheromones, blood metabolites and hormones, and milk yield (Stevenson
and Britt, 2017).
Traditionally, visual monitoring of these signs of estrus has been used.
In order to be efficient using this method, observation of cows should
occur at least 30 min twice daily (once in the morning and the other in
the late afternoon-early evening) (Stevenson and Britt, 2017). Although
laborious and time consuming, the optimal estrus observation system is
considered to be 20 min, 5 times per day (Diskin and Sreenan, 2000).
However, the expression and hence detection of standing estrus is affected
by different factors; in Holstein is assumed that only 58% of the cows
expresses estrus (Roelofs et al., 2005). Factors are the number of animals
in estrus simultaneously, lameness, housing type, and the surface underfoot
(Hurnik et al., 1975; Sood and Nanda, 2006) (cows are likely to express
estrus behavior more often and for longer duration on earthen surfaces
rather than on dry grooved concrete surfaces (Britt et al., 1986), which is
a common floor in dairy cattle farms (Somers, 2004). This change in the

housing of the animals together with the increased herd size, has made that
visual observation of individual cows is not practical in modern farms,
resulting in large rates of unobserved estrus and remarkable economic
losses (Reith and Hoy, 2018). Detection efficiency has often been below
50% in dairy herds (Van Vliet and Van Eerdenburg, 1996), which means
a decrease of fertility in the farm, as well as higher culling rate, even
though about 90% of the factors for low detection rates are attributable to
management (Reith and Hoy, 2018).
In the 1970s, various devices were developed in order to facilitate
visual estrus detection. Some examples are the simple use of tail-painting,
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video tapes (more useful in research than in farm), detectors on the cows
(being the most used device of this type the KaMaR Heatmount Detector)
or the chain ball mating device. With these two methods, an improve-
ment of 15–53% on estrus visualization was obtained. Other changes
such as vaginal measurements, hormone detection, or milk yield were
studied, but were found less practical that visual detection (Foote, 1975).
In the 1990s, mounting pressure-sensitive sensors to the rump of the cow
that are activated herdmate were developed (Stevenson et al., 1996).
They are highly efficient and accurate because they are associated with
specific sexual behavior and are functional 24 h/d (Roelofs et al., 2010),
being these radiotelemetric devices more efficient in detecting animals
in estrus (100 vs. 73%, using the device or observational detection of
estrus, respectively) (Stevenson et al., 1996). However, due to the high
variability in duration and intensity of the expressed estrus signs among
individuals and the great influence of several different factors, detecting
cows in estrus is still a challenge. During the 21st century, average prices
of the last estrus detection devices have considerably decrease and fully
automated sensor-based technologies that continuously monitor and
record detailed information about the cow have been developed and
greatly defined to attenuate further reproductive declines (Reith and Hoy,
2018). With these devices (such as HeatWatch® or DEC®), two different
trials found efficiencies of 86.6 and 71.1% for estrus detection based
on HeatWatch® in comparison with 54.4 and 54.7% provided by visual
observation (At-Taras and Spahr, 2001).
Overall, these systems enhance the estrus detection rates in a lower or
greater percentage depending on the farm and the device itself, being also
one important aspect for the change in trend of the reproductive efficiency
in the dairy cow.

5.2.4 VWP VOLUNTARY WAITING PERIOD
The VWP is the time between parturition and the time at which the cow
is first eligible for insemination based on the farm management decision

protocol in order to maximize efficiency (Inchaisri et al., 2011). The
insemination and the conception risk at the end of the VWP are the two
major determinants of time to pregnancy during lactation, but the duration
of VWP can also influence timing pregnancy, since it determines when
cows become eligible for insemination (Stangaferro et al., 2018).
Understanding the decision of a VWP as an essential one also contrib-
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utes to the general improvement of the reproductive efficiency of our dairy
systems. A minimal VWP of 45–60 days postpartum is recommended,
because it allows for a complete uterine involution and resumption of normal
ovarian cyclicity and, therefore, an improvement of successful conception
after AI (Fetrow et al., 2007). These are “physiological” reasons for the
VWP. However, we now know that the general objective in farms is not
to get cows pregnant as soon as possible after calving, but at the moment
when they are efficient as possible. In high-yielding dairy cows, an increase
of the VWP to prolong the lactation period is nowadays being studied,
since it is beneficial for the global economy of the productive system under
some circumstances. First, the negative energy balance (NEB) during early
lactation (which has detrimental effects on fertility (Wathes et al., 2007)
can be avoided. Second, a longer VWP may prevent drying off during high
milk production, which can affect in a negative way the health status of
udder during the dry period and the subsequent lactation (Bates and Dohoo,
2016). Third, the transition period is a time when there are more diseases
and culling risk is greater for the cows, thus, the replacement of many short
lactations with fewer longer ones may improve longevity of cows, as well
as decrease the number of Holstein calves, since the use of sexed semen
has facilitated the production of replacement heifers (Niozas et al., 2019).
As seen before in this chapter, extending the VWP could be especially
important in primiparous cows, which have longer and less peaking
lactations, more problems of inactive ovaries (Niozas et al., 2019), and
could be relevant after some synchronization protocols such as DO
(Tenhagen et al., 2003; Gobikrushanth et al., 2014; Stangaferro et al.,
2018). Furthermore, in a study by Stangaferro et al. in which VWP of
60 and 88 days (VWP60 and VWP88, respectively) were compared, an
interaction was observed between VWP duration and milk yield at dry-off

in primiparous cows, producing significantly more milk the animals in

the VWP88 group (2018).
Nevertheless, a longer VWP for multiparous cows could also be optimal
for the farms, especially in high-yielding ones. It has been observed

an increased in conception rates when the VWP is 120 (48.9%) or 180
(49.6%) days long, compared with VWP of 40 days (36.6%) (Niozas et
al., 2019). This could be explained because extending VWP period would
provide more time for the animal to recover the uterine health (Gilbert et
al., 2005; Gautam et al., 2009; Sheldon et al., 2009) through improved
immune status, more time to resolve the inflammatory process establish
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after calving, or both (LeBlanc, 2014). It would also provide more time to
return to an optimal metabolic status and hormone secretion patterns which
benefits the resumption of ovarian cyclicity (Cheong et al., 2016). Thus,
nowadays research has shown the importance, not only of the VWP itself,
but also of adjusting it to each farm and animal in order to be more produc-
tive and improve fertility in the herd (Stangaferro et al., 2018; Niozas et
al., 2019), and all this new knowledge relative to this issue contributes for
sure, as well, to the global improvement in dairy cattle fertility.
5.2.5 PREGNANCY LOSS
Fertility is a multifactorial trait and its deterioration is caused by a network

of factors (Souza et al., 2018). Pregnancy loss is one of the main problems
that decrease fertility, which generates adverse economic effects for dairy
farms (Vanroose et al., 2000) since it decrease milk yield, and the number
of calves produced and increase culling rate (Souza et al., 2018). This
issue has become relevant with the routinization of an always earlier NPD.
The early fetal or pregnancy loss (which occurs during the second and
third month of gestation, from day 28–60 in lactating cows once positive
diagnoses has occurred at 28–33 days after insemination) (Astiz et al.,
2018a). Observing this issue and trying to understand and to compensate
it, contributes hugely to the general fertility increase of the dairy system,
since the high-yielding cows are even more affected than moderate
yielding dairy cows (Vasconcelos et al., 1997).
The first articles regarding pregnancy loss were published in the
late 1970s, studying the correlation between pregnancy diagnosis by
membrane slip and embryonic mortality (Vaillancourt et al., 1979). Later,

in the 1980s and 1990s, more research about pregnancy loss was done
(Franco et al., 1987; White et al., 1989), especially related to pregnancy
diagnosis, since in the early days it was done by transrectal palpation or
2D transrectal ultrasonography, which, in one of these first articles about

early pregnancy loss, it was calculated of about 5% (Vaillancourt et al.,
1979). But it was not until this century, that the pregnancy loss has become
a usual reproductive index to be taken into account in any dairy cattle herd.
Currently almost no reproductive publication can demonstrate reproduc-
tion results without having studied the rates for pregnancy loss, and the
comprehensive of this issue is still a research question. Nowadays, it is
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estimated to be about 12%, but there is a substantial variation between
farms (García-Ispierto et al., 2006; Wijma et al., 2017). In the 1980s,
studies were focused on the effect of the pregnancy diagnosis on the preg-
nancy loss incidence, but currently it has been studied that pregnancy loss
is affected by several causes. In this second group, are specially important
the parity of the dam, the semen providing bulls, season, and twin preg-
nancies in different countries (Labèrnia et al., 1996; Santos et al., 2004;
Grimard et al., 2006; López-Gatius, 2012). Heat stress is one of the most
important factors, being the early pregnancy loss greater during warm and
hot season (Souza et al., 2018) since the oocyte on the day of estrus and the
developing embryo during the first three cleavage divisions are extremely
sensitive (Moore and Thatcher, 2006), but being also important under this
circumstance the pregnancy loss after the day 30 of pregnancy. All things
considered, pregnancy loss seems to depend more deeply on the individual
genetics, which makes the selection program of the farm a key part of
the reproductive efficiency of the herd (Chebel and Ribeiro, 2016). Both,
animal welfare and genetics are vital aspects that are being improved in
the farms, which also imply an improvement in fertility of the herd.
Having understood that our work in fertility does not end with the
conception rate results 30 days after AI and the importance of controlling
the level of pregnancy losses in our herds, does strongly contribute to the
general improvement of the reproduction outputs.
5.3 NUTRITION
Authors would like to emphasize the fact that, even when not at all our
specialty, we did not want to write on the global improvement of fertility

in the dairy cattle without acknowledging the enormous contributions of

other key fields besides reproductive issues such as nutrition, genetics and
welfare. Hence, this and the next parts of the chapter are briefly covered.
Every physiological function in the dairy cattle needs a precise supply

of specific nutrients in specific proportion. The relationship between
reproduction and nutrition is a topic of increasing importance, and their
interaction has long been known to have important implications in fertility,
since nutrition affects ovarian follicle development through changes in
metabolic and reproductive hormones, as well as via direct effects on
the ovary and uterus (Bach, 2019) and also because nutrition determines
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live weight and body condition score, which are correlated with fertility
(D’Occhio et al., 2019). Therefore, this factor also plays a relevant role in
the improvement of the reproductive efficiency of the dairy cattle farms
nowadays, besides of the general fact of requiring adequately fed animals.
Some more concrete aspects of nutrition more directly related to
fertility are the following.
5.3.1 ENERGY
Energy is vital in order to have high pregnancies rates, since it has recently
been seen that a NEB during the early postpartum period negatively affects
follicular and oocyte quality and, therefore, having a negative impact in
fertility, both directly and indirectly because of an altered supply to the
oocyte (Bach, 2019). In fact, energy status is generally considered to be the
major nutritional factor that influences fertility of animals in general and
of dairy cattle in particular (Fahar et al., 2018). Thus, prolonged periods of
NEB were associated with suppression of pulsatile LH secretion, a reduc-
tion in ovarian responsiveness to LH stimulation and reduced estradiol
secretion by the dominant follicle, which affects its ovulation (Butler,
2003). Moreover, mobilization of body fat during NEB increased plasma
concentration of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyrate
(BHB), both of which were associated in high plasmatic concentrations
with reduced fertility (Garnsworthy et al., 2008).
Body condition scoring and its variation is probably the most used
management tool in order to provide information related to energy reserves
and thereby, the nutritional status of dairy cows (Garnsworthy, 2007). The
animals are normally scored on a 5-point scale (1 indicating thin and 5 fat)

(Edmonson et al., 1989). In many investigations, body condition score at

different moments like calving or at different points in lactation has been
determined in order to see its relationship with fertility (Hoedemaker et
al., 2009). However, discrepancies regarding the effects of Body Condi-

tion Score (BCS) and body condition change on reproductive fertility are
common in the literature, since sometimes this relationship is difficult to
evaluate because other factor besides nutrition can be involved (López-
Gatius et al., 2003).
Nevertheless, it has been proven the connection of some fertility traits
and BCS. For example, in a meta-analysis done by López-Gatius et al.
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(2003) it has been seen that BCS at parturition was associated with the rela-
tive risk of conception in cows showing a low BCS at this moment, with a
reduction of 9% in pregnancy rate at first AI in comparison to animals with
intermediate BCS, possibly due to a prolonged anovulatory period, which
is frequent in thin cows (Beam and Butler, 1999). When relating BCS at
parturition and at first AI, a relation was found, with homogeneous results
in the literature. Thus, in animals showing a body condition ≥ 3.5 at partu-
rition the number of days open were significantly reduced in comparison
to cows with low BCS (5.8 or 11.7 days when compared to intermediate or
low body condition score animals, respectively). This relationship can also
be found between BCS and first AI, since animals in good condition at this
moment had a decrease in days open when compared with animals in the
intermediate or low body category (11.9 or 24.1, respectively).
All in all, energy is related to some important fertility traits like
days open and pregnancy risk. Given that nutritional status is related
the management of the herd, we should paid special attention to the
cow’s nutritional needs during the peripartum period, to avoid metabolic
disorders and fertility decrease (Drackley, 1999). Nevertheless, the better
knowledge of these needs has already helped to improve reproductive
performance in our farms.
5.3.2 PROTEIN
Proteins and their metabolites are also being studied for their relationship
with reproductive performance. Proteins are important for the optimal
reproduction of the cow, since proteins, or more specifically amino acids
are needed for the proper oocyte development (Bach, 2019). It has be

seen that reproductive performance can be impaired if the protein intake

exceeds the cow’s requirements (62 vs. 48% of conception rate with diets
with 13–14% or 15–19% of crude protein, respectively) (Yasothai, 2014).
However, the effect on fertility of low protein intake has been less studied.
It is known that short-term protein deficiencies can be met by body
reserves, but long-term deficiencies can lead to a NEB that is detrimental
to reproductive performance. Also, adequate protein intake is vital to the
proper functioning of the reproductive organs and the development of the
fetus (Fahar et al., 2018). Thus, the better understanding of the relation
between protein levels in diet and fertility has led to a better formulation,
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and an improvement of fertility during the last decades.
5.3.3 MINERALS AND VITAMINS
Minerals and vitamins have been found important too, but more research
is needed in their behalf, since results are still controversial. For example,
some studies have found that Zn, Cu, Mn and Co may improve conception
rates (29.6 vs. 36.6% conception rate at first service for inorganic inorganic
trace minerals (ITM) and partial replacement of ITM for chelated trace
minerals (Bach et al., 2015), whereas other reports no changes (Siciliano-
Jones et al., 2008).
However, not only the ration itself is important in current dairy cattle
nutrition. For instance, nowadays there is an increased understanding of
its relationship with the balance of metabolic hormones which act at the
brain, making it control of the reproductive endocrine system (Clément,
2016). Another important aspect that is being currently studied and
starting to understand is the interaction between nutrition and genetics,
which can interact in two ways: the genome (and, therefore, the proteome
and metabolome) of the host affects the response to a given diet (nutrige-
netics); and the nutrients supply may affect the expression of specific genes
(nutrigenomics) (Bach, 2019). More research in this topic may give results
that could mean an improvement of dairy cattle fertility in the future.
5.4 GENETICS
Over the past 100 years, the range of traits considered for genetic selec-
tion in dairy cattle has progressed to meet the demands of both society

and industry. Genetic selection for important traits has aided in the
transformation and advancement of dairy farming, being the specific traits
considered different over time (Miglior et al., 2017). A potential trait must
meet different criteria in order to be considered for selection in dairy cattle

population (Shook, 1989). First, it should mean an economic improvement
of the farms (reducing production costs or having an economic value as a
marketable commodity). Second, the trait must have enough genetic varia-
tion and heritability. Third, it should be clearly defined, measurable at low
cost and recorded consistently. Finally, an indicator trait may be favored
if it has a high genetic correlation with the economically relevant trait,
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reduces recording costs, has a higher heritability, or it can be measured
earlier in the animal’s life.
It has been the economic value which has been historically driven
the genetic selection. From the 1930s to the 1970s, the focus of selection
was exclusively on milk production (Miglior et al., 2017). However, this
selection for productive traits was detrimental for fertility in dairy cattle,
since there is an antagonistic correlation between female fertility and milk
production (VanRaden et al., 2004). At first, this idea was controversial,
since some studies reported little or no relationship between traits of yield
and reproduction (Weller, 1989), or even if the reported it, it was not signifi-
cant (Shanks et al., 1978). Later, it became accepted that due to unfavorable
genetic correlations selection for higher yields in dairy cattle has possibly
led a decline in fertility, since the reproduction physiology of dairy cattle
changed in response to genetic selection for milk production (Lucy, 2001).
In general, the inclusion of reproductive measures in the general indices
was adopted relatively late, mostly due to data availability, except in the
Nordic countries, which started to include reproduction traits in national
indices in the late 1970s (Miglior et al., 2017). It was not until the 21st
century when more countries (several European countries, Australia, New
Zealand, and the United States) included fertility in their national selection
indices (Miglior et al., 2005).
Selection for fertility traits is not easy, being a challenge to find relevant,
easily measurable, or recordable phenotypes to represent the multiple
aspects of fertility and better describe the underlying physiology. In the
current practices for fertility selection, direct selection on phenotypes
describing fertility and indirect selection for improved fertility can be
done. Furthermore, novel fertility phenotypes such as progesterone-based
measures, estrus expression and activity traits and improved reporting of

current traits can also be used for improving the fertility genetics (Fleming
et al., 2019) and, therefore, contribute to the global improvement of
fertility in cows.
5.4.1 CURRENT PRACTICES FOR FERTILITY SELECTION
5.4.1.1 DIRECT SELECTION ON PHENOTYPES DESCRIBING FERTILITY
Fertility traits measured in dairy cattle are strongly influenced by a great
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number of factors, such as environmental and management factors and
the animal’s physiology. This, in addition to the fact that some traits are
measured late in life or over long periods and the low hereditability of
these traits, explain why the genetic improvement of fertility traits using
the traditional genetic evaluation has been slow over the years. It also has
mean low reliability of estimated breeding values, and the influence of the
reproductive management applied (Fleming et al., 2019).
Traditional fertility traits used in selection programs are usually
measured using time intervals and success or nonsuccess traits. The
International Bull Evaluation Service Centre (Interbull, Uppsala, Sweden)
used five female traits in order to introduce international genetic evalu-
ation service for fertility across countries in 2007 (Fleming et al., 2019).
These traits are (National Genetic Evaluations Info-Interbull Centre, 2017):
maiden heifer’s ability to conceive, lactating cow’s ability to recycle after
calving, lactating cow’s ability to conceive expressed as a rate trait and
lactating cow’s measurements of interval traits calving-conception. Never-
theless, the different countries also have their own national defined and
emphasized fertility traits, based on the selection criteria applied in the
population (Fleming et al., 2019).
Nowadays, the availability of genomic data like single nucleotide
polymorphisms (SNP) markers and whole genome sequence have provided
new opportunities for the improvement of dairy fertility using this tradi-
tional traits, since several studies identified SNP and deleterious haplotypes
related to fertility and reproduction traits (Müller et al., 2017). The inclusion
of the information provided by these technologies has also provided better
reliability estimates for fertility traits (VanRaden et al., 2017). However,
even with the development done during these years in fertility genetics,
the selection for improved genetics in dairy cows is still a challenge for
breeders, farmers and the industry (Fleming et al., 2019).

5.4.1.2 INDIRECT SELECTION FOR IMPROVED FERTILITY
In order to achieve a pregnancy and give birth to a healthy calf, various

additional traits describing a robust animal in good condition to reproduce

are necessary. Some traits that are currently under selection in the dairy
industry are genetically correlated with the overall reproductive success
of the, which means a contribution to the indirect genetic improvement
of fertility in selection programs. Given the low hereditability of fertility
traits and the difficulty in their evaluation, fertility-correlated traits have
been vital for the improvement of cow fertility. Future traits currently
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under investigation could help to further this cause (Fleming et al., 2019).
Calving traits such as calving ease, calf size, and stillbirth are usually
evaluated in reproduction trait indices (Miglior et al., 2017). Longevity and
other similarly defined traits related to ability of or length of time a cow
can remain in the herd is usually evaluated worldwide, since it means a
decline in involuntary and premature culling. Because infertility is one of
the most important reasons for early disposal of the dams, using longevity
as a trait favorably selects fertility (Wall et al., 2003). Body condition score
is also included in many national genetic evaluations (Fleming et al., 2019).
The relationship between energy balance and fertility is a strong subject
of interest, as explained before in the previous part of this chapter, and
additional indicators traits of energy balance that may relate to reproduc-
tive performance are being investigated (McParland et al., 2015) as a new
way to enhance fertility. Health traits are now frequently evaluated in dairy
cows selection programs using clinical health information (Fleming et al.,
2019), since it has been studied that clinical ketosis, dystocia, retained
placenta, locomotion disorders, and metritis events influenced days to first
service and conception rates (Fourichon et al., 2000). Later, Köck et al.
(2014) reported significant genetics correlations between retained placenta,
metritis, and cystic ovaries and female fertility traits. Nevertheless, like
fertility traits, health traits typically have low heritability estimates but,
even so, they are still selected, since cow health is economically important
and has welfare implications (Fleming et al., 2019).
Thus, indirect selection for improved fertility could be advantageous
to the improvement of fertility, being one of the tools used nowadays.
However, more research should be done in order to fully understand
the genetic traits utilized, which could be important in order to improve
fertility in our farms.

5.4.2 NOVEL FERTILITY TRAITS
To ensure continuous progress and to develop breeding aims that coup

with the producer and consumer expectations, the introduction of novel

traits should be considered (Miglior et al., 2017), since the current traits
used have many disadvantages. In fact, many new phenotypes have been
proposed to better express the underlying biology or cattle reproduction
(Fleming et al., 2019). Rapid advancement in technology, data sources,
and methodology related to dairy industry have permitted the appari-
tion of better opportunities to both, better characterize and improve the
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accuracy of current traits and potentially collect novel phenotypes at a
national level (Crowe et al., 2018; Fleming et al., 2018). In particular,
the implementation of genomic selection accelerated progress in novel
trait selection, as well as the use of MIR spectroscopy in routine milk
testing. This has led to the selection of novel traits that, even though are
not directly related to fertility, could help to boost it, like feed efficiency,
heat stress, hoof health, or immune response (Miglior et al., 2017).
Focusing on fertility traits and phenotypes, nowadays there are a great
number of them that describe many different aspects of dairy cows. Some
of the most important novel fertility phenotypes are progesterone-based
measures, estrous expression, and activity traits. It is also relevant in
the development of dairy cattle genetics the improvement of reports of
current traits.
Endocrine-level phenotypes largely focused on progesterone (P4) levels
have been pointed out as indicators of fertility in dairy cattle because they
describe more directly cow’s physiology, being less shifting. However,
the applications of P4-based measures in genetic evaluation is nowadays
limited by the cost and labor associated with obtaining enough P4 samples
to generate the phenotypes on large numbers of cows. Advancing on farm
technologies may produce data useful in the evaluation of P4 reproduction
traits, and that could be an advantage in genetic selection for improved
fertility in the future (Fleming et al., 2019).
On the other hand, as seen before in this chapter, many reproductive
management strategies rely on estrus behavioral signs. Thus, assessing the
ability and strength of estrous expression in dairy cows could improve
reproductive efficiency. Thanks to the trend among toward the uptake of
new technologies by farmers for detecting estrus that accurately identify
individual cows by continuously monitoring with minimal labor involve

(e.g., pedometers and activity tags), more phenotypes that are secondary
signs of estrus are being recorded. Thus, the interval to first high activity
may in the future be applicable to genetic evaluation for improved fertility
and reproduction in dairy cattle (Fleming et al., 2019).

In addition to the boosting in understanding the usefulness of new
fertility phenotypes, the development of technology has facilitated the use
of current fertility traits. For example, pregnancy loss is one of the most
important factors affecting fertility in dairy cattle. So, using it as a fertility
trait could be vital in enhancing fertility in cows (Fleming et al., 2019).
Other aspect in which genetics is focusing is the reproductive manage-
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ment strategies. New reproductive management tools, such as estrus
synchronization and TAI are used worldwide at present. Nevertheless,
data related to reproductive strategies related to reproductive phenotypes
is scarce, and if this new technologies are not taken into account during the
selection process, it might benefit cows that are merely good responders
to synchronization protocols (Berry et al., 2016). Relatedly, it has been
reported low to moderate maternal heritability for number of flushed
ova, transferable embryos, degenerated embryos, unfertilized oocytes,
and percentage of transferable embryos when superovulation protocols
have been studied as a fertility trait (Miglior et al., 2017). Recent studies
have investigated the genetics components of various traits related to
reproductive technologies and found many regions of the genome associ-
ated with them (Gaddis et al., 2017). However, more investigation in this
behalf is needed in order to fully understand the relationship between
these technologies and genetics.
As reported in this chapter, the interaction nutrition-genetics can also
improve fertility in dairy cattle. This interaction can be especially impor-
tant during development (both pre- and postnatal), since it may result in
permanent changes in body composition and metabolic function of the
offspring (fetal programming), which primarily involve modifications in
the chromatin structure through acetylation of histones or methylation of
DNA (Wu et al., 2006). The understanding of the effects and mechanism
of this process in reproduction could be beneficial in the improvement of
dairy cattle fertility (Bach, 2019).
Therefore, a deeper knowledge of genetics and genomics, together
with the evolution and improvement in the selection schemes of our dairy
sires and cows worldwide are key factors for the general reproductive
improvement in the dairy sector.

5.5 DAIRY CATTLE WELFARE
Animal welfare is a very recent discipline, being the first paper using these
terms published in 1983. However, care for the well-being of production

animals was an issue much before that year, and was first entered in the
social media by the 1960s (von Keyserlingk and Weary, 2017).
Animal welfare bas been defined by the World Organization for Animal
Health (OIE) as “the physical and mental state of an animal in conditions
in which it lives and dies” (World Organisation for Animal Health, 2015).
To describe the right for welfare of animals under human control, five
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conditions known as the Five Freedoms were published in 1965 (freedom
from hunger, malnutrition and thirst, freedom from fear and distress,
freedom from physical and thermal discomfort, freedom from pain, injury,
and disease, and freedom to express normal patterns of behavior) (Farm
Animal Welfare Council—5 Freedoms, 2009), and are nowadays used
worldwide to describe animal welfare.
This discipline has been growing in importance during the last years,
both in a scientific and social way. During this period, hundreds of papers
have been published on this regard, and different legislations has been
developed worldwide (von Keyserlingk and Weary, 2017). Some initia-
tives have also been created in order to control and evaluate the well-being
of the farm animals, like the Welfare Quality® project in Europe (Welfare
Quality Network, 2018). Moreover, it has been seen that animal welfare
is vital in animal farming, not only because of ethical issues regarding the
animal, but also because of its impact in productivity. For example, as have
been reviewed before in this chapter, dairy cattle has been selected only
for milk production for a long time, which has driven to an intensification
of production and a change in the farming system which sometimes has
had a detrimental impact in animal welfare, also implying less production
and fertility (McInerney, 2004).
Thus, animal welfare is a broad subject, and its understanding is
complicated (von Keyserlingk and Weary, 2017). But nowadays, there is
more and more knowledge about the effect of stress in production and
fertility (and also the effect of lowering those stress levels in farm animals)
(von Borell et al., 2007; Whitfield, 2017).
Stress has been defined in different ways over the years. For instance, it
was defined by Ewing et al. (1999) as the unfitness to adapt to the environ-
ment and reproduce effectively, which gives us the idea that fertility is

linked to stress (and, therefore, to animal welfare). The detailed ways in

which stress influences reproduction are still not well understood, but may
involve a number of endocrine, paracrine, and neural systems (Tilbrook
et al., 2000). It is known that stress blocks or delays the preovulatory

LH surge in cattle, resulting in a prolonged follicular wave, as well as an
atretic follicle if the dominant follicle is not able to reach the ovulatory
capacity and reduce estradiol production (Dobson and Smith, 2000). It
has also been demonstrated that stress interfere with the onset cycling in
the postpartum cow, delaying the process and causing a worsening of the
fertility parameters of the animal (Huszenicza et al., 2005; Sheldon, 2004).
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Stress can induce a premature luteolysis of the CL, resulting in short inter-
estrus intervals (Huszenicza et al., 2005).
Thus, the studying of stress, stressors, and their management have been
crucial in order to guarantee better welfare of cattle, improving its milk
yield and fertility, being another reason for the change in trend in fertility
traits during the last two decades. Stressor could be categorized into stress
caused by environmental conditions (heat, cold, wind, humidity…), and
management-related stressors (social interactions, interspecies interaction,
manipulation, transportation…) (Moberg, 1985). This classification of
stressor can be useful, since it separates those stressor in which farmers
and veterinarians have less control (environment) and those where the
sector professionals can work in harder in order to achieve the animal
welfare (Whitfield, 2017).
Since the topic of animal welfare is so broad, only two selected
themes will be treated in the present chapter: environmental enrichment
and heat stress.
5.5.1 ENVIRONMENTAL ENRICHMENT
Almost all dairy cattle is nowadays kept indoors during, at least, some part
of their lives, being the number of cows being housed indoors throughout
the year increasing in the last years (Van Vuuren and Van Den Pol-Van
Dasselaar, 2006; Winsten et al., 2010; March et al., 2014). Thus, the facili-
ties where the cow will spend most of her life are critical in order to achieve
optimal levels of cow welfare or cow comfort. Housing management is
an important decision for dairy producers, since it will have considerable
influence on productivity, health, milk quality, reproduction, animal well-
being, and profitability (Bewley et al., 2017).

In continuous indoor housing, also known as zero-grazing systems,

cows are kept in tie-stalls, freestalls, or loose-housing cowsheds, being
the access to pasture limited or absent (Mandel et al., 2016). Keeping
animals indoors has some important welfare benefits, like protection

from predators and toxic plants and reduced exposure to extreme weather
conditions (Schütz et al., 2010). It also enables the farmer to give the
cattle a nutritional balanced diet during the year (Aarhus University,
2009). However, animals also confront a great number of challenges,
including abiotic environmental sources of stress, confinement-specific
stressor (more related to indoor systems) (Morgan and Tromborg, 2007),
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higher incidence of lameness (Haskell et al., 2006), and increasing risk for
claw or foot problems, teat trampling, mastitis, metritis, dystocia, ketosis,
retained placenta, and bacterial infections (Aarhus University, 2009),
diseases that have important effects not only in animal welfare itself, but
also in its productivity and fertility (e.g., recent studies show that lame
cows have 3.5 times greater odds of not resuming cyclicity within 60 days
of calving compare to nonlame cows and that preventing lameness would
decrease the number of cows with delayed cyclicity by 71% (Garbarino et
al., 2004). Once housed, animals are also forced to drastically change their
behavior which, when the environment is too impoverished or too small
may result in frustration and, therefore, stress (Newberry, 1993).
In order to help animals cope with stressors in their surroundings,
prevent frustration and increase the fulfillment of behavioral needs, the
enrichment of the environment can be done (Mandel et al., 2016). Envi-
ronmental enrichment is defined as an improvement in the biological
functioning of confined animals, resulting from modifications to their
environment. Biological functions are referred as increase fitness in a
direct or indirect way, as well as correlation of both (that would be health).
Thus, by environmental enrichment, lifetime reproductive success can be
improved (Newberry, 1995).
There are five categories of environmental enrichment: social, occu-
pational, physical, sensory, and nutritional. The understanding of each
during the last 20 years has caused not only an improvement of cattle
welfare, but also of its fertility.
In relation to social enrichment, more concretely with the cow-human
interaction, it has been recently seen that by practicing positive handling
from an early age, farmers can help animals to reduce stress levels in
some intrusive procedures such as AI, which is positively correlated with

conception rates (Hemsworth et al., 2000). Also the better understanding

of the relationship of cows with their herd mates can be translated in better
welfare levels, since now it is now that cows that change their group expe-
rience high levels of stress due to destabilization of social dynamics (von

Keyserlingk et al., 2008), so other management methods such as using
familiar pens for regrouping the cows (Schirmann et al., 2011) or grouping
during the evening hours (Boyle et al., 2012) are being used.
Occupational enrichment is also vital, and it is highly related to the
type of facilities the animals are maintained in. The decision of one
system or other is important, having consequences in the cow lifestyle
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and, therefore, in its welfare and production (Bewley et al., 2017; Cook,
2019; House, 2019). For example, some studies suggested that freestall
and loose housing systems had better reproductive results than tie-stalls (a
mean of 2.33 inseminations were required to get pregnant the cows in tie-
stalls, compared with 2.32 in freestalls and 1.96 loose housing facilities)
(Konggaard, 1977), that could be explained by the fact that tie-stall kept
animals are more prone lameness and sole disorders than other systems,
as well as more stressed due to the lack of exercise (Bewley et al., 2017;
Mandel et al., 2016; Bielfeldt et al., 2005).
Physical enrichment refers to the one applicated in the farm facilities.
Thus, when designing housing and husbandry systems, the complex cogni-
tive abilities of cows should also be considered (Nawroth et al., 2019). In
zero-grazing systems, facilities are usually designed to provide constant
visual and physical contact between conspecifics (Mandel et al., 2016).
However, recent research shows that cows prefer to isolate themselves in
some moments, like calving or during times of illness (Proudfoot et al.,
2014). Lowering stress levels during calving could be beneficial to fertility
traits in the farm (Borchers and Bewley, n. d.), being vital the adequate
design of the maternity pen (Proudfoot, 2019). Also, the bedding material
plays an important part in animal welfare and it is being studied in order
to give animals maximum levels of comfort. One of the bedding materials
investigated in relationship with fertility traits is the compost bedding.
It has been reported no differences in pregnancy after first insemination,
mortality rate, or incidence of clinical metritis and endometriosis when
comparing compost-bedding and straw-bedding systems. However, they
observed positive effects on udder health (Astiz et al., 2014), which can
correlate with better fertility and longevity, being one good method to
further improve fertility in dairy cattle. In other study, it has been observed

that cows in compost-bedded barns had a better claw health status than
cows in freestall cubicle barns (Burgstaller et al., 2016).
Sensory enrichment is defined as stimulation designed to trigger one or
more of animal’s senses (Wells, 2009) through visual, auditory, olfactory,

tactile, or taste (Mandel et al., 2016; Bloomsmith et al., 1991). Very few
studies have been conducted in each subfield of sensory enrichment (Mandel
et al., 2016), and there is none or very little information regarding its relation-
ship with fertility, which could be a good research are for the future.
Lastly, nutritional enrichment can be done through presenting varied or
novel food types or by changing the method of food delivery (Bloomsmith
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et al., 1991). This second idea is more important for high yielding cow
fertility. Thus, fenceline feeding of TMR, which is the most common food
location in zero-grazing systems (Newberry, 1993) has been seen related
with increased agonistic interactions, which is not the case on pasture,
where the animals are more spaced out from each other (Miller and Wood-
Gush, 1991; DeVries, 2019). Providing animals with a larger feeding
space allows for a 57% reduction of aggressive interactions (DeVries et
al., 2004), being this change also associated with an increase in feeding
activity, especially in subordinate cows (Mandel et al., 2016). This could
be related with an improvement of overall body condition score, which is
correlated with fertility (Pryce et al., 2001).
All things considered, environmental enrichment methods that are
aimed to help cattle to cope better with stressors in their environment,
prevent frustration, and increase the fulfillment of behavioral needs will
help in the improvement of animal welfare and, indirectly, of animal
production and fertility (Mandel et al., 2016).
5.5.2 HEAT STRESS
Escalating global temperatures (Schär et al., 2004), combined with global

increases in the number of production animals and the intensification of
agriculture (Renaudeau et al., 2012) has resulting in heat stress becoming
an important challenge facing the global dairy industry and a major
concern for dairy produces because of its association with decrease in
milk production and fertility (Polsky and von Keyserlingk, 2017). Given
that high milk yielding cows already have elevated internal heat loads, the
effects of cumulative incremental heat are exacerbated when humidity and
temperature values are increased in their surroundings (West, 2003).

Heat stress is defined as the sum of forces acting on an animal that

provokes an increases in its body temperature and is responsible of a physi-
ological (increased respiratory rate, panting, sweating, and reduced milk
yield and reproductive performance) or behavioral response (increased

water intake, shifting feeding times, increase shade seeking) (Rensis and
Scaramuzzi, 2003; West, 2003; Dikmen et al., 2008; Schütz et al., 2008).
In the last years, the effect of exposure to high environmental
temperatures in reproduction has been studied, being outlined its effect
in compromising steredoigenesis and viability of oocytes (Zeron et al.,
2001), reduction of oocyte quality (Hansen, 2002) and reduction of fertil-
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ization rate (Sartori et al., 2002), and therefore, being one of the main
problems that could explained the low fertility rates in dairy cattle. For
example, it has been reported that cows exposed to heat stress prior to
AI were 31–33% less likely to conceive than control ones (Chebel et
al., 2004). This is in consonance with the results obtained by Pereira et
al. which shows a conception rate decline from 21 to 15% when rectal
temperature is greater than 39°C during AI (Pereira et al., 2013). Other
studies shows a decrease in conception rates during summer season that
could be up to 30%, with evident seasonal patterns of estrus detection
(Rensis and Scaramuzzi, 2003). Thus, heat stress affects reproduction in
multiple ways, which are nowadays still being studied, since they are not
fully understood (Fig. 5.6) (Rensis and Scaramuzzi, 2003).
At the present moment, various cooling options for dairy cows are
being studied, based on the principles of convection, conduction, radia-
tion, and evaporation (Polsky and von Keyserlingk, 2017). Fan installation
have been used in order to decrease environment temperature with good
results in animal welfare (decrease of respiratory rate and rectal tempera-
ture and increase in dry matter intake; Armstrong, 1994; Mondaca, 2019).
A modification of fans is to add high pressure mist injector into them
(which function to cool the microclimate air that the cow inspires), or
large water droplets that completely soak the hair coat of the cow (Van
Os, 2019). Both systems have shown to improve conception rates. For
example, in an experiment conducted in summer in Israel, fans with mist
injectors were used, being the conception rates of 57 vs. 17% for cooled
and not cooled cows (Flamenbaum and Galon, 2010). Some recent works
has looked at providing cows with self-controlled showers (operated by
the animals using pressure-sensitive floors), but more research is needed
in order to fully understand this method and its implication in reproductive

physiology (Legrand et al., 2011). Physical structures that provide shade

(trees, roofs, or cloth) are also vital to avoid heat stress, since they create
more hospitable microclimates for cows (Polsky and von Keyserlingk,
2017) that can be beneficial for fertility (44.4 vs. 25.3% conception rates
for shade and no shade available, respectively) (Roman-Ponce et al.,
1977). Nowadays, various intervention techniques are being investigated
to improve the coping abilities of heat stress cows, like selection of genes
like the slick hair gene (SLICK), that controls hair length and could,
therefore, control evaporative heat loss and efficient transfer of heat to the
environment (Dikmen et al., 2008), which can, in a future, help with the
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decrease of fertility during the hot season.
FIGURE 5.6 A schematic representation of possible mechanism for effect of heat stress
on reproduction in the lactating dairy cow. Heat stress reduces dry matter intake, which
inhibits GnRH and LH secretion (dashed lines). It may also influence the hypothalamus-
hypophysis system (solid line), reducing the GnRH and LH secretion. Heat stress can also
compromise the uterine environment (solid thick line) to cause embryo loss and infertility.
(Modified from Rensis and Scaramuzzi, 2003).

So, welfare is a critical area of research. The better understanding of

dairy cattle behavior and the increased consideration toward its well-being
has helped to the increase of cow fertility in the last years. However, more
effort must be done in order to fully understand animal welfare and its
implication in productive and reproductive traits.
5.6 CONCLUSIONS
Nowadays, there is much more knowledge about dairy cattle, which has
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driven to a major change in veterinary practices in farms, from individual
treatment of the animals to the consideration of the farms as a complex
system in which the cow is just another element interacting with the facili-
ties, the farm staff, the feeding system. The deeper understanding of cow’s
physiology has driven to the improvement of reproductive, nutrition, and
breeding management practices, as well as to a major consideration of
animal welfare. The development of technology during this last decade
also plays a key role in the improvement of dairy fertility, since it has
allowed a better data recording, allowing for better consideration of some
aspects of production and reproduction. All in all, thanks to the effort of
all the professionals implicated, plus the advancement in research have
permitted us to deal with high-yielding cows much better than before.
Being able even to change the trend of dairy cow fertility!
KEYWORDS
•• hormonal synchronization programs

•• early non-pregnancy diagnosis
•• pregnancy loss
•• oestrus detection accuracy
•• cattle parity.

REFERENCES
Animal Welfare at a Glance: OIE—World Organisation for Animal Health http://www.oie.

int/en/animal-welfare/animal-welfare-at-a-glance/ (accessed Feb 23, 2019).

Armstrong, D. V. Heat Stress Interaction with Shade and Cooling. J. Dairy Sci. 1994, 77
(7), 2044–2050.
Astiz, S.; Fargas, O. Pregnancy Per AI Differences Between Primiparous and Multiparous
High-Yield Dairy Cows After Using Double Ovsynch or G6G Synchronization Protocols.
Theriogenology 2013, 79 (7), 1065–1070.
Astiz, S.; Sebastian, F.; Fargas, O.; Fernández, M.; Calvet, E. Enhanced Udder Health
and Milk Yield of Dairy Cattle on Compost Bedding Systems During the Dry Period: A
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CHAPTER 6
Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) in Cattle: An Update

SALVADOR RUIZ LÓPEZ
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science,
International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research
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“Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca),
Murcia, Spain
E-mail: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
The technique of ultrasound-guided transvaginal follicular aspiration for

ovum pick-up (OPU) is a non-invasive procedure for recovering oocytes
from antral follicles in live animals, especially in cows and mares. It was
originally developed for assisted reproduction in the human species to
assist infertility and was used for the first time in cattle in the Netherlands
at the end of the decade of the 1980s. OPU does not interfere with the
normal reproduction and production cycles of the donor and can be used
in adult cows in various physiological states, in old animals with reproduc-
tive disorders of non-genetic origin and calves and heifers from 6 months
of age. The repeated recovery of oocytes through OPU allows us to obtain
the highest possible offspring of animals with high genetic value and speed
up processes of animal selection and genetic improvement, while it is an
extraordinary source of oocytes for cloning and transgenesis. It has been
shown to be a feasible and practical alternative to the MOET (Multiple
Ovulation and Embryo Transfer) program and it is being more and more
used for commercial applications in the world. However, we must bear
in mind that the implementation of an OPU program always requires the
support of a specialized laboratory for embryo production.

The aim of this chapter is to describe the most important aspects of the
OPU procedure used in cattle considering its historical development, the
actual situation of OPU worldwide, the OPU equipment and procedure,
technical and biological factors influencing OPU results, other uses of

OPU, potential risks and most common sequelae, a brief review about
OPU in buffaloes, and finally some considerations about the future of
OPU/IVEP (in vitro embryo production).
6.1 INTRODUCTION
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The association of reproductive efficiency and genetic selection is strategic
for the success of dairy and beef industries. Reproductive technologies,
such as ovum pick-up (OPU) and in vitro embryo production (IVEP), can
rapidly enhance genetics of cattle through both female and male linaje
(Watabane et al., 2017).
Puncture and aspiration of bovine ovarian follicles have been used for
several decades to retrieve oocytes for IVEP. Cumulus oocyte complexes
(COCs) can be recovered from the ovaries of both slaughtered cows or living
donors. The method of oocyte retrieval has an impact on COC morphology,
and the importance of “good” quality oocytes as the primary pre-requisite for
success in oocyte maturation and in vitro development has been considered
(Merton et al., 2003). From a practical reproductive perspective, aspiration
of immature follicles is particularly interesting when performed on living
donors, because the procedure can be repeated, and is highly repeatable
(Bols and Stout, 2018). Effectively, one of the fundamental conditions for
successful commercial IVEP is the development of an efficient system that
allows the recovery of oocytes of living donors of known genetic value
that can be used several times with minimal consequences for the animals
(Da Silva et al., 2016). The repeated recovery of oocytes through OPU
allows to obtain the highest possible offspring of animals with high genetic
value and speed up processes of animal selection and genetic improvement
(paternal and maternal way), while it is an extraordinary source of oocytes
for cloning and transgenesis (Ding et al., 2008).
The technique of ultrasound-guided transvaginal follicular aspiration
for OPU is a non-invasive procedure for recovering oocytes from antral
follicles in live animals, especially in cows and mares. It was originally
developed for assisted reproduction in the human species to assist infertility
(Lenz and Lauritsen, 1982), and was used for the first time in cattle in the
Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) in Cattle: An Update 141
Netherlands at the end of the decade of the 80s (Pieterse et al., 1988). The
use of OPU routinely in veterinary assisted reproduction began in 1994
(Kruip et al., 1994).
Unlike conventional Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer (MOET),

OPU does not interfere with the normal reproduction and production cycles of
the donor. It is a technique that can be used in adult cows in various physiological
states (cyclical, non-cyclic, in the first third of gestation and in which they do
not respond to hormonal stimuli), in old animals with reproductive disorders
of non-genetic origin (Galli et al., 2001), in calves and heifers from 6 months
(mo) of age (Taneja et al., 2000), and even soon, animals after calving (2–3
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weeks) could be a suitable donor. It has been shown to be a feasible and
practical alternative to the MOET program (Bousquet et al., 1999), and it is
being more and more used for commercial applications in the world (Pontes
et al., 2011). However, we must bear in mind that the implementation of an
OPU program always requires the support of a specialized laboratory for an
embryo production. Moreover, because of the economic value of the calves
born, adequate veterinary assistance is recommended to minimize losses
owing to the possible incidence of the large offspring syndrome (LOS) or
other common perinatal pathologies (Galli et al., 2014).
Altogether, the cost of producing an embryo by OPU in dairy cows in
Europe could be 50–100% greater than by MOET. This greater cost and
the current breeding context in Europe allow for the use of OPU for a
very specialized niche market. Different conditions in other countries offer
different opportunities also dictated by economics: for example, the large
use in Brazil is certainly determined by the fact that OPU in general works
better and it is more cost effective than superovulation in Bos indicus beef
donors (Galli et al., 2014).
The aim of this chapter is to describe the most important aspects of the
OPU procedure used in cattle considering its historical development, actual
situation of OPU worldwide, the OPU equipment and procedure, technical
and biological factors influencing OPU results, other uses of OPU, potential
risks and most common sequelae, a brief review about OPU in buffaloes,
and finally some considerations about the future of OPU/IVEP.
6.2 HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT
The first developed in vivo oocyte retrieval procedure was laparotomy that
provides full access to the abdominal cavity for the direct manipulation
of the internal organs. Despite easy access to the ovaries, all surgery risks
were present, like anesthesia, contamination, and problems performing the

same procedure several times. Other possibilities were also considered in
the past, including colpotomy, small incision in the vagina fornix, with
usual risks of surgical procedure and clear limitations, and laparoscopy,

via either the transvaginal or paralumbar approach, comparatively less
invasive method; however, despite its promising prospects, many articles
described technical difficulties in addition to the occurrence of fibroids
and ovarian adhesions (reviewed by Da Silva et al., 2016).
All of the oocyte recovery-related challenges in cattle were considered
in a new prospective analysis of its successful in women. Effectively, most
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of the new methodologies proposed in live animals represent adaptations
to novelties, which have been developed in human. Of course, these tech-
niques have been adapted in relation to their use and application in animals.
Initially, mature human oocytes were recovered ultrasonically guided
percutaneous aspiration through the abdomen under local anesthesia in
early 1908s (Lenz and Kauritsen, 1982); subsequently, ultrasound guided
transvaginal oocyte aspiration was developed in humans (Dellenbach et
al., 1984).
Repeated in vivo oocyte collection in cattle was first performed by
Canadian researchers who used endoscopy via the right paralumbar
fossa (Lambert et al., 1983). Callesen et al. (1987) were the first to use
ultrasonography to collect oocytes from living cattle, using an ultra-
sonographic transducer equipped with a needle guide via a transcutaneous
approach. This study was carried out in seven superovulated heifers.
By rectal palpation, ovaries and follicles were visualized by ultrasound
examination. A total number of 38 follicles were transcutaneously
punctured and 16 oocytes were collected that resulted in a recovery rate
of 42% (RR = number of oocytes collected/100 follicles punctured) and
2.3 oocytes/heifer.
In vivo oocyte collection by OPU was first established in cattle by
a Dutch team, modifying a transvaginal ovum pick-up technique origi-
nally developed for use in human reproduction and in cattle. Pieterse et
al. (1988) added an extension device to a convex ultrasound transducer
that allowed it to be manipulated outside the bovine vagina and enabled
nonsurgical oocyte recovery in cattle for the first time. A big advantage
of the transvaginal approach in cattle is that it is possible to both secure
and manipulate the ovary per rectum so that it can be moved around the
ultrasound transducer and needle, to present the most optimal position for

puncture. In this study, OPU was performed once a week in 10 cows for
a total number of 36 transvaginal aspiration procedures, during which 54
oocytes were recovered from 197 punctured follicles. The mean RR was
27.4% and the number of oocytes/cow/sampling was 1.5. The stimulation

of the ovaries with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) increased
both RR (40 vs. 18%) and the number of oocytes/cow/sampling (2.7 vs.
1.0). The estrous cycle of these animals was not interrupted due to OPU
procedure on the basis of plasma progesterone measurements (reviewed
by Boni, 2012). As a result, a minimally invasive method with high repeat-
ability (Pieterse et al., 1991) for repeated oocyte retrieval from living
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donor cows became available.
Another possibility to collect oocytes from living cows was proposed
by Reichenbach et al. (1994), who developed a laparoscopic procedure
of oocyte collection (L-OPU). This technique allows the repeated
laparoscopic examination of the internal reproductive organs of cows and
heifers through the vaginal fornix and visually assisted follicle aspiration.
L-OPU showed several advantages with respect to OPU; in particular, the
aspiration of primarily superficial follicles; the direct view of the ovary; and
the aspiration procedure and a reduced risk of injury to the ovary. L-OPU
and OPU techniques were compared by different researchers. Becker et al.
(1996) compared transvaginal OPU under ultrasonographic guidance with
oocyte retrieval by endoscopic instruments. They concluded that the use
of ultrasound resulted in better quality COCs, although it is not entirely
clear why endoscopic aspiration should cause more damage to the COCs.
Santl et al. (1998) made a comparison of ultrasound-guided (U-OPU) vs.
L-OPU in Simmental heifers. These researchers found higher proportion
of class I oocytes (Grade 1 or A; Oropeza et al., 2004) after U-OPU
more than that after L-OPU; these differences also were reflected by the
cleavage rate, and morulae and blastocysts rates, attributing to the greater
changes in vacuum pressure during L-OPU vs. U-OPU as responsible for
the difference in oocyte quality.
Finally, as a consequence OPU procedure was easy, repeatable, featured
minimal risks, and was developed as a successful technique for retrieving
oocytes from selected heifers and cows of high genetic merit (Kruip et al.,
1994), to breed large numbers of calves with known production traits, and
to shorten the generation interval in cattle breeding programs. Moreover,
OPU allowed to obtain embryos in situations of extraovarian infertility
that result in the birth of healthy animals, confirming that most cows clas-
sified as infertile are able to produce viable gametes (Seneda et al., 2001).

Indeed, the ultimate aim was to produce more embryos and pregnan-
cies per donor cow than was possible through MOET programs (Pieterse
et al., 1991). Some advantages of OPU/IVEP over MOET are that multiple
offspring for nearly every donor cow can be produced within a limited
period, the number of offspring per unit time is significantly larger, and
the technology is less dependent on the reproductive status of the donor
cow. In addition, several bulls can be used for in vitro fertilization (IVF)
on oocytes from one collection, rather than one bull as in MOET, thus
maximizing genetic gain and minimizing inbreeding (van Wagtendonk-de
Leeuw, 2005).
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OPU/IVEP, however, requires a more sophisticated and expensive
laboratory setting compared to MOET, and the costs per OPU/IVEP
embryo are approximately twice those of MOET embryos. Although
OPU/IVEP has clear advantages over MOET and artificial insemination
(AI) in terms of number of offspring that can be produced per cow per
time span (on average for AI 1 calf/year, for MOET 20–25 calves/year,
and for OPU/IVEP 80–100 calves/year). The efficiency of reproductive
technologies in terms of number of offspring per 100 immature oocytes
declines significantly with increased levels of artifice of the technologies,
from AI (with 55 live calves on the ground 1 week after birth), MOET
(28 calves), until OPU/IVEP (with 11 calves). At the same time, problems
associated with calves in terms of birth weight, congenital abnormali-
ties, and perinatal mortality increase. This relative low efficiency in the
production of healthy calves together with the relative high cost of
compared to MOET in cattle makes its use justifiable mainly for breeding
companies and breeders, where the benefits in terms of semen sales from
resulting high genetic bulls may outweigh the costs (reviewed by van
Wagtendonk-de Leeuw, 2005).
Pontes et al. (2009) investigated why the preferred means to produce
bovine embryos in Brazil has changed from in vivo to in vitro, and
compared embryo yield and pregnancy rate between these methods in the
same Nelore (B. indicus) donor cows. The average number of embryos
produced by OPU/IVEP (9.4 ± 5.3) was higher than the MOET method
(6.7 ± 3.7). However, pregnancy rates were lower following transfer
of in vitro produced (IVP) (33.5%) vs. in vivo derived (IVD) embryos
(41.5%). They concluded that in Nelore cows, with an interval of 15 days
between OPU procedures, it was possible to produce more embryos and
pregnancies compared to conventional MOET.

6.3 OPU WORLWIDE: ACTUAL SITUATION
According to the International Embryo Transfer Society (IETS) statistics,

the number of embryos produced in vitro and transferred into recipients

has increased in the last years. This outstanding growth of OPU/IVEP
seen in the last years is a consequence of a number of factors, such
as the significant improvement of in vitro culture procedures and the
successful use of sex-sorted semen in the IVEP programs enabling the
manipulation of the proportion of male and female embryos produced
(Blondin, 2015).
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In 2016, we could already appreciate an approach between the number
of IVD embryos by MOET (516,585) compared with IVP embryos
transferred (448,113) (Perry, 2017). In 2017, for the first time in the IETS
records, both total production and the number of transfers were greater for
IVP than for IVD embryos in cattle. Compared to 2016, there was a 48.9%
increase in the number of IVP embryos recorded, whereas the number of
IVD embryos collected decrease by 21.7%, resulting in a 2-fold difference
between IVP and IVD totals (992,289 vs. 495,054, respectively). The main
factor driving this change was a remarkable growth of IVEP both in North
America and Europe. The development of IVEP in these regions affected
the world ET scenario and, for the first time since 1999, the number of
IVP embryos in North America was greater than South America (reviewed
by Viana, 2018). In 2018, a total of 1,499,367 transferrable embryos were
collected or produced, which represents a relative stabilization compared
with 2017. In regard to type of embryo, IVD and IVP embryos represented
31.3% (469,967) and 68.7% (1,029,400) of the total, respectively (Viana,
2019) (Fig. 6.1).
In Table 6.1, we refer the data from the IETS Data Retrieval Committee
compiled by Joao Viana globally during 2019, for embryo transfer activities in
2018 and presented in the 28th Annual Report, regarding embryos produced
in vitro by OPU in the different regions worldwide (Viana, 2019). IETS does
not have the data for Asia in the period 2016–2018, so the latest data recorded
for 2015 has been included (Perry, 2017). In addition, we have included
in this table the latest data for embryo transfer activity in Europe in 2018,
presented at the last Congress of the Association of Embryo Technology in
Europe (AETE) held in Murcia (Spain) (Mikkola, 2019). Finally, in the table
we considered OPU sessions or donors, collected oocytes and embryos, as
well as the embryo/OPU session index.

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FIGURE 6.1 Number of bovine embryos IVD, IVP, and total recorded in the period
1999–2018. Summary of the International Embryo Transfer Society (IETS) statistical data
collected by the Data Retrieval Committee (Viana, 2019).
TABLE 6.1 OPU and Bovine Embryos Produced In Vitro Worldwide in 2018.
Regions Donors Oocytes Embryos Embryos/session
Africa 621 18,486 3741 6.02
Asia (2015) 3177 59,224 9438 2.97
Europe 14,200 148,859 36,832 2.59
North America 118,410 2,004,491 497,511 4.20
Oceania 2,056 35,767 11,997 5.83
South America 78,522 1,256,556 444,537 5.66
Total 216,986 3,523,383 1,004,056 4.63
Source: Adapted from Perry, 2017; Mikkola, 2019; Viana, 2019.
In the last 2 years, USA has become in the world leader in the produc-
tion of OPU/IVEP bovine embryos relegating Brazil to a second place.
According to the data of the IETS for 2018, USA performed 108,827
OPU sessions with a total of 1,843,458 oocytes and an average of 16.94
oocytes/OPU session; 446,028 transferable embryos and an average of 4.1
embryos per OPU session (Viana, 2019).

In contrast, numbers have stabilized in Brazil, increasing the difference

between the two countries. According to the data of the IETS for 2018,
Brazil made a total of 59,638 OPU sessions with a total of 843,418
recovered oocytes, and an average of 14.14 oocytes/OPU session. As for

the obtained embryos, the figure of 341,583, with an average of embryos
per session of OPU, is 5.73 (Viana, 2019). However, we must consider that
46.42% OPU sessions in USA were with the stimulation of donors and that
in Brazil, the total OPU sessions were in non-stimulation donors. Both in
USA and in Brazil, most IVP embryos come from dairy than from beef
breeds (53.3% and 62.3%, respectively) (Viana, 2019).
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With respect to Europe, AETE updated the data of OPU and embryos
produced in vitro in Europe for 2018 (Mikkola, 2019). In this statistic,
the number of OPU sessions in Europe was 14,200 with a total number
of oocytes of 148,859, an average of 10.48 oocytes per session of OPU,
36,832 total in vitro produced embryos and 2.59 embryo index per OPU
session (Mikkola, 2019).
OPU remains the main source of oocytes for IVF (98.9% of IVP
embryos), whereas the number of embryos produced using abattoir-derived
oocytes decreased in 2018 (-4.5%) (Viana, 2019).
6.4 OPU EQUIPMENT AND PROCEDURE
The OPU system consists of three major components (Fig. 6.2): an ultraso-
nographic scanner with an appropriate transducer (probe), a vacuum pump,
and a needle guidance system connected to an oocyte collecting tube (Bols
and Stout, 2018).
For visualization of the ovarian follicles, native endovaginal probes
(5–7.5 MHz) are available essentially for human use. Several manufacturers
of ultrasound equipment have provided custom-made plastic holders
or handgrips that can house generic convex array transducers together
with the needle guide. The use of native endovaginal probes allows the
complete replacement, for each donor animal, not only of the probe
latex cover, but also of the needle guide together with the needle (Galli
et al., 2014). Bols et al. (1995) proposed an OPU device that mounted
19G disposable needles that were connected to silicone tubing by means
of a stainless-steel connector. This system was inserted into a stainless-
steel tube, creating a rigid structure that allowed the needle to move back
and forth. At present, there are already several commercial companies
(Minitube, IMV Technologies, etc.) that manufacture specific holders for

OPU in cattle.
Inside the handgrip close to the transducer, the puncture needle can be
visualized on the ultrasound screen when it is advanced into the sonographic

field to enter a follicle and to facilitate visualization; it is helpful to have a
biopsy guide on the ultrasound screen. This biopsy line programmed into
the scanner’s software is displayed on the screen and indicates where the
follicle needs to be positioned for successful puncture.
The needle is in turn connected to a vacuum pump by silicone or Teflon
tubing such that follicular contents are aspirated as soon as aspiration pres-
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sure is applied via the vacuum pump. The vacuum pump usually provides
a vacuum set at flow rate between 15 and 25 ml/min to ensure maximum
recovery with the least damage to the COCs. Flow rates are more indica-
tive than vacuum pressure because the gauge of the needle and the length
of the tubing can make a big difference (Galli et al., 2001).
The washing and oocyte collection medium consist in phosphate-
buffered saline (PBS) supplemented with heparin (2.2 IU/ml), to prevent
clotting, and fetal bovine serum (1%) (Ruiz et al., 2013b).
The follicular fluid and oocytes are collected into a collection device
positioned between the needle and the pump. This oocyte collection
device can be a regular embryo filter or a simple Falcon tube sealed with a
stopper, into which an afferent tube delivers the follicle aspirate and from
which an efferent line is connected to the vacuum pump that applies the
aspiration pressure.
Prior to OPU cows can be sedated with xylazine (i.m.), treated with
carprofen (s.c.) to prevent pain, to ensure comfort, and thus to improve
reproductive efficiency; finally, epidural anesthesia is induced using lido-
caine 2% (Ruiz et al., 2013b). Subsequently, the feces are removed from
the rectum; the tail has been fixed to one side; the vulva and perineum are
thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before the OPU device, containing the
transducer and the needle guidance system, is inserted into the vagina.
While the OPU handgrip can be manipulated with one hand outside the
cow, the head of the ultrasound transducer is positioned cranio-dorsally to
the left or right of the cervix, depending on which ovary is to be collected
from. Using the other hand, normally left hand in a right-handed person,
per rectum, the operator fixes the ovary and positions it against the head
of the transducer such that the ovary and follicles can be visualized on the
ultrasound screen. The operator then advances the needle slowly forward

until the vaginal wall is pierced and the needle is visualized entering the
ultrasound field. By monitoring the needle’s position and simultaneously
manipulating the ovary transrectally, the needle can be directed into a
follicle. Once the needle enters the follicle, the aspiration pump is acti-
vated using the foot pedal and the follicular fluid, and COCs are collected
into the embryo filter that contains oocyte collection medium. An assistant
should wash the system every time and 3–4 follicles are punctured to avoid
excessive oocyte loss and improve the RR.
Subsequently, the filter contents are washed and transferred to a Petri
dish and the oocytes are identified using a stereomicroscope, captured using
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a glass pipette, and placed into maturation medium. After 24 h of in vitro
maturation (IVM), they will be fertilized in vitro and cultured for 7 days
in vitro to reach the blastocyst stage (reviewed by Bols and Stout, 2018).
FIGURE 6.2 OPU equipment and procedure. (A) Cow in restraint with the operator
cleaning rectum and all the equipment prepared for OPU session. (B) Detail of endovaginal
scanner (5–7.5 MHz), handgrip, needle guidance system, and 18G (1.2 × 40 mm) needle.
(C) Introducing handgrip and needle guidance system in cow. (D) Ovary ecographic image
surrounding by operator’s fingers. Red arrow: Ovarian follicles between 6 and 10 mm
diameter. Yellow arrow: Biopsy line.

6.5 FACTORS AFFECTING OPU RESULTS
OPU success requires consideration of the technical aspects such as

transducer type and frequency, needle puncture, vacuum pressure, and

operator experience. The biological aspects are also important and include
individual variations, breed and age of the donor, physiological status and
body conditions of the donors, frequency and timing of follicle puncture,
and hormonal stimulation to prepare donor for OPU.
The issue is obviously complex considering differences in breeds, repro-
ductive statuses, operator ability, and other factors. In addition, technical
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improvements increase the number of aspirated oocytes even with the use
of an OPU system with or without hormonal stimulation. The knowledge
of the technical variables is essential for maximizing follicle aspiration
efficiency (Da Silva et al., 2016).
The implementation of an OPU program requires always the support
of a specialized laboratory for embryo production. Moreover, because of
the economic value of the calves born, adequate veterinary assistance is
recommended to minimize losses owing to the possible incidence of the
large offspring syndrome or other common perinatal pathologies (Galli et
al., 2014).
6.5.1 TECHNICAL FACTORS
OPU success rate is quantified first in terms of the oocyte RR, which
is influenced by factors including needle diameter, aspiration pressure
ultrasound equipment, operator experience, and another technical factors.
As a result, RRs have been reported to vary between 7% and 70% for
different OPU teams. For example, Galli et al. (2001) obtained an oocyte
RR of 55–60% of the follicles punctured with their particular conditions of
work: needles 17G-55 cm and 19G-7 cm; vacuum pump set at 115 mm Hg
(flow rate: 20–25 ml/min); and as ultrasound scanners a Toshiba Capasee
and a Medison Sonovet 600 equipped with a 6 MHz endovaginal probes
with a custom-made holder.
Over the years, many different needle diameters and aspiration pressures
have been used in either experimental or commercial bovine OPU programs,
which makes it difficult to directly compare recovery rates. A final very
important factor determining OPU outcome is the experience of the operator
or the team that is retrieving the oocytes (reviewed by Bols and Stout, 2018).

6.5.1.1 FOLLICULAR ASPIRATION NEEDLES
Transvaginal oocyte recovery in cattle was first performed using long

needles (55–60 cm) with an outer diameter of 1–1.5 mm designed specific

for follicular aspiration in cows (Pieterse et al., 1988). Despite the good
efficiency of the long needles, their high cost represented an obstacle to
the regular use of OPU worldwide; moreover, another major disadvantage
of these needles is that they become blunt quite quickly and, even with
regular re-sharpening, never regain their original sharpness, and contained
a large dead space. Due to their price, the same needle was commonly
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used in several animals and the bevel had reduced ability to penetrate the
ovary, forcing to the operator to use greater force during the puncture. This
situation presented two problems: one was the possibility of damage to
the ovarian stroma, especially in animals with repeated punctures; and the
second one referred to low oocyte recovery resulting from re-used needles
causing abrupt follicular rupture, which increases the risk of oocytes
falling into the abdominal cavity (Da Silva et al., 2016). Alternative OPU
systems were achieved, when the long needles were successfully replaced
with disposable hypodermic needles (Bols et al., 1995).
The needle inner diameter is another important aspect to consider.
Needles with diameters larger than 18G are associated with higher recovery
rates as well as higher percentages of denuded oocytes. The reason for this
is that a large diameter needle enables quick flow of the oocytes and granu-
losa cells from the cumulus oophorus, which may easily detach from the
zona pellucida. Another problem is the large ovarian area that is damaged
during the puncture, which also increases the degree of blood aspiration.
On the other hand, a needle with too small a diameter (<21G) provides a
low speed flow, which increases the possibility of the oocyte lost during the
procedure and falling into the abdominal cavity. Bols et al. (1996) studied
the effects of aspiration vacuum and three different needle diameters (18,
19, and 21G) on the morphology of COCs and developmental capacity
of the oocyte after IVF using a disposable OPU needle guidance system
whose construction permits its use in vitro. The highest oocyte RR were
obtained when using the thickest needle (18G) and the thinner needles
result in a higher proportion of recovered COCs with a compact cumulus,
regardless of the aspiration vacuum. Considering all these aspects, it is
well accepted that the best diameters are 18–20G (reviewed by Da Silva
et al., 2016).

Another important point related to the needle is the bevel length. Bols
et al. (1997) studied the effects of needle tip bevel on the morphology and
developmental capacity of bovine COCs, testing three different diameters
(18, 19, and 20G) and two different needle bevels (long and short). The
results showed that the length of the needle bevel has a significant effect
on oocyte recovery, in favor of the long-beveled needle. The probable
explanation for this is the sharp edge of long bevel allows rapid follicular
penetration, whereas short bevels are usually less sharp.
Regarding the needle length, 40–75 mm is considered ideal. Needles
<40 mm do not cover the ovary during the puncture, and excessive manipu-
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lation is required to reach all follicles; on the other hand, needles >75 mm
are too flexible and bend easily.
Finally, a further increase in oocyte recovery can be obtained by twisting
the needle within the follicle. This technique showed a significant improve-
ment of approximately 30% of the RR (Sasamoto et al., 2003) due to a better
detachment of the COC by curettage of the follicular wall during the follicle
aspiration.
6.5.1.2 VACUUM PUMP
A combination of needle diameter and vacuum pressure contributes to

oocyte efficiency and quality. Considering the vacuum itself, some studies
have linked low pressure such as 50 mmHg with low aspiration efficiency
because there is not enough suction to collect the oocytes when the
puncture is performed. However, higher pressure such as 120 mmHg may
cause damage to oocytes or full loss of cumulus oophorus cells. As soon
as higher aspiration vacuum is used, a decrease of the number of compact
CCOs can be observed resulting in a higher proportion of naked oocytes.
There is large variation among studies with values of 40–400 mmHg (Bols
et al., 1996).
The exact aspiration pressure exerted through the tip of the needle
depends on the aspiration device, the length and diameter of the tubing,
the size and type of collection vessel, as well as on the needle diameter.
To make comparisons possible, the aspiration pressure needs to be
expressed in terms of the amount of fluid (in ml) that can be aspirated
per minute, rather than in mmHg exerted from the vacuum pump.
Effectively, we must considerer that a modest change in needle diameter

can triple the rate of fluid aspiration without any change in aspiration
pressure (Bols and Stout, 2018). Considerable variation 4.4–40 ml/min
has been reported, although the range of 15–25 ml/min has been most
widely used since it demonstrated high efficiency of oocyte recovery and

minimal damage to the cumulus oophorus during OPU (Bungartz et al.,
1995; Galli et al., 2001).
Many vacuum pumps have been considered viable options for OPU
in cows. Theoretically, any vacuum machine featuring pressure control
could be used. OPU can be performed using aspiration machines that are
commonly used for several health applications such as dentistry, abdominal
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surgery, or controlled infusion. Currently, many devices designed specifi-
cally for OPU in cows are commercially available (reviewed by Da Silva
et al., 2016).
6.5.1.3 ULTRASONOGRAPHY
Transducer frequency and sensitivity of the ultrasound equipment consti-

tute a significant variable in the oocyte recovery process and represent
another parameter of extreme relevance for the OPU efficiency. Reports
involve frequencies of 3.5–7.5 MHz. The first study on OPU in The Neth-
erlands used a 5.0 MHz sector scanner probe allowing the visualization of
follicles larger than 3 mm. The passage to a 6.5 MHz curved array probe
significantly improved either the number of visible follicles or the number
of the collected oocytes (Kruip et al., 1994). A comparison between a
linear array and a mechanical multiple angle sector (MAP) transducer for
OPU was made by Bols et al. (2004). A significant difference was found
for the ability to visualize smaller follicles in favor of the MAP transducer.
Considering that the operator will manipulate the ovary very close to
the transducer, the adoption of high frequencies of 6–8 MHz is recom-
mended since they provide the best image definition of follicles and other
ovarian structures (Da Silva et al., 2016).
The vast majority of OPU procedures are performed with convex or
micro convex transducers, which are commonly used in humans as well.
Linear probes, the most versatile transducer type in veterinary medicine,
present a lower OPU efficiency; approximately, 10–20% of follicles cannot
be reached due to limited space between the ovary and needle (Seneda et
al., 2003); moreover, the ovary size may represent a critical aspect in the
use of a linear transducer.
Galli et al. (2001) made an interesting review about different equip-

ment, scanners and probes, referred in the literature until that moment;
we can quote the following: Aloka 500 with a 5 MHz convex array trans-
ducer; Hitachi EUB 415 with a 8.5 MHz vaginal curved array; Capasee
Toshiba with a 6 MHz human endovaginal probe; Medison Sonovet 600
with an ad hoc endovaginal probe; Hitachi EUB 405 with a 6.5 MHz
finger-tip probe and Pie Medical Falco-Vet scanner with a 5–7.5 MHz
human endovaginal probe.
At present, several commercial companies have designed their own
scanners, transducers, and holders for performing OPU in cows (e.g. Easi-
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Scan from BCF-Technologies, “All in one” and Exago or Exapad from
Echo Control Medical-ECM-; both companies form a new imaging division
“IMV Imaging” within the IMV Technology Group).
6.5.1.4 OPU TEAM AND OPERATOR EXPERIENCE
A technique with people involved will always be affected by the perfor-

mance of those individuals. The OPU technique is performed by either
one or two persons and, in certain companies, the same people carry out
the development of the technique in a similar way during years, using the
same conditions techniques. The experience of the operator in a one-person
system or the operator and the assistant (in a system of two people) has a
significant effect in the number and quality of collected oocytes (Merton
et al., 2003) and in a proper way an adequate selection of operators and/
or assistants it can help improve the results. Therefore, in an embryo tech-
nology program with only one or two OPU technicians, the overall results
of OPU/IVEP will be determined to a substantial extent by the OPU team,
as evidenced by an in-depth analysis of 7,800 OPU sessions performed in
“Holland Genetics” by Merton et al. (2003).
6.5.2 BIOLOGICAL FACTORS
A substantial body of literature is available on biological factors that might

influence the likelihood of blastocyst formation when IVEP is based on
COCs recovered via OPU. Now, we are going to review some factors
that are directly related to the OPU procedure. Between these biological
factors, we can include the frequency and timing of follicle puncture, the

physiological status and body condition of the donor, individual variations,

the breed and age of the donor, the hormone stimulation to prepare donors
for OPU, and finally the influence of climate and season.
6.5.2.1 FREQUENCY AND TIMING OF FOLLICLE PUNCTURE
There are two major OPU systems including non-stimulation and pre-
stimulation procedure, the difference is whether the donor will be stimu-
lated with hormone prior to OPU. The original OPU procedure includes
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no hormone stimulation.
The frequency of sampling represents a crucial point. OPU routinely
performs twice-a-week (usually Monday and Thursday), which allows the
maximum recovery of oocytes of suitable quality for embryo production in
a given time interval compared to once-a-week OPU, because no dominant
follicle develops when all visible follicles are aspirated in the OPU process.
While in most once-a-week collections, a dominant follicle develops at the
successive collection, which causes the regression and degeneration of
the subordinate follicles. In a result, oocytes collected by this scheme are
relatively less and with low quality in a given time interval. In the once-a-
week collection schedule, the donors also can come into estrus while this is
never the case in a twice-a-week schedule (Galli et al., 2001).
On a per cow per session basis, there was no difference between “OPU
1/week” and “OPU 2/week” protocols in terms of the average number of
follicles aspirated, oocytes retrieved, and blastocysts produced on Day 7.
While on a weekly basis, those three indexes were significantly higher in
the “OPU 2/week” protocol than those in the “OPU 1/week” (Chaubal et
al., 2006).
Viana et al. (2004) evaluated oocyte recovery and embryo yield
using these two different ovarian follicular aspiration schedules, once a
week (1x) and twice weekly (2x), for nine consecutive weeks in donor
non-lactating cows of the Gyr breed. More oocytes were recovered per
session in 1x as compared with 2x (8.9 ± 0.8 vs. 7.0 ± 0.7), resulting in
a greater RR in this group (74.3% vs. 58.7%). More COCs of Grade 1
were recovered from 2x (22.6% vs. 13.3%). There was no difference in
cleavage rate between groups, but the percentage of embryos that reached
the blastocyst stage was greater in 2x as compared with 1x (31.8% vs.
21.6%). The results from this study demonstrated that the use of shorter
intervals (3–4 days, twice week) between successive OPU sessions was
the preferred schedule for recovering greater quality COCs and maxi-
mizing IVEP in Gyr (B. indicus) cows.
Moreover, this system does not interfere with the normal reproduction
cycles of the donor; there were no any long-term detrimental effects on the
donor cow’s fertility even after twice-a-week OPU for over a year (Galli et
al., 2001; Chastan-Maillard et al., 2003) performed by experienced opera-
tors (reviewed by Qi et al., 2013).
Another aspect of the OPU efficiency is related to its continuity.
Petyim et al. (2003) compared the twice-weekly OPU application by using
continuous or discontinuous (i.e. restricted to days 0–12 of the estrous cycle)
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schemes. The mean number of punctured follicles and collected oocytes as
well as the oocyte quality and the cleavage rate did not differ per puncture
session between the two OPU schemes. The discontinuous OPU scheme
permits a normal ovulation and corpus luteum (CL) formation that shows
characteristics similar to those of the pre-OPU period. Heifers submitted to
continuous OPU scheme barely showed cyclicity with irregular interestrous
intervals and weaker signs of estrus (reviewed by Boni, 2012).
In conclusion, twice weekly OPU schedule resulted in an increased
follicular wave frequency, and an arrest of the estrous cycle, follicle matu-
ration, and ovulation. Animals submitted to this sampling regimen entered
a para-physiological status in which follicular waves were uncoupled from
the estrous cycle. However, as soon as OPU sampling ceased, ovulation
took place within 6 days (Kruip et al., 1994).
6.5.2.2 PHYSIOLOGICAL STATUS AND BODY CONDITION OF THE

DONOR
Each donor’s physiological condition, including weight, breed, age, and

individual variations has been characterized in several studies. In cattle
breeding programs, OPU is generally performed on selected healthy heifers
with excellent genetic potential for production traits, which could in them-
selves be predictive for oocyte yield and the number of blastocysts produced
(Merton et al., 2009). The reproductive potential of females can be maxi-
mized if OPU/IVEP embryos are applied in the course of non-productive
periods such as pregnancy, anestrus, and postpartum. OPU can be performed
at various stages of a cow’s reproductive life; even pregnancy does not
exclude OPU, since oocytes can successfully be retrieved during the first 3

months of gestation (Bungartz et al., 1995). The only exception are pregnant
animals after the third or fourth month of pregnancy and animals with severe
ovarian hypoplasia or in the immediate post-partum before ovarian activity
is restored (Galli et al., 2001).

Takuma et al. (2010) compared the OPU efficiency in pregnant and
empty cows between hot and cool seasons. The quality of the collected
COCs did not differ in relation to the reproductive phase of the donor
cows. Analyzing the two reproductive phases, however, the number of
follicles and collected oocytes significant decreased during the hot season,
limitedly in empty cows. In addition, when data from the two seasons
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were combined, pregnant cows showed a significant higher proportion
of cleavage and blastocyst rates and freezable embryos than empty cows
(reviewed by Boni, 2012).
Few studies of OPU/IVEP embryos were performed in early post-
partum period in beef breeds. Perez et al. (2000) observed that the number
of follicles aspirated and oocytes recovered were greater from FSH-treated
cows at days 25 and 35 postpartum compared to cows not treated with
FSH. Kendrick et al. (1999) found that the number of oocytes retrieved
by OPU increased linearly from days 30 to 100 postpartum in Holstein
cows and the oocyte quality was greatest at 30 days postpartum. However,
Lopes et al. (2006) determined that in animals of the same breed there
was no effect of days postpartum on the number and quality of oocytes
retrieved, although the days postpartum had a positive influence on the
blastocyst rate.
Aller et al. (2010) investigated, in early postpartum suckled beef cows
with and without FSH pre-stimulation, the influence of the postpartum
period on the number and quality of oocytes recovered by OPU, the overall
efficiency of the OPU/IVEP embryos from days 30 to 80 postpartum and
if repeated OPU negatively affect fertility following a fixed-time artificial
insemination (FTAI) protocol. These authors concluded that FSH-treated
suckled postpartum cows can be a source of oocytes for IVF, and repeated
dominant follicle ablation and OPU applied during postpartum period did
not affect the subsequent fertility following FTAI.
Vieira et al. (2014) evaluated the efficacy of superstimulation with
p-FSH before OPU on IVEP in lactating and non-lactating Holstein donors.
Regardless of treatment, non-lactating cows had a higher blastocyst rate
(41.9% vs. 13.4%) and produced more transferable embryos per OPU
session (3.5 ± 0.5 vs. 1.3 ± 0.3) than lactating cows.

In relation to body condition, there is consensus about malnourished

donors having reduced capacity for oocytes to develop embryos. Effectively,
undernutrition has a negative effect on the developmental competence of
recovered oocytes in vitro, as illustrated by the decreasing percentage of

blastocysts associated with decreasing body condition score of the donor,
and an increasing proportion of good quality oocytes with increasing body
condition score (reviewed by Bols and Stout, 2018).
Ruiz (2010) performs a brief review on some results of oocytes and
embryos obtained by OPU/IVEP in animals in different physiological status
with and without pre-stimulation hormonal.
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6.5.2.3 INDIVIDUAL VARIATIONS
The donor animal is a major source of variation both the management

and genetic point of view. The efficiency of OPU/IVEP techniques has
been impaired by the large variability among donors in their response to
these procedures (Merton et al., 2003; Pontes et al., 2009). Therefore, the
success of IVEP technologies has been associated primarily with physi-
ological characteristics, such as ovarian antral follicle population (AFP)
and oocyte competence to reach the blastocyst stage (Taneja et al., 2000;
Pontes et al., 2011).
The AFP has been related to several substances, including the concentra-
tions of circulating insulin, insulin-like growth factor I, and anti-Müllerian
hormone (AMH) (Batista et al., 2014).
AMH is a dimeric glycoprotein of the inhibitory transforming growth
factor-b (TGF-b) superfamily that is expressed only in the gonads. In
females, granulosa cells from growing secondary follicles produce AMH
during follicle recruitment. It acts as an inhibiting growth factor on the pool
of resting follicles. As shown in mice, humans, and cattle, the concentration
of AMH in plasma reflects the total number of oocytes in the ovary and the
number of follicles, which are involved in preantral and antral follicular
activity (reviewed by Vernunft et al., 2015). Therefore, the strong association
between the follicle population and the AMH concentration could provide a
consistent method for predicting the AFP.
In human medicine, plasma AMH levels have become an important
predictive parameter for the success of assistant reproductive technologies,
which include OPU/IVEP (Dewailly et al., 2014). However, in veterinary

reproductive medicine, this parameter is not used very often. During the
last few years, strong linear regressions between plasma AMH levels and
the number of antral follicles have also been described in different breeds
of cattle (Batista et al., 2014).

From puberty on, the AMH levels of individual heifers stay at a constant
level; through the estrous cycle, the plasma AMH levels show only slight
dynamics with a decrease one week after ovulation. But that decrease in
the AMH level is not big enough, that animals with high AMH levels will
reach the plasma AMH levels of animals with low plasma AMH levels
(Monnieaux et al., 2012). Therefore, AMH can also be considered as an
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independent marker of the ovarian follicle reserve in cattle. Recently,
it was shown that AMH can be used as a predictive marker for in vivo
embryo production in cattle (Monnieaux et al., 2010; Rico et al., 2012).
Guerreiro et al. (2014) evaluated the association between plasma AMH
concentration and IVEP from B. taurus (Holstein) and B. indicus (Nelore)
donors. They found a positive correlation between the plasma AMH and
number of in vitro embryos produced from Holstein and Nelore donors.
The results revealed that females classified as having high AMH presented
a greater number of visible aspirated follicles and a greater number of
recovered COCs. Moreover, donors classified as having high AMH yielded
a greater number of embryos produced per OPU compared with those
classified as having low AMH. Concluding that although the plasma AMH
concentration did not alter the ability of the COC to reach the blastocyst
stage, the AMH concentration in plasma can be an accurate endocrine
marker for the in vitro embryo yield from either B. taurus (Holstein) or
B. indicus (Nelore) donors, and it becomes in a promising tool to enhance
the overall efficiency of OPU/IVEP programs in the field as a selective
criterion for high embryo producing donors.
In opposition, Vernunft et al. (2015) analyzed the plasma AMH levels
in Holstein–Friesian heifers and their results suggest that correlations
between AMH and outcomes of an OPU/IVEP program are too low to use
AMH as a precise predictive parameter for the success of a particular OPU
procedure in cattle. However, AMH can help identify groups of very good
or very poor oocyte donors.
In conclusion, more studies must be conducted to clarify these different
results and to determine the role of AMH levels in OPU/IVEP procedures
in cattle.

6.5.2.4 DONOR BREED
The OPU efficiency did not show a significant variation among cow breeds
as long as B. taurus breeds are concerned (Kruip et al., 1994). If this evalu-
ation is extended to B. indicus breeds and indicus-taurus donor significant
differences were observed.
There are physiological similarities, as well as differences, between
B. indicus and B. taurus breeds. For instance, Nelore cows are similar to
other B. indicus and B. taurus breeds when comparing the average embryo
production by MOET (reviewed by Pontes et al., 2009). However, B. indicus
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breeds tend to have, on average, more follicular waves (Figueiredo et al.,
1997) as well as a greater number of follicles >5 mm per wave compared
to B. taurus breeds. Because there is a greater efficiency of oocyte recovery
from follicles <4 mm in diameter (Seneda et al., 2001), it is another reason
that more oocytes are obtained from B. indicus than from B. taurus donors. It
was also reported that Nelore cows have smaller dominant follicles and CL,
and shorter estrus than B. taurus breeds. Other reproductive characteristics,
such as the LH surge, seem to be specific to Nelore females. However,
the physiological basis for the number of follicles in Nelore cattle has not
been established and despite the physiological importance of these differ-
ences, the high number of oocytes obtained via OPU seems to be a unique
characteristic of Nelore cows (Pontes et al., 2009).
Pontes et al. (2010) reported a large-scale commercial program for
IVEP from dairy B. taurus, B. indicus, and indicus-taurus donors, using
sexed sperm. The number of viable oocytes per OPU session was 12.1 ±
3.9 for Gyr cows, 8.0 ± 2.7 for Holstein, 16.8 ± 5.0 for 1/4 Holstein x 3/4
Gyr, and 24.3 ± 4.7 for 1/2 Holstein–Gyr crossbred females. The mean
number of embryos produced by OPU/IVEP and the pregnancy rates were
3.2 and 40% for Gyr cows, 2.1 and 36% for Holstein, 3.9 and 37% for 1/4
Holstein x 3/4 Gyr, and 5.5 and 37% for 1/2 Holstein–Gyr (reviewed by
Boni, 2012).
Another study from Pontes et al. (2011) developed an OPU/IVEP
program using Nelore cattle donors. They reported data from 656 OPU/
IVEP procedures, performed on 317 Nelore cows, without hormone stimu-
lation or control of ovarian follicular waves. The average number of total
and viable oocytes produced per OPU session was 30.84 ± 0.88 (ranged
between groups from 58.94 ± 2.04 to 10.26 ± 0.57) and 23.35 ± 0.7 (ranged
from 47.06 ± 1.6 to 6.31 ± 0.389), with an average of 8.1 ± 0.3 embryos

(from 15.06 ± 0.86 to 2.42 ± 0.25) and 3.0 ± 0.1 pregnancies on day 30 (from
5.62 ± 0.86 to 0.92 ± 0.13) per OPU/IVEP procedure. Oocyte production
varied widely among donor so that the number of viable oocytes recovered
ranged from 0 to 128. Since donors with numerous viable oocytes produced
many viable embryos and pregnancies, oocyte production was useful for
donor selection. However, there was no significant effect of the number
of OPU sessions per donor on mean numbers of oocytes produced. The
authors confirmed field reports of high oocyte production by some Nelore
donors and demonstrated individual variation in oocyte yield, which was
associated with embryo production and pregnancy rates. Highly contrasting
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results have been reported in Belgian Blue donors with impaired fertility,
which yielded an average of only 3.1 oocytes and 0.5 embryos per puncture
session (Bols et al., 1996).
Despite the great differences in total of oocytes retrieved per OPU
procedure across breeds, outstanding donors can be found in all breeds
and the number of oocytes retrieved per individual donor seems consis-
tent across time. In fact, it was previously shown the occurrence of high
within-cow repeatability in oocyte production over time (Monteiro et al.,
2017). However, contrasting results were shown across genetic groups.
For B. taurus, the number of recovered oocytes seemed fairly constant,
even up to 32 consecutive OPU sessions (Petyim et al., 2003). Conversely,
in B. indicus cattle, decreased numbers of recovered oocytes following
consecutive OPU sessions have been reported (Gimenes et al., 2015); it
appears to be an issue particularly within donors with high numbers of
COCs retrieved at the beginning of the program (Monteiro et al., 2017).
Despite that, donors classified as high COC resulted in increased blastocyst
production per OPU. More importantly, the high repeatability efficiency in
terms of COC retrieved is a remarkable finding that has major implications
to IVEP labs worldwide (reviewed by Watanabe et al., 2017).
In conclusion, breed donor influences the OPU process because different
breeds have various numbers of follicles in the ovary during the follicular
wave cycle. Bos indicus cows tend to have more numerous follicular
waves and a larger number of smaller follicles than B. taurus. This feature
has resulted in very fast OPU/IVEP popularity growth in Brazil, since the
Brazilian herd is around 200 million animals about 80–85% of which are
Nelore breeds. Although in vivo embryo production continues to be widely
used in indicus donors, the use of OPU/IVEP enables the production of
more embryos in the same period (reviewed by Da Silva et al., 2016).

6.5.2.5 DONOR AGE
Age is a commonly discussed factor. The very young and very old donor
ages are generally reported as problematic situations. Prepubertal and aging

donors commonly have poor-quality oocytes. Elderly cows also have fewer
available gametes (Da Silva et al., 2016).
Virtually, all female cattle starting from 2 mo of age can be oocyte
donors by follicular aspiration. The only exception are pregnant animals
after the third or fourth month of pregnancy and animals with severe
ovarian hypoplasia or in the immediate post-partum before ovarian
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activity is restored. Calves of about 2–3 mo can be oocyte donors. But
for an efficient collection without side effects the procedure requires a
laparotomy under general anesthesia. The ovaries are exposed through
the incision and the oocytes are recovered by follicular aspiration (Galli
et al., 2001).
Presicce et al. (1997) designed a study to determine the acquisition
of developmental competence of oocytes using prepubertal heifers as a
model. Oocytes were collected by OPU from calves at 5, 7, 9, and 11 mo
of age that had or had not received gonadotropin stimulation. Numbers of
oocytes recovered from unstimulated heifers decreased with age. Embryo
development to morula and blastocyst stages were poorer for oocytes
collected from unstimulated calves at 5–9 mo of age than for those from the
age-matched but gonadotropin-stimulated groups. In calves 11 mo of age,
embryo development to morula and blastocyst stages was similar with and
without gonadotropin stimulation and was comparable to that of adult cow
oocytes. The authors concluded that the acquisition of oocyte competence
for normal embryo development in prepubertal calves is influenced by
animal age and hormonal treatment.
The possibility of producing embryos from oocytes repeatedly collected
by OPU from unstimulated calves before and after puberty was compared
in the same animals, determining that oocytes can be collected by repeated
OPU in calves 7–10 mo old without affecting their growth or the onset of
puberty. The correlation observed for the number of follicles punctured
before and after puberty suggests that this parameter is determined before
puberty (Majerus et al., 1999).
The major problem with prepubertal donors is the impaired in vitro
developmental capacity of the recovered oocytes (Taneja et al., 2000),
resulting in a low overall efficiency of the procedure.

Rizos et al. (2005) reported that a significantly higher number of total

oocytes (4.7 vs. 2.8) and grade 1-2 oocytes recovered/animal from heifers
than from cows (3.0 vs. 1.8); while there was no significant difference in
the percentage of oocytes cleaving after fertilization, or in the percentage

reaching the blastocyst stage between heifers and cows.
Jin et al. (2016) investigated the effect of age (3-6 and 7-9 years) and
number of parities (2-3 and 4-7) on the potential of the Korean native
cow (Hanwoo breed) as oocyte donor in OPU and subsequent IVEP. With
advancement in age and parity of animals, there was an increase in number
of ovarian follicles. The total number of recovered COCs was increased
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in old cows with increased number of parities. The authors concluded
that repeated OPU of cows resulted in significant decrease in the in vitro
production of embryos in young compared with old cows.
6.5.2.6 HORMONAL STIMULATION
Several investigators have used gonadotropin stimulation in OPU protocols

ranging from a full superovulatory dose to shorter treatments for 2–3 days
with one or two injections per day in presence of a progesterone releasing
device or a CL. The positive effect of the gonadotropins can be attributed
to the increase in size of small follicles and to the acquisition of a higher
developmental competence of the oocytes as it occurs with in vivo matured
oocytes (Merton et al., 2003).
In prepubertal calves, gonadotropin stimulation is required to obtain an
acceptable level of developmental competence (Taneja et al., 2000; Galli et
al., 2001). However, use of gonadotropin stimulation does not seem to be
effective in B. indicus donors; it is not used in large scale programs (Pontes
et al., 2009; 2010).
Many attempts of hormonal stimulation have been evaluated in order
to improve follicle population in animals submitted to OPU. Now, we are
going to refer the most important studies in the last years.
Pieterse et al. (1988) treated cows with 1000–3000 IU of PMSG in the
presence of an active mid-cycle CL 2 days before OPU. The mean number
of aspirated follicles significantly increased in stimulated compared to
non-stimulated donors and the treatment decreased the RR value.
Bungartz et al. (1995) compared the OPU efficiency, twice weekly
(3–4 days intervals), on Holstein–Friesian lactating cows, which were or

were not stimulated 4-day prior to OPU aspiration with a single injection
of 100 mg of porcine FSH (p-FSH). The number of aspirated follicles
was higher in the treated group (10.6 ± 0.7 vs. 8.9 ± 0.5); however, the
number of collected oocytes, RR, percentage of viable oocytes, cleavage,

and morula/blastocyst rates did not differ between treated and non-treated
groups. The authors concluded that repeated aspiration of viable COC at
short intervals was possible and additional FSH treatment did not increase
oocyte yields.
Goodhand et al. (1999) studied in Simmental heifers the effects of
frequency of follicular aspiration and treatment of donor cattle with FSH
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on in vivo oocyte recovery and in vitro embryo production. The oocyte
donors were aspirated once a week, twice a week, or once a week following
treatment with FSH (total dose 9.0 mg ovine-FSH, o-FSH) for 3 days prior
to aspiration. Significantly more oocytes per heifer per week recovered
from animals treated with FSH were graded Class 1. FSH treatment of
bovine oocyte donors aspirated once a week enabled a similar number of
transferable embryos to be produced per donor week as aspiration twice
a week without FSH treatment. These two treatments produced twice as
many transferable embryos per donor week as aspiration once a week
without FSH treatment.
One year later, the same authors (Goodhand et al., 2000) studied in
vivo oocyte recovery (once weekly) and IVEP from bovine oocyte donors
treated with progestagen plus estradiol 17b or FSH. Treatment with steroid
had no significant effect on any follicular, oocyte or embryo production
variate other than to reduce the number and the diameter of large follicles
>10 mm present at aspiration. FSH increased numbers of medium (6–10
mm) and large follicles and there was a corresponding decrease in the
number of small follicles (2–5 mm). The total number of follicles at
aspiration increased from 17.7 ± 1.60 for animals not treated with FSH
to 23.6 ± 1.97 following multiple dose treatment with FSH. Significantly,
more follicles were aspirated following FSH treatment (no FSH 9.7 ± 1.09,
single dose FSH 13.6 ± 1.30, multiple dose FSH 17.3 ± 1.52) and numbers
of oocytes recovered per cow per week increased, but the differences were
not significant. Significantly, more good oocytes (Grade 1) were recovered
from animals treated with FSH. There was no overall significant effect
of FSH on embryo production rate or the total number of transferable
embryos produced but the number of transferable embryos was highest
following administration of multiple doses of FSH.

De Roover et al. (2005) applied an ovarian superstimulation protocol

prior to OPU, tailored to the individual donor response, to evaluate its
advantages and disadvantages in terms of follicle numbers and diameters,
the numbers of retrieved oocytes and day 7 cultured blastocysts. 10 adult

non-lactating Holstein cows were superstimulated with p-FSH and subjected
to OPU-IVF six times at 2-week intervals. The total dose of p-FSH prior to
the first OPU session was 300 mg/animal (total p-FSH dose was unchanged,
increased or reduced (±50 mg), according to the percentage of follicles
>11 mm, present in the previous session of that particular donor. The mean
number of punctured follicles per session was 11.9 ± 7.7, with a mean of
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5.6 ± 4.1 COCs (RR = 47%). Finally, all COCs were subjected to IVEP,
which resulted in a mean of 2.0 ± 2.3 blastocysts on 7 D. The changes in
p-FSH dose influenced the sizes but not the numbers of follicles, the latter
parameter was influenced by the individual donor and OPU session.
Chaubal et al. (2006) evaluated the effects of once vs. twice-weekly
OPU, dominant follicle removal (DFR) and FSH stimulation (once weekly
200 mg, divided in 80 mg i.m. and 120 mg s.c.) prior OPU on five groups
of 3 cows each (Angus-cross cows); each group was allotted to a treatment
protocol, which was repeated every week for 10 consecutive weeks.
Treatment with FSH, followed by twice-weekly OPU, failed to show any
synergistic effect of FSH and increased aspiration frequency. When FSH
was given 36 h after DFR, followed by OPU 48 h later, more follicles,
oocytes and embryos were obtained during each session, but not on a
weekly basis. Pooled results over 10 weeks showed an overall improved
performance for the treatment groups with twice-weekly OPU sessions, due
to the doubled number of OPU sessions performed. However, the protocol
that consisted of DFR, FSH treatment and a subsequent single OPU per
week was considered the most productive and cost-effective (reviewed by
Boni, 2012).
Some authors have studied the effect during ovarian stimulation of
the presence or absence of a progesterone-releasing intravaginal device
(CIDR), and i.v. treatment with LH 6 h prior to OPU (yes vs. no), on
oocyte competence, judged by blastocyst development rates following IVF.
Presence of CIDR during superstimulation had no effect on the follicular
response. Administration of LH 6 h prior to OPU increased the oocytes
of higher morphological grades, and in the absence of a CIDR, improved
blastocyst development rate, resulted in 2.89 ± 0.4 blastocysts per cow per
OPU session (1.3–1.5 better than the rest of experimental groups) (Chaubal
et al., 2007).
De Roover et al. (2008) published a retrospective study about the

effects of OPU frequency and FSH stimulation of beef cattle (Belgium
Blue) IVEP. Data from 7 years of work were analyzed comparing number
of follicles, COCs and IVP embryos obtained from 1,396 non-stimulated

OPU sessions on 81 donor animals (2-weekly OPU scheme) with 640
sessions following FSH-LH superstimulation, on 112 donors (OPU once
every 2 weeks). The stimulation protocol started with the insertion of an
ear implant (3 mg norgestomet) 8 days before puncture. The dominant
follicle was ablated by OPU on day 6. On day 3 and 2, cows were injected
with FSH twice daily (total dose: 160 mg FSH and 40 mg LH) per donor
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per stimulation cycle and animals were punctured 48 h after the last FSH
injection (day 0). Progesterone implants were removed day +1. Results
demonstrated that, expressed per session, FSH stimulation prior to OPU
increases production efficiency with significantly more follicles punctured
and oocytes retrieved. However, when overall results during comparable
2-week periods are considered (4 non-stimulated sessions vs. 1 stimulated),
more follicles are punctured and more oocytes are retrieved using the
non-stimulated protocol. The absence of significant differences between
these two regimens in the number of in vitro produced embryos within the
2-week period suggests a positive effect on in vitro oocyte developmental
competence in the treated animals.
Sendag et al. (2008) compared the ovarian response, oocyte yields
per animal, and the morphological quality of oocytes collected by OPU
from Holstein cows treated either with FSH (500 IU) or eCG (3000 IU).
Recovered oocytes were graded morphologically based on the cumulus
investment. Average follicle number in ovaries was higher in FSH group
than eCG group. Oocyte yields per animal did not differ between FSH and
eCG groups but the proportion of oocytes Grade 1 was higher in the FSH
group in the than eCG group. These results suggest that ovarian response,
follicle number in ovaries, and oocyte quality are affected by the type of
gonadotropin, and FSH is better alternative than eCG for OPU treatment.
Aller et al. (2010) studied, in early postpartum suckled beef cows
(Angus) with and without FSH pre-stimulation, the influence of the post-
partum period on the number and quality of oocytes recovered by OPU,
the overall efficiency of OPU/IVP embryos (days 30 to 80 postpartum)
and if repeated OPU negatively affect fertility following a FTAI protocol.
Treatments included DFR, FSH treatment (total doses 9 mg s.c. once a day
over 2 days at equal doses) and OPU procedure 5 days after DFR. In both

groups, OPU was repeated four times (days 35, 49, 63, and 77 postpartum).
The numbers of follicles visible and aspirated in FSH-treated cows were
greater than in non-treated cows (10.6 ± 0.6 and 8.4 ± 0.4 vs. 8.0 ± 0.5
and 4.6 ± 0.3). Following FSH treatment, the number of recovered oocytes
per cow per OPU session and percentage of viable oocytes were greater
in the treated than in non-treated animals (3.0 ± 0.1 and 39.5% vs. 1.5 ±
0.1 and 30.0%). The cleavage, embryo development and pregnancy rates
after FTAI were not different among groups. The authors concluded that
FSH-treated suckled postpartum cows can be a source of oocytes for IVF
and repeated DFR/OPU applied during postpartum period did not affect the
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subsequent fertility following FTAI.
Vieira et al. (2014) evaluated the efficacy of superstimulation with p-FSH
before OPU on IVEP in lactating and non-lactating Holstein donors. On a
random day of the estrous cycle (day 0), all cows received an intravaginal
progesterone device and estradiol benzoate (EB) (2.0 mg, i.m.). Cows in
the p-FSH group received a total dosage of 200 mg of p-FSH on days 4
and 5 (in four decreasing doses 12 h apart). On day 7, the progesterone
device was removed, and OPU was conducted in both groups (40 h after the
last p-FSH injection in the p-FSH treated group). There was no difference
between groups in the numbers of follicles that were aspirated per OPU
session; however, p-FSH-treated cows had a higher percentage of medium-
sized follicles (6–10 mm) at the time of the OPU (55.1%) than control
cows (20.8%). Although RR was lower (60.0% vs. 69.8%), p-FSH-treated
cows had a higher blastocyst production rate (34.5% vs. 19.8%) and more
transferable embryos per OPU session were produced in the p-FSH group
(3.0 ± 0.5 vs. 1.8 ± 0.4).
Two years later, this same group of authors (Vieira et al., 2016) evalu-
ated the efficacy of a single injection of p-FSH (i.m.) in hyaluronan (HA)
prior to OPU in Holstein cattle. Plasma FSH profiles, IVEP after OPU, and
establishment of pregnancy with IVP embryos were compared in untreated
Holstein oocyte donors and those superstimulated with multiple injections
or a single injection of p-FSH in HA (200 or 300 mg p-FSH in 5 or 7.5 ml,
respectively of a 0.5% HA). A greater proportion of medium-sized (6–10
mm) follicles were observed in cows receiving p-FSH, regardless of the
treatment group. Also, numbers of follicles, COCs retrieved and matured
cleavage rates and blastocysts produced per OPU session were greater in
cows receiving p-FSH, regardless of the treatment group. Cows in 200 mg
FSH group had a greater RR, number of COCs cultured, and blastocysts

produced per OPU session than cows in the 300 mg FSH group. Similar
pregnancy rates were observed 50–60 days after transferring IVP embryos
from donors in the different treatment groups. They concluded that a
single injection of p-FSH combined in 0.5% HA resulted in similar plasma

FSH profiles as twice-daily p-FSH treatments. Treatment of non-lactating
donors with p-FSH, with or without HA, resulted in increased IVEP over
untreated controls. A single dose of 200 mg of p-FSH in 0.5% HA resulted
in greater IVEP than 300 mg p-FSH in HA and finally, pregnancy rates
with IVP embryos were similar, regardless donor treatment.
Some researchers have employed hormonal treatments to improve
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the ovarian follicular wave synchronization prior to OPU. In this way,
Barboza da Silva et al. (2017) evaluated the effects of FSH treatment (200
mg p-FSH) on ovarian follicle stimulation and in vitro oocyte competence
for IVEP in non-lactating Holstein cows with synchronized follicular
wave emergence. On random days of the estrous cycle (day 0), received
a progesterone (P4)-releasing intravaginal device and 2 mg of EB, and on
day 3, 0.530 mg PGF2α. FSH was split in 4 or 6 administrations (day 4
or 3, respectively). On day 7 (36 h of “coasting” period for FSH-treated
groups), the P4 devices were removed and cows were subjected to OPU.
Although FSH treatment did not increase the total number of follicles,
FSH4 and FSH6 hormonal stimulation regimens increased the number
of medium follicles and reduced the number of small follicles. Also,
FSH treatment did not increase the number of viable oocytes, RR and
the number of IVP blastocyst. The authors concluding that FSH stimula-
tion protocol proposed is effective to stimulate the growth of small antral
follicle (6–10 mm) population prior to OPU, but it was ineffective to
improve in vitro oocyte competence for IVEP in non-lactating Holstein
cows with synchronized follicular wave emergence.
Cavalieri et al. (2017) also evaluated the effects of the synchronization
of ovarian follicular wave emergence on the efficiency of OPU/IVEP in
Nelore (B. indicus) cows. However, they concluded that synchronization
of the follicular wave prior to OPU showed positive effects on IVEP as
well as on pregnancy rates. Animals in the synchronization group received
a protocol-based progesterone implant, EB and PGF2α on a random day
of the estrous cycle (day 0) and the OPU was performed on day 5. After
IVEP, embryos were transferred to recipients synchronized at a fixed
time. An evaluation of the parameters for each OPU session revealed that
donors that received the synchronization protocol pre-OPU showed a

greater number of embryos (5.9 ± 0.5 vs. 4.5 ± 0.4), higher rate of embryo
production (45.8% vs. 38.5%) and higher mean number of conceptions per
group (2.2 ± 0.2 vs. 1.6 ± 0.2) in relation to the group that did not receive
hormonal treatment.
Recently, some authors in Japan have evaluated the effect of EB (1 mg,
one single injection) at luteal phase prior to OPU during IVP of transfer-
able embryos in Japanese Black cattle (Hidaka et al., 2018). The number
and proportion of medium-sized follicles (4–6 mm) increased gradually and
achieved a peak 72–96 h after EB injection. The OPU was performed 88
h after EB treatment. The stimulation with EB significantly increased the
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number of follicles aspirated, and good quality COCs. Furthermore, the
percentage of transferable embryos was significantly greater than in control
group. But nevertheless, we must remember that estradiol (EB) is forbidden
in EU countries and in future dates it will be in some countries of South
America, like Chile or Argentina.
6.5.2.7 CLIMATE AND SEASON
The influence of temperature and climate during the bovine follicle forma-
tion and development may also interfere with oocyte quality and embryonic
development. Heat stress suppresses follicular dominance, causing follicle
growth-related changes (Qi et al., 2013). Zeron et al. (2001) reported that
the number of follicles 3–8 mm in diameter per ovary was higher in winter
(19.6) compared with summer (12.0) and 7.5 oocytes per ovary were found
in winter and 5.0 oocytes per ovary in summer after aspiration of follicles.
Bos indicus cattle have shown better reproductive performance than
B. taurus in tropical and subtropical regions. This adaptation may involve
different mechanisms. A severe decrease in the quality of Holstein cow
oocytes was observed in the warmer season compared to the cold season,
whereas no differences were detected in the oocytes obtained from Brahman
cows (B. indicus) in different seasons (Rocha et al., 1998). On the other
hand, lymphocytes of Brahman and Senepol cows were less susceptible to
apoptosis induced by the heat, suggesting a mechanism of protection of cells
in B. indicus animals (Paula-Lopes et al., 2003). Some of these mechanisms
are shock proteins thermal type chaperones (HSP), which promote cellular
protection against damage by heat, avoiding the denaturation of proteins and
the blocking of apoptosis. The transcription of these HSPs increases during

thermal shock, which may be an indicator of stress in bovine embryos

(reviewed by De Ondiz and Ruiz, 2011).
Camargo et al. (2007) analyzed and quantified the relative expres-
sion of the protein Hsp 70.1 in immature oocytes, obtained by OPU, of

Holstein cows and Gyr by real-time PCR after reverse transcription. The
rate of embryonic division was higher for Gyr cows than in Holstein cows
and blastocyst production was 19.6% compared to 10.8%, respectively,
although the pregnancy rates were not statistically different after the
transfer to the receptors. The immature Holstein oocytes had a higher
relative expression level of Hsp 70.1 than the oocytes obtained from Gyr
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cows. In conclusion, oocytes obtained from Gyr cows in a tropical region
were less susceptible to heat stress and more favorable to development
after IVF, than Holstein oocytes.
6.6 OTHER USES OF OPU IN CATTLE
OPU can be used as a tool for interfering with follicle dynamics in order to
advance our knowledge in its regulatory mechanisms and for technology or
therapeutic purposes. Also, OPU has been employed as a source of oocytes
for research purposes and as an implement in reproductive biotechnology
for the recovery and conservation of endangered bovine breeds; moreover,
OPU is an extraordinary source of oocytes for cloning and transgenesis.
The continuous application of OPU twice-weekly doubles the frequency
of follicular waves, which becomes uncoupled from the estrous cycle because
of inhibition of ovulation. In addition, the absence of a CL avoids interference
of the progesterone on follicle growth. This particular condition together with
the removal of each follicle larger than 2 mm makes easier to study either the
growth or the replacement of follicles (Boni, 2012).
Viana et al. (2010) evaluated ovarian follicular dynamics during intervals
between successive OPU and determined its effects on the number and
quality of recovered COCs in Gyr cows (B. indicus), finding that, repeated
follicle aspirations altered ovarian follicular dynamics, that follicular
dominance could be established in cows undergoing twice-a-week OPU;
and that the presence of a dominant follicle not affect COC quality, except
when a codominant follicle was present.
OPU can be used to eliminate the deleterious effect of the presence
of a dominant follicle during superovulation in cows, by puncturing the

dominant follicle 38–46 h prior to superovulatory treatment (Merton et al.,

2003). The OPU application efficiently resets the >2 mm diameter follicular
population to zero which in effect guarantees that the new population will
be uniformly renewed with less atresia (Boni, 2012).

Torres-Júnior et al. (2008) used OPU to find that long-term exposure
of Gyr cows (B. indicus) to heat-stress had a delayed deleterious effect on
ovarian follicular dynamics and oocyte competence. Following a 28 days’
experimental period of heat stress, cows had longer periods of noncyclic
activity, as well as shorter estrous cycles, the diameter of the dominant
and double-dominant follicles as well as the number of follicles >9 mm in
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diameter, characterized as follicular codominance, significantly increased.
OPU can have its own therapeutic effect on infertile donors, especially
those affected by ovarian cysts. Virtually, all empty donors come on cycle
within 2 weeks from the last oocyte collection and can be inseminated
successfully (Galli et al., 2001).
Lievaart et al. (2006) treated follicular cyst problems in cows by single
transvaginal-guided needle aspiration. After aspiration, 82.1% of the
cows showed estrous behavior at 13.3 ± 6.0 days, and the animals were
inseminated during the first heat after cyst aspiration with a pregnancy
rate of 64.2%. They concluded that single transvaginal-guided needle
aspiration of ovarian follicular cysts is an easy and good method for the
treatment of follicular cysts; moreover, it is a safe and good alternative
method for the manual, active rupturing of cysts during rectal palpation.
OPU has been used as a source of oocytes for studies of IVF (Ruiz et al.,
2009; 2013a) or IVEP with sex sorted semen (Pontes et al., 2010; Presicce et
al., 2011), in vitro embryo production after IVF with frozen-thawed, sex-sorted,
re-frozen-thawed bull sperm (Underwood et al., 2010) or using sexed sperm
from previously frozen doses (reverse-sorted semen) (Morotti et al., 2014).
Some researchers have employed the OPU technique as a tool together
another reproductive biotechnology for the recovery and conservation of
endangered bovine breeds (Ruiz et al., 2013b).
Finally, special modifications of OPU have been used to collect ovarian
tissue for primary follicle isolation (Aerts et al., 2005).
6.7 DONOR HEALTH: OPU SEQUELAE
During ultrasound-guided oocyte collection, cattle undergo repeated restraint,

transrectal palpation, introduction of an intravaginal device, epidural anesthesia

and repeated ovarian punctures. Among these manipulations, transrectal

palpation and introduction of an intravaginal device, commonly practiced by
veterinarians and inseminators, have been shown to induce moderate stress.
Epidural anesthesia is a less common practice. However, even repeated associ-

ated lesions seem minor and occur in only a few animals. The most question-
able aspect of OPU is the multiple transvaginal and transovarian punctures,
which constitute the more invasive and the most specific part of the OPU.
The animals subjected to follicular puncture must be evaluated periodi-
cally to monitor for the likely procedure-related consequences. Perforation
of the vaginal fornix with or without transient irritation of the vagina and
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cervix is repeatedly one such consequence and the vaginal drilling points
can be identified up to 48–72 h post-puncture (reviewed by Da Silva et
al., 2016). Bruising in the perivaginal region is also seem, but this conse-
quence seems not to cause major damage to the donor (Viana et al., 2003).
Sequelae noted in the ovaries can indicate significant changes in consis-
tency and or mobility. Ovarian perforation can cause the appearance of
adhesions and fibrosis, particularly in cows that are subjected to multiple
consecutive puncture sessions, through a prolonged period. It is important
to consider the impact of technical variables and the operator’ ability to
prevent the occurrence of such lesions (reviewed by Da Silva et al., 2016).
Kruip et al. (1994) conducted one experience to examine the efficacy
of transvaginal ultrasound-guided puncturing of ovarian follicles for
collecting immature oocytes in cattle. They checked daily the health of
the cows punctured. The results did not differ between the months of the
experiments, indicating that the transvaginal puncturing method can be
used successfully over a 5 mo period. Moreover, no detrimental effects
were observed after clinical and postmortem examinations, nor did breed,
age or reproductive status appear to affect the results.
Viana et al. (2003) evaluated lesions of the genital tract in animals used
in different experiments involving OPU technique. The cows evaluated
underwent 9–42 puncture sessions with a low prevalence of inflammatory
changes in the vagina mucosa. Histopathologic evaluation revealed scar
tissue, inflammatory cell infiltration, and presence of luteal tissue dispersed
within the ovarian stroma.
Chastant-Maillard et al. (2003) evaluated the impact of repeated follicular
puncture used in OPU technique on the welfare of cows. The evaluation
relies on the physiological measurement of stress, milk production criteria,
immune status, and the histological examination of ovaries. Although the

blood cortisol concentrations increased after each session, concentrations

were the same in both the control and the punctured groups. The trans-
vaginal puncture did not affect milk production, or blood and milk somatic
cell counts. Histological examination of the ovaries 4 days after puncture

revealed blood-filled follicles and hemorrhagic foci in ovarian stroma, but
the 30-day examination after the last puncture session demonstrated very
limited, if any, fibrosis. They concluded that repeated transvaginal follicular
puncture on its own did not impact adversely on the welfare of cows.
Finally, Peytim et al. (2007) studied the effects of OPU technique on
animal well-being during 4 months of twice-weekly OPU. They measured
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heart rates and cortisol, vasopressin, and prostaglandin metabolite in blood,
as well as reactions to each sub-procedure of OPU (‘restraint’, ‘epidural’,
‘device in’ and ‘puncture’); changes in routine behavior, estrous behavior,
body temperature, or other clinical traits were recorded. Although there
was an insignificant increase in heart rate and cortisol throughout the OPU
procedure, both parameters declined to pre-OPU levels 10 min after comple-
tion of the procedure. No significant changes were seen in vasopressin or
PG-metabolite. Behaviorally, the heifers showed the strongest response
to epidural anesthesia, with a tendency for more intense response during
the late 4-month sessions. There were no changes in the routine or estrous
behavior throughout the experiment and no signs of clinical disorders.
No major pathological changes were macroscopically seen in the ovaries
and tails subsequent to OPU during 4 mo. They concluded that the heifers
showed a response to OPU, mostly to administration of epidural anesthesia;
however, this experience has been shown that epidural anesthesia can be
administered in a way causing less discomfort (Peytim et al., 2007).
Follicular aspiration is a technique with pros and cons. The risk of
sequelae must be considered. The procedure must be performed carefully
to minimize the possible damage that allows the results to outweigh the
expected results (Da Silva et al., 2016).
6.8 OPU IN BUFFALOES
Some countries are very interested in the reproduction biotechnologies in

buffaloes as Italy, Argentina, China, India, etc. (Galli et al., 2001; Liang
et al., 2008; Manjunatha et al., 2008; Galli et al., 2014; Konrad et al.,
2017). In the buffalo, OPU has great potential because MOET programs

have given poor results compared with those in cattle (Carvalho et al.,
2002), and it has never made an impact on buffalo breeding programs,
both because of the limited number of embryos that can be recovered and
also because of the low survival after cryopreservation (reviewed by Galli

et al., 2014). Because of these limits, the OPU technology has always been
of great interest also in buffalo breeding.
The procedure is performed exactly in the same way as in cows. Oocyte
recovery, embryo production, and offspring obtained have been described
in several publications (Galli et al., 2001; Neglia et al., 2011; Konrad et
al., 2017) but only about 10–15% of the oocytes recovered develop to
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transferable embryos (Galli et al., 2014).
In general, the ovaries of buffalo cows and heifers are small; in addition,
the follicles tend to be fewer and of small diameter. Therefore, few follicles
are available for OPU and the follicular population is influenced by the
seasonality reported in the buffalo (Neglia et al., 2011; Di Francesco et
al., 2012).
Gonadotrophin stimulation might be beneficial (Presicce et al., 2002;
Gimenes et al., 2015) for increasing the small size and paucity of follicles
found especially in anestrous donors.
Because of the great value of the female offspring in buffalo herds,
the combination of OPU with sexed semen (Liang et al., 2008) and cryo-
preservation offer the opportunity to accelerate the genetic gain in the
buffalo industry (reviewed by Galli et al., 2014).
6.9 OPU/IVEP IN THE FUTURE
The bovine genome is being sequenced and bovine genes for traits of
economic interest becoming totally available in few years. OPU/IVEP will
prove invaluable in rapidly multiplying rare genes or Quantitative Trait
Loci (QTL) of high value. This will require a cost effective and efficient
methods for embryo biopsy and genotyping that allow Marker Assisted
Selection or Gene Assisted Selection (MAS/GAS) at the embryo level
(Bredbacka, 2001). OPU/IVEP is being used for breeding of bulls with the
desired genes/QTL that code for animal productivity traits such as health
and fertility and more importantly for cow herd population in the case of
genes for milk composition traits. Juvenile OPU/IVEP will further accel-
erate gene dissemination as will have sexed semen and embryo cloning.
The MAS/GAS schemes, in combination with sib testing, may, partially,
replace conventional progeny testing schemes and provide opportunities

for customizing animals to different markets. MAS/GAS is already applied
at several places in the world, and it can be applied to either reduce the
size of the progeny testing scheme and maintain the same level of genetic
gain or increase genetic gain at the same level of progeny testing (van
Wagtendonk-de Leeuw, 2006).
It is recognized that OPU, and particularly IVEP, provide the basis for
more advanced technologies such as cloning and transgenesis (Ding et al.,
2008), which are believed to have limited scope due to low efficiencies
and animal welfare and public perception issues. This limited scope is
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likely to remain, until the first convincing examples of positive uses are
presented, possibly first from areas outside the farming industry such as
the medical or pharmaceutical industry (reviewed by van Wagtendonk-de
Leeuw, 2006).
Also, Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) such as MOET, OPU/
IVEP, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), cloning by somatic cell
nuclear transfer (SCNT) and transgenesis involve several steps that may
exert environmental stress on gametes and early embryos. Therefore, there
is growing interest in the putative link between these techniques and epigen-
etic modifications that promote changes in gene expression profiles and
might result in developmental disorders. Researchers have been targeting a
better understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms and the opportunity of
manipulating events, in order to improve the efficiency of ARTs. The current
knowledge about epigenetic influence on gametes, embryos and fetus
allowed us to view the reproductive process from a new angle. Although
the exact time and concentration of some gene products and its specific
sites in the genome are already clarify, we are far from fully understanding
epigenetic control of reproduction (reviewed by Franco et al., 2016).
6.10 CONCLUDING REMARKS
OPU and IVEP can both be considered mature technologies by now.

Obtaining oocytes through in vivo follicular aspiration is only the first step
of in vitro embryo production. Once the oocytes are retrieved, their matura-
tion, fertilization, and embryo development occur in specific IVEP labora-
tories. The main challenges for the further spread of OPU include the high
equipment and the need for technical training. OPU is a livestock service
tool. If used properly, it provides satisfactory results that correspond the
expectations of the investment. However, if misused, it can cause damage

in the donors. It is necessary for a careful analysis of each OPU/IVEP
proposal for breeders, farmers and veterinarians as well to achieve the best
results using this biotechnology. Although there will be a shift in applica-

tion of OPU/IVEP over the next years from increasing selection intensity to
rapid and smart gene dissemination, this technology has and will continue
to make a significant contribution to the cattle industry.
KEYWORDS
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•• Aspiration of bovine ovarian follicles
•• OPU equipment and procedure
•• Factors influencing OPU
•• OPU and in vitro embryo production
•• OPU worldwide situation
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SECTION II
Equine


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CHAPTER 7
Clinical Endocrinology of
Pregnant Mares
KATY SATUÉ* and MARÍA MARCILLA
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Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary,
University CEU-Cardenal Herrera, Valencia, Alfara del Patriarca,
Tirant lo Blanc, 46115 Valencia, Spain
*
ABSTRACT
The ability to produce a viable foal is critical to the broodmare. The

interaction and coordination between the ovary, the placenta, and the
fetus guarantee the hormonal secretion necessary to achieve a successful
pregnancy. Maternal–fetal interaction is mediated by the fetoplacental unit,
the necessary interface for the production and secretion of these steroid
hormones. Therefore, both the mare and the fetus adapt to pregnancy through
modifications in the maternal endocrine metabolism mediated by feedback
mechanisms of fetal origin. In equine clinical practice, the evaluation
of hormonal profiles during pregnancy is one of the main determinants
of fetal and/or placental involvement. Consequently, measurements of
progestogens, estrogens, and relaxin, among others, are useful to monitor
the health status of the placenta and fetal viability. Since placental and/
or compromised pathologies or death lead to alterations in the profiles of
these hormones, hormonal diagnosis allows the timing and detection of
early pathological conditions to establish the appropriate treatment for the
maintenance of pregnancy and to reduce the loss of foals. This chapter
reviews normal and abnormal hormonal patterns and reviews the available
scientific evidence on the possible clinical benefits of the most widely used
treatments to improve the pregnancy outcome in the mare.

7.1 INTRODUCTION
Equine pregnancy implies considerable endocrine changes, which can be

explained in part by the development of embryonic vesicle, primary and

secondary corpus luteums (CLs), endometrial cups, and fetoplacental unit
(FPU) development. Both the pregnant mare and the fetus adapt to this
development with unique mechanisms, including alterations in maternal
endocrine metabolism and hormonal feedback. Since that the ability to
produce a viable foal is critical to the broodmare, maintenance of pregnancy
entails almost a year of physiological effort on the part of the gravid mare.
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In this chapter, normal and abnormal endocrine patterns in pregnant are
reviewed. Hormonal diagnosis related with placentitis, abortions, recurrent
pregnancy loss, and preterm births has also been considered.
7.2 ENDOCRINOLOGY OF PREGNANT MARE
7.2.1 AT THE TIME OF OVULATION
The estral cycle in the mare is under the endocrinological control of the
hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis. Also, noteworthy is the influ-
ence of photoperiod and other factors, such as nutrition and temperature to
a lesser extent. In fact, the mare is defined as a seasonal polyester female of
long day or positive phototropic, in which the reproductive activity is regu-
lated directly by the photoperiod. The pineal gland is the organ in charge of
controlling the activity of the HPG axis, through the synthesis and secretion of
melatonin. This hormone is produced during the hours of darkness, exerting
an inhibitory effect on the HPG axis, so that as the photoperiod increases, the
suppression ceases and allows the hypothalamic synthesis of gonadotropin-
releasing hormone (GnRH) and, consequently, follicle-stimulating hormone
(FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in the pituitary gland (Davies Morel,
2008). FSH acts at the level of the granulose cells of the preovulatory follicle
favoring growth, follicular maturation, and estrogen synthesis. On the other
hand, LH acts on theca cells, participating in oocyte maturation, ovulation as
well as the establishment, development, and maintenance of the CL and in
the synthesis of progesterone (P4). In turn, both steroid hormones (estrogen
and P4) have a feedback mechanism on hypothalamic activity, regulating
GnRH synthesis (Ginther, 1992; Aurich, 2011).

Clinical Endocrinology of Pregnant Mares 189
The follicular waves that occur during the estrous cycle are temporarily
associated with the maximum concentration of FSH, with levels decreasing
when the largest follicle reaches 13 mm in diameter, giving way to the
mechanism of follicular selection or deviation. LH reaches its maximum

concentration the day after ovulation, being essential for the synthesis of
estradiol-17β (E2) and ovulation. Thus, the rupture of the preovulatory
follicle causes the passage of the oocyte together with the corona radiata,
or crown of cells to the oviduct and the formation of CL occurs. During
the reproductive season, the estral cycle in the mare lasts 22 days, of
which 5–7 days constitute the estrus phase. Luteolysis begins on the 15th
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postovulation day due to endometrial secretion of prostaglandin (PG)F2α.
In addition to PG, other factors such as oxytocin and cyclooxygenase 2
(COX2) are related to the induction of luteolysis, since its endometrial
expression increases markedly during this period (Aurich, 2011; Aurich
and Budik, 2015).
After ovulation, the luteal tissue from the granulose cells is responsible
for the synthesis of P4. The concentrations of this hormone increase
progressively during right-handedness, reaching maximum values 5–6
days after ovulation (10 ng/mL). If the oocyte has not been fertilized, P4
drops drastically to basal levels after the CL lysis (<1 ng/mL). However, if
the mare becomes pregnant, the production is maintained and this hormone
will be in charge of the maintenance of the gestation during the first 50–70
days (Holtan et al., 1979; Davies Morel, 2008; Aurich, 2011).
The endocrinological study of gestation in the mare requires differen-
tiating two fundamental periods: early gestation (from fertilization to the
150th day of gestation) and late gestation (from the 150th day to term)
(Davies Morel, 2008). In each of these periods, events take place that
deserve special mention, both for their relevance in the term of a successful
gestation and for the particularities linked to the equine species.
7.2.2 MAINTENANCE OF GESTATION AND EMBRYO

IMPLANTATION
The nutritional support of the embryo before placentation derives entirely

from the histotrophic secretions of the luminal epithelium and endome-
trial glands, the production of which depends mainly on the action of
P4. In fact, its main function is to prepare the endometrium to house the

embryo, finding specific steroid receptors up to 20 days postovulation.

The activity of these receptors is related to the production of histotrophic
and growth factors, which stimulate differentiation and development of
maternal–fetal tissues at the beginning of pregnancy (Wilsher et al., 2011;

Aurich and Budik, 2015; Kalpokas et al., 2018). Likewise, the presence of
this hormone is essential for the mobility and fixation of the conceptus at
the base of one of the uterine horns and its orientation within the uterus.
Specific receptors have also been found in the equine trophoblast itself
(Rambags et al., 2008).
In experimental animals, the role of P4 in the oviduct has been demon-
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strated, acting on the transport mechanisms, as well as on the volume and
composition of the oviductal fluid (Akison et al., 2014). In the mare, high
concentrations of P4 have been identified in the oviductal tissue and fluid
from the ipsilateral horn to ovulation. Although it is not known whether
its origin is in systemic circulation, follicular fluid or in the synthesis itself
in the oviduct, this finding is supported by local expression of steroido-
genic enzymes (Nelis et al., 2015). Together with P4, the progestagens
5α-pregnano-3β,20α-diol (βα-diol) and 3β-dydroxy-5α-pregnan-20ona
(3β5P) increase rapidly after ovulation reaching maximum values around
the fifth day of gestation and then descend to the formation of secondary
CLs and accessories. Although the initial origin of the progestogens derives
from luteal tissue, it is also considered that their circulating levels are the
result of both luteal and placental synthesis, However, from day 160 of
gestation the fetoplacental unit is fully functional and the primary CL,
secondary CL, and accessories involute ceasing their secretory function
(Daels et al., 1991a; Holtan et al., 1991).
In the maintenance of equine gestation, it is essential to establish
a complete and uninterrupted interaction between the uterus and the
conceptus to prevent the regression of primary CL as a result of the blocking
of luteolysis. Although the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon,
known as “maternal recognition of gestation (MGR),” have not been fully
clarified, it is widely recognized that the mobility of the conceptus within
the uterine lumen between days 11 and 15 is a fundamental condition to
prevent lysis of primary CL, condition named as “first luteal response of
pregnancy” (Ginther, 1992). The continuous movements of the embry-
onic vesicle along the uterine lumen seem to compensate for the reduced
contact surface due to the relatively small size of the equine trophoblast,
demonstrating that restriction of movement only partially leads to early

embryo loss (Ginther, 1983). The PG synthesized and secreted by the

concept itself stimulate myometrial contractions that promote their migra-
tion through the uterus, avoiding premature regression of CL. Addition-
ally, the longitudinal direction of the uterine folds, as well as the spherical
shape of the embryo due to the persistence of the glycoprotein capsule,
contribute to facilitate this movement (Gastal et al., 1998; Ginther, 1998;
Stout and Allen, 2001).
On the other hand, the implication of some antiluteolytic factor, not
yet identified, secreted by the embryo itself has been postulated (Aurich
and Budik, 2015). However, unlike other species, no substance capable of
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directly inhibiting the endometrial release of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) has
been identified (Baker et al., 1991; Raeside et al., 2004). In other domestic
species, such as rodents, ruminants, or swine, the concept produces
interferons (IFN) during the pre-implantation period and its presence is
related to the regulation of uterine receptivity, decidualization, and placental
development. In the mare, the expression of a type of IFN has been detected
between days 16 and 22 of gestation which rules out its intervention in
the GMR, although it could be involved later in the embryo implantation
(Aurich and Budik, 2015).
The production of high amounts of estrogen by the equine conceptus
from day 10 of gestation onward has given rise to different researches that
suggest its implication in the development of the embryonic and endometrial
vasculature. In fact, during the mobility phase of the conceptus and its
subsequent fixation uterine perfusion is notably increased, being observed
simultaneously with a greater expression of the vascular endothelium
growth factor (VEGF-A) and its receptor (VEGFR2). The expression of this
factor has been demonstrated in endothelium, lumen, glandular epithelium,
and stromal cells in pregnant mares (Silva et al., 2011). In experimental
animals, estrogen activity on increased uterine permeability is recognized.
This action can be direct or indirect, through the stimulation of factors,
such as VEGF, which promote the diffusion of nutrients and oxygen in the
placental interface (Rowe et al., 2003; Raeside et al., 2004). Additionally,
estrogens of embryonic origin exert important local effects on myometrial
activity, uterine mobility and endometrial gland secretion (Raeside et al.,
2012). Estrone sulfate (E1S) is the predominant form during this period in
vitelline fluid and its increase parallel to the development of the concept is
a characteristic finding of equine gestation (Raeside et al., 2004). In fact,
several investigations have shown the importance of embryo synthesis

in the maintenance of maternal plasma concentrations of this steroid

during early gestation, and its measurement can be used as an indicator
of embryonic viability. In this way, Hyland et al. (1985) showed that the
elimination of an embryo in a twin pregnancy leads to a 50% decrease

in maternal E1S concentrations, while other studies have documented a
significant reduction after inducing abortion in mares between 44 and 89
days of gestation (Hyland et al., 1985; Kasman et al., 1988).
7.2.3 THE FORMATION OF ENDOMETRIAL CUPS
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Between the 15th and 17th days postovulation, the size reached by the
conceptus together with the decrease of the uterine lumen and the increase
of the muscular tone result in the cessation of mobility and the subsequent
fixation of the embryonic vesicle at the base of one of the uterine horns.
The dissolution of the blastocyst capsule exposes the trophoblast to the
uterine environment and allows the development of trophoblastic cells on
the outer surface of the choriovitelline membrane. In this way, adhesion
to the endometrium and absorption of uterine milk is promoted (Ginther,
1983, 1998).
Embryo implantation begins around day 36 postovulation and involves
the development of the chorionic band from the trophoblast, whose cells
invade the maternal endometrium giving rise to endometrial cups. The
development of the invasive trophoblast requires the proliferation and
differentiation of the uninuclear cells of the trophoblast into the binuclear
cells that will later synthesize the equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG). It
also acquires an invasive character that allows them to penetrate the endo-
metrial luminal epithelium (Antczak et al., 2013). In relation to this last
fact, it has been postulated the implication of several growth factors such as
the epidermal growth factor (EGF) and the transforming growth factor type
β (TGFβ), whose expression in the glandular epithelium increases notably
around the 30–40 of gestation (Lennard et al., 1995, 1998). Likewise,
VEGF and its receptors are found in the luminal epithelium and glandular
endometrium during the development of the chorionic band. This may
autocrine stimulate the maturation of the chorionic band cells (Allen et al.,
2007). Similarly, hepatocyte growth factor or “scatter factor” is expressed
in the mesothelial and mesenchymal allantoid cells underlying the chorion
and chorionic band, suggesting that it may act as a mitogenic agent during
trophoblastic proliferation (Gerstenberg et al., 1999).
The eCG can be detected in maternal circulation between days 40 and

120 of gestation, although they present their greatest size and functionality
around 50–85 postovulation days, with mean plasma values of 64.5 ± 3.7
IU/mL (Wilsher and Allen, 2011). However, blood levels, as well as the
total amount secreted during the period of cup activity, are directly related
to the endometrial tissue developed, that is, the amount of trophoblastic
tissue invading the endometrium. In addition, numerous factors, such as
body condition, exercise performance, female size, and uterine environ-
ment, among others, may also alter its secretion (Allen et al., 1993, 2002;
Allen and Wilsher, 2009; Antczak et al., 2013; Wilsher and Allen, 2011).
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Through the lymphatic sinuses that develop in the stroma underlying
each gland, gonadotropin reaches the maternal circulation and it induces
an increase of primary CL size and functionality. This fact is called the
“second luteal response of pregnancy” and involves an increase in plasma
levels of P4 similar to the increase in the luteal area. In addition, it
coincides temporarily with the detection of circulating eCG. Subsequently,
about 38–40 days of pregnancy, the LH activity characteristic of eCG
causes “third luteal response of pregnancy” which consists of ovulation or
luteinization of ovarian follicles developed during the first half of gestation
due to waves of pituitary FSH. In this way, secondary and accessory CLs
are formed, respectively, causing an increase in P4 secretion around the
75th day of gestation (Ginther, 1992; Ginther and Santos, 2015). Thus,
during this period, two secretion peaks of P4 are described with plasma
values ranging around 10 ng/mL first and 12 ng/mL, subsequently, that
gradually decreased to undetectable levels at 200 days of gestation
(Legacki et al., 2016; Satué et al., 2018).
Ovarian P4 is necessary for the early maintenance of gestation in the
mare, which has been demonstrated with the experimental induction of
abortion as a consequence of bilateral ovariectomy at 75 days of gestation.
On the contrary, if the ovariectomy is performed between 75 and 150
days, the probability of abortion is variable, and after day 150, it no longer
occurs, since the CLs have already regressed and the placenta is then
the organ in charge of maintaining gestation (Holtan et al., 1979; Davies
Morel, 2008). Several studies describe maximum levels of P4 during the
second and third month of gestation, followed by a significant decrease to
minimum values (<1 ng/mL) from mid-gestation to term (Tsumagari et al.,
1991; Naber et al., 1999; Satué et al., 2011). Additionally, the presence of
eCG causes a change in luteal steroidogenesis. In this case, CL changes

from synthesizing only P4 to secreting also estrogens and androgens,

increasing plasma levels rapidly and tripling the basal values (Satué et
al., 2019). The origin of both steroids is found in the primary CL, since
their increase takes place before the formation of the secondary CL and
is absent in mares without functional CL. Although the mechanism by
which gonadotropin exerts this activity is unknown, an increase in the
expression of the enzyme 17α-hydroxylase in charge of the conversion
of pregnenolone (P5) into dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and P4 into
androstenedione (A4) has been described. Both events coincide with the
secretion of eCG, they seem to be limited to the first period, since they
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are not detected toward the middle of gestation (Satué et al., 2019). In
contrast, the levels of the enzyme 3β-hydroxideshydrogenase (3β-HSD),
which converts P5 into P4, are similar to those of the right-handed.
Thus, the increase in P4 responds primarily to the growth of primary CL
and develop secondary and accessory CLs without changes in enzyme
expression (Albrecht et al., 1997; Bergfelt, 2000) (Fig. 7.1).
During the period of endometrial cups activity, secretion peaks are
described for testosterone (T) and A4 (Daels et al., 1996a, 1998), whose
activity may be decisive in uterine processes related to cell transforma-
tion associated with decidualization (Kajihara et al., 2014). In addition,
estrogen production depends on the increased synthesis and availability
of androgens that are subsequently metabolized by the enzyme aromatase
present in luteal tissue even before eCG secretion. Thus, total estrogen
levels are similar to right-handed during the first 35 days of gestation and
increase around day 40 due to follicular development prior to the formation
of CL (Ferraz et al., 2001; Tsumagari et al., 1991). Additionally, primary
gestational CL produces E1S in response to eCG stimulation (Satué et al.,
2011, 2018), describing values between 3 and 5 ng/mL (Daels et al., 1991a).
Simultaneously to the formation of endometrial cups, a microvillous
union with interdigitations between noninvasive cells of the trophoblast
and endometrium is initiated. The development of these structures culmi-
nates around 120 days of gestation and gives rise to placental microcoty-
ledons. These structures maximize the area of maternal–fetal contact and
are composed of fetal and maternal capillaries. In this capillary network,
the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste substances between the mother
and fetus takes place, representing the hemotrophic exchange unit during
equine gestation. Additionally, the endometrial glands in charge of secreting
“uterine milk” remain active during the rest of gestation, releasing their

secretions in the remaining spaces between the microcotyledons known as

areolas (Allen, 2001a).
Although the exact stimulus that initiates placental interdigitation has
not been identified, the implication of various growth factors has been
postulated, such as the transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) and EGF.
The expression of these factors in the endometrial luminal and glan-
dular epithelium increases around the month of gestation as previously
reported (Stewart et al., 1994; Lennard et al., 1998). The endometrial cells
covering the apical portions of the glands express this factor at days 35–40
postovulation coinciding with the beginning of interdigitations between
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the allantocorion and the endometrium to form the microcotyledonary
placenta (Lefranc and Allen, 2007). Likewise, the presence of EGF is
reduced in pregnant females with placental problems and endometriosis
(Gerstenberg et al., 1999; Stewart et al., 1999). On the other hand, VEGF
and its receptors are located in the invasive trophoblastic cells of the endo-
metrial cups and in the noninvasive trophoblast of allantocorion (Allen et
al., 2007), while plasma levels of placental growth factor increase during
the first months of gestation, reaching maximum values in the third month
(Satué et al., 2018). This growth factor belongs to the VEGF-A family
and binds with high affinity to the VEGFR1 receptor, promoting angio-
genesis in women, sows and small ruminants. This action is performed
through different mechanisms, such as the mobilization of hematopoietic
precursors, smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, monocytes and macrophages,
necessary for the growth, migration and survival of endothelial cells and
collateral vessels (De Falco, 2012; Ribatti, 2008; Bairagi et al., 2016).
7.2.4 FETOPLACENTAL ESTEROIDOGENESIS
The regression of the endometrial cups to 100–120 days of gestation

causes the cessation of eCG secretion and luteal development, observing
a progressive decrease in plasma levels of P4 to reach basal values around
200 days of gestation (Satué et al., 2011, 2018). At this time, all the luteal
structures present in the ovary have completely involuted (Ginther, 1992).
Although the onset of this process has traditionally been associated with the
cellular immune response of the pregnant female, recent research suggests
that chorionic band and endometrial calyx cells are capable of modulating
the immune response, suppressing lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine
expression (Flaminio and Antczak, 2005). It has also been demonstrated

that they themselves determine their apoptosis (de Mestre et al., 2011),
while the maternal leukocyte reaction would be a physiological response
secondary to the presence of already degenerated cups (Lunn et al., 1997).
In any case, from this moment onward, various metabolites derived from
P4 called progestins increase in systemic circulation, obtaining, in some
cases, variable plasma levels between 5 and 50 ng/mL that exceed 500
ng/mL during the last weeks of gestation, which subsequently fall in the
24–48 h prior to birth (Holtan et al., 1991) (Fig. 7.1).
Progestins can be classified in pregnenes and 5α-pregnenes. The first group
includes P5, P4 and 5-pregnene-3β,20β-diol (P5ββ), while second group
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includes 5α-pregnane-3,20-dione (5αDHP), 3β-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-3-one
(3β5P), 20α-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-3-one (20α5P), 5α-pregnane-3β,20β-diol
(ββ-diol), and 5α-pregnane-3β,20α-diol (βα-diol). Of them, the most impor-
tant ones in maternal plasma during this period are 5α-dihydroprogesterone
(5αDHP) and its derivatives, 20α-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-3-one (20α5P) and
5α-pregnano-3β,20α-diol (βα-diol). The origin of all of them is found in
P5, synthesized mainly in the fetal adrenal gland, with a production rate
exceeding 10 μmol/min. In the placenta, P5 is converted to P4 and this is
transformed into 5αDHP in the endometrium (Hamon et al., 1991; Han et
al., 1995). Maternal plasma concentrations of 5αDHP progressively increase
from 1.5 ng/mL in the first week of gestation to 38 ng/mL at term. Although
at the beginning of gestation the pattern of secretion runs parallel to that
of P4 around 90 days of gestation. Subsequently, the onset of P4 decline
gives way to fetoplacental synthesis of the different progestogens whose
concentrations continue to increase during the second half of gestation.
Thus, 20α5P, which is initially at 5 ng/mL, reaches 69 ng/mL at 200 days of
gestation and 300 ng/mL at term. On the other hand, the concentrations of
βα-diol increase to 484 ng/mL (Legacki et al., 2016), while 3β5P, P5ββ, and
ββ-diol reach values of 100, 10, and 100 ng/mL, respectively toward the end
of gestation (326–350 days) (Ousey et al., 2005).
Although the activity of progestogens is still the subject of research, it
is suggested that they may play a very important role in the maintenance
of gestation, acting directly on P4 receptors. In addition, although 5αDHP
appears to be less effective than P4 in regulating myometrial contract-
ibility, it has a greater affinity for its receptors (Chavatte-Palmer et al.,
2000; Fowden et al., 2008). In fact, a recent study indicates that daily
administration of DHP in pregnant females is capable to maintain gesta-
tion until day 27 in the absence of luteal P4 (Scholtz et al., 2014).

Apple Academic Press Clinical Endocrinology of Pregnant Mares

FIGURE 7.1 Steroidogenic pathways. Adapted from Haffner et al. (2010) and Miller and Auchus (2011).
197
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On the other hand, the concentration of these steroids in maternal

and umbilical circulation is variable and changes as the time of delivery
approaches. This is related to the maintenance of uterine quiescence during
this period, during which uterine stress related to increased fetal size may
stimulate myometrial contractility. Thus, 5αDHP is found primarily at the
uterine level during mid-gestation, but as labor approaches, its distribu-
tion changes and is predominantly in fetal circulation. Additionally, this
metabolite is an immediate precursor of allopregnanolone, a potent gamma-
aminobutyric acid receptor agonist with activity on myometrial relaxation
in other species (Holtan et al., 1991; Scholtz et al., 2014; Conley, 2016;
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Wynn et al., 2018a). Serum levels of allopregnanolone increase similarly
to its precursor, reaching maximum values at middle of gestation (16 ng/
mL) and a term (20 ng/mL) (Legacki et al., 2016). However, both P4 and
DHP prevent weakly myometrial contractions induced by oxytocin in vitro,
suggesting the intervention of the other hormones in the maintenance of
uterine quiescence (Ousey et al., 2000). On the other hand, an umbilical
increase of P4 after 300 days of gestation has been described, related to a
greater expression in the trophoblast of the enzyme 3β-HSD, necessary for
the conversion of P5 into P4 (Ousey et al., 2003).
Simultaneously with the production of progestagens, the FPU synthe-
sizes phenolic estrogens, E1S and E2, 17β and 17α, through the aromati-
zation of dihydroandrosterone, DHEA, and its precursors (3β-hydroxyl
C-19). The estrogens β-unsaturated, equilin, and echinelin, specific
to the equine species, derive from farnesyl pyrophosphate, through a
noncholesterol-dependent pathway (Möstl, 1994). In general, the pattern
of estrogen secretion during gestation is characterized by a first peak of
secretion around day 40 in relation to follicular development prior to the
formation of secondary and accessory CLs and a subsequent increase
from day 80, reaching maximum levels around 210 days of gestation
(Henderson and Stewart, 2000; Henderson and Eayrs, 2004; Fowden et
al., 2008). Thus, the initial plasma concentrations of E1S, corresponding
to ovarian synthesis, range from 11 to 18 nmol/L and are affected by
ovariectomy. On the contrary, the subsequent peak of liberation reaches
more than 250 nmol/L and comes only from fetoplacental synthesis,
descending drastically after fetal death (Pashen and Allen, 1979; Kindahl
et al., 1982; Raeside et al., 1997; Satué et al., 2011, 2018).
This increase in estrogens temporarily coincides with the hypertrophy
of fetal gonads, which together with local expression of the enzyme

17α-hydroxylase, lead to elevated umbilical levels of P5, T, and DHEA

(Raeside, 1979; Hasegawa et al., 2001). At the same time, maternal plasma
concentrations of DHEA and T increase after 100 days of gestation,
obtaining maximum values at six months (Canisso et al., 2014; Satué et

al., 2019), whose function is related to promoting greater perfusion in the
fetal compartment and promoting uterine tonicity (Ginther, 1992; Ousey,
2011). Legacki et al. (2016) describe DHEA values that fluctuate between
1 and 3 ng/mL during the first two months of gestation and reach levels at
around 17 ng/mL at 6 and 8 months, decreasing afterward.
In contrast, T concentrations found during this study were below detec-
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tion limits for most of gestation. In any case, the absence of the enzyme
3β-HSD in fetal gonads shows that DHEA is the final product and that the
rest of the androgens are synthesized in the placenta, where their expression
is notably increased. Thus, this enzyme is responsible for the conversion
of DHEA to A4 and P5 to P4. As previously mentioned, the fetal adrenal
glands contribute to the synthesis of steroid hormones during this period by
producing P5. However, like gonads, they do not express 3β-HSD either,
confirming that placenta is the main source P4 during the second half of
gestation in the mare (Hasegawa et al., 2001; Arai et al., 2006). In contrast,
the presence of the enzyme aromatase in the adrenal glands suggests the
involvement of estrogens in the functionality and maturation of fetal organs
as has been reported in piglets (Weng et al., 2007).
7.2.5 LATE-PREGNANCY PROGESTAGEN AND ESTROGEN

MONITORING
The mitochondrial cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme, necessary

for the conversion of cholesterol into P5, is present in the glomerulosa and
reticularis zone of the fetal adrenals from 150 days of gestation. However,
its expression increases noticeably at the end of gestation, being also found
in the fasciculata zone, in the placenta and in the uteroplacental tissues
(Chavatte et al., 1997; Ousey, 2004). At the same time, fetal plasma levels
of P5 and its uteroplacental diffusion are doubled and tripled between 200
and 300 days of gestation, obtaining concentrations of progestogens in
maternal plasma that exceed 500 ng/mL, and that subsequently descend
in the days prior to birth (Ousey et al., 2003; Ousey, 2006; Fowden et al.,
2008). The increase of progestagens during this period is associated with

the development of the mammary gland and its decrease coincides with the
fetal synthesis of cortisol. However, one of the main metabolites of P4, the
5α-DHP, returns to umbilical circulation after synthesis in the endometrium,
excreting only 30% of its production to maternal circulation. Thus, it has

been suggested that it could play a relevant role within fetoplacental tissues
(Hamon et al., 1991; Ousey et al., 2003). In fact, levels of progestogens and
estrogens in maternal plasma are considered as indicators of FPU function,
as will be described in the next section.
Although total estrogen levels decrease in term gestation, E2 increases
dramatically in the hours before parturition and plays a fundamental role.
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Specifically, during the last three weeks of gestation, this steroid presents
a pattern of constant secretion with higher levels at night and lower levels
before sunset. In the days prior to delivery, differences are accentuated and
myoelectric activity at the uterine level increases, suggesting the involve-
ment of E2 in myometrial activation (O’Donnell et al., 2003; McGlothlin
et al., 2004; Fowden et al., 2008). In fact, estrogens promote PGs synthesis
and increase endometrial sensitivity to oxytocin, stimulating myometrial
contractile activity during delivery (Ousey, 2004). Pashen and Allen (1979)
reported that females with experimentally gonadectomized fetuses, which
therefore do not release DHEA, have an immediate decrease in estrogen
and that, although delivery occurs spontaneously, there is a significant
decrease in the synthesis of PGF2α and in myometrial contractibility.
A higher probability of placental retention has been observed in these
animals. In addition, gonadectomized fetuses had less weight and muscle
development at birth than nongonadectomized fetuses.
A few days before parturition, the ripening of the hypothalamus–
pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis causes a change in the enzymatic routes. In
this way, fetal adrenals change from mainly synthesizing P5 to producing
cortisol in response to the stimulation of adrenocorticotropic hormone.
Increased fetal cortisol is independent of changes in maternal corticoslemia
and is not accompanied by changes in the expression of steroid receptors
at the uterine level (Silver and Fowden, 1994). Thus, its function is
related to preparing the fetus for extra-uterine life by stimulating different
processes necessary for the maturation of organs such as the liver, thyroid
gland, lungs, digestive system, bone marrow, and cardiovascular system
(Ousey, 2006). In addition, cortisol activates the enzymes responsible
for the synthesis of PGs which, without the presence of progestogens,
increase continuously stimulating the onset of myometrial contractions. In

addition, E2 favors the uterine response to PGs and may also promote their
synthesis (Kelleman and Act, 2013).
PGs play an important role during delivery by promoting myometrial
contractibility (PGF2α), along with oxytocin, and cervical ripening and

relaxation (PGE2). Uteroplacental tissues are capable of synthesizing PGs
and can be found in maternal plasma, fetal plasma, and allantoic fluid
(Silver et al., 1979). However, its bioactivity is controlled by the enzyme
15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH), which converts the
PGs into inactive metabolites, present in the maternal endometrium since
approximately 150 days of pregnancy. In addition, the activity of this
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enzyme could be favored in the form of paracrine by P4 synthesized in
the placenta (Han et al., 1995). On the other hand, the synthesis of PGs
could be inhibited by P4, as described in pregnant sheep (Challis et al.,
2000). Since the labile nature of PGs makes it difficult to measure one
of these metabolites, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F-2α (PGFM)
remained at low levels (<400 pg/mL) until day 200, then increased to
peak pregnancy levels (>2000 pg/mL) by day 300 and remained at this
value until parturition. PGFM uses one of its metabolites as an indicator
of its circulating levels, with a term increase (2–4 ng/mL) being described,
although it is during the second labor stage, when its value increases up to
50 times (Haluska and Currie, 1988; Vivrette et al. 2000) (Fig. 7.2).
Finally, relaxin is produced by the trophoblastic cells of the placenta
(Klonisch and Hombach-Klonisch, 2000) and its activity is related to
myometrial (Ousey, 2006), as well as of the cervix and pelvic ligaments
relaxation (Bryant-Greenwood, 1982). Maternal plasma levels increase at
the end of gestation (4–7 ng/mL) and during the second labor stage (11 ng/
mL). After the expulsion of the placenta, it returns to basal values below
the detection limit at 36 h (Stewart et al., 1982a), remaining elevated in
cases of placental retention. However, important variations associated with
breed have been described, a fact that does not seem to be related to the
placental size or sex of the offspring (Stewart et al. 1992). The functional
significance of these differences in terms of actions of relaxin is unknown.
7.3 ABNORMAL ENDOCRINE PATTERNS ALONG PREGNANCY IN

THE MARE
Early detection of committed pregnancies can allow timely interventions

and reduce foal losses. This section reviews the abnormal hormonal patterns

and analyzes the available evidence that supports or refutes the clinical
benefits of the most commonly used treatments in such cases (Table 7.1).
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FIGURE 7.2 Normal hormonal P4, E2, eCG, fetoplacental estrogens, and progestagen
patterns in pregnant mares.
7.3.1 PROGESTAGENS
7.3.1.1 PROGESTERONE
Pregnancy loss is often divided in two categories: early pregnancy loss

(EPL) or embryonic death (first 42 days) and fetal losses (after 42 days).
The most common endocrine disorder incriminated in EPL in practice is
luteal insufficiency. Luteal insufficiency implicates primarily of stimuli
that trigger PGF2α release, since primary luteal insufficiency does not
appear to be a clinically significant problem in mares (Allen, 2001b;
Morris and Allen, 2002). Around of 60% of EPL occurs during the first
42 days postovulation, when pregnancy maintenance is notably dependent
on P4 produced by the primary CL, since essential developmental events
including maternal recognition of pregnancy, embryogenesis, and initial
organogenesis, disintegration of the blastocyst capsule, endometrial cup

TABLE 7.1 Clinical Interpretation of Pregnancy Hormones in the Mare.

Hormone Normal values Interpretation
P4 Adequate to support pregnancy to Inadequate to support pregnancy:
120 days >4.0 ng/mL <2.0 ng/mL

Mid-pregnancy to term: <1 ng/mL
eCG 40–140 days > 10 IU/mL Risk of loss pregnancy: <10 IU/mL
50–120 days > 100 IU/mL
150–200 days: undetectable
T estrogens >110 days > 200 ng/mL Severely compromised or death
E1S 150–300 days > 1000 ng/mL fetus < 500 ng/mL
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45 days or greater > 10.0 ng/mL Stress or fetal weakness 500–800
80 days or greater > 60.0 ng/mL ng/mL
Placentitis or fetal compromise
< 10.0 ng/mL
Progestagens 90–325 days, 4–15 ng/mL Fetal compromise or placentitis:
Pregnanes 326–330 days, 6–20 ng/mL <4 ng/mL
331 days to term: 20–40 ng/mL Placentitis P5, P4, 3β5P,
\5αDHP: from 1.5 in 1st week to 38 P5ββ, ββ-diol, βα-diol,
ng/mL at term DHP, 20α5P, 20αDHP, and
20β-hydroxyprogesterone
20α5P: from 5 ng/mL to 69 ng/mL at
200 days, and 300 ng/mL at term
βα-diol, 3β5P, P5ββ, and ββ-diol: 484
ng/mL, 100 ng/mL, 10 ng/mL, and
100 ng/mL at term, respectively
Allopregnanolone: 16 ng/mL at mild
and 20 ng/mL at term
Relaxin >80 days of pregnancy: 45–85 ng/mL Placentitis: 33.0–53.0 ng/mL
Last 7 weeks: 63.0 ng/mL Hydrops: 33.2 ng/mL
Oligohydrallantois: 42.3 ng/mL
formation, and the onset of definitive (chorio-allantoic) placenta forma-

tion take place (Stout, 2012). Though the cause may be unknown, may
be due to illness, injury, colic, laminitis, or other situations that cause
maternal stress (Canisso et al., 2013; Sieme et al., 2015). In addition,
luteal insufficiency may be due to poor luteinization in mares with
postmating endometritis particularly associated with premature luteal
regression induced by cloprostenol (Bergfelt and Adams, 2007). If the CL
does not produce enough P4 or is destroyed, pregnancy loss occurs. It
is hypothesized that luteal insufficiency is related to deficient GnRH or

gonadotrophin secretion, which may have luteotropic effects, since exog-

enous supplementation with GnRH analogous reduce pregnancy loss at 30
days postovulation (Newcombe, 2000a,b; Newcombe et al., 2001). Some
individual case reports of luteal insufficiency which resulted in the birth of

a healthy foal: one case without adjunctive hormone therapy (Newcombe,
2000a) and other case with supplementation of P4 during the first 150 days
of pregnancy (Canisso et al., 2013) have been documented.
In early pregnancy, P4 concentrations above 4.0 ng/mL are considered
adequate to support pregnancy. However, when levels are below 2.0 ng/
mL, P4 supplementation is considered (Ousey, 2006). For this reason,
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serum P4 may be helpful in the decision to supplement mares with this
hormone. Canisso et al. (2012) reported a case of a pregnant mare in
which serum P4 concentrations had decreased below baseline by 15 days
postovulation. The embryo was markedly smaller than average for the
gestational age and the pregnancy was successfully rescued with the
administration of P4.
Several types of P4 products have been used in an attempt to maintain
pregnancies in mares. Altrenogest (allyltrenbolone, 17a-allyl-17b-hydroxy-
estra-4,9,11-trien-3-one) is a synthetic progestin widely used in equine
reproduction. After oral administration altrenogest is readily absorbed,
reaching peak levels after 3–6 h (Machnik et al., 2007). Altrenogest acts by
binding to the P4 receptors but has little effect on endogenous plasma total
progestagen concentrations (Jackson et al., 1986). Specifically, altrenogest
is not metabolized to 5α-pregnanes in the horse (Ousey et al., 2002). For this
reason, the only scientific evidence that altrenogest prevents loss pregnancy
in mares is during the first trimester, when it prevented abortion induced
by repeated administration of PGF2α (cloprostenol) (Daels et al., 1995).
P4 may exert its effects by interfering with PG production stimulated by
proinflammatory cytokines. Daels et al. (1996b) demonstrated that the
rise in endogenous PGF2α concentrations was inhibited by altrenogest
treatment. Indeed, when early pregnant mares (21–35 days postovulation)
were exposed to Salmonella typhimurium endotoxin all mares supplemented
with altrenogest until day 70 remained pregnant, whereas six out of seven
mares aborted when altrenogest therapy was discontinued on day 50 (Daels
et al. 1991a).
Mares with suspected luteal insufficiency can be supplemented with
altrenogest (0.044 mg/kg per os once or twice daily) or P4 (150 mg/day
IM) starting on day 3 after ovulation and continuing until 100–120 days

of pregnancy. Long-acting injectable formulations of P4 and altrenogest

are available in some countries (Vanderwall et al., 2007). Administration
of the GnRH analog, buserelin (40 µg), 10 or 11 days after ovulation has
been reported to improve luteal function and reduce EPL in some studies
(Pycock and Newcombe, 1996). Panzani et al. (2009) showed that the
use of altrenogest improved recipient pregnancy rates compared with
untreated controls. A recent clinical study showed a positive effect of
altrenogest supplementation on embryonic growth rates between 35 and
45 days after ovulation in Warmblood mares older than 8 years (Willmann
et al., 2011). P4 may need to be supplemented generally in early pregnant
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mares showing estrus signs, with a history of repeated EPL in case of
endotoxemia and of stressful events. In mares under P4 supplementation,
continuation of pregnancy has to be monitored regularly, since many will
lose their pregnancy despite supplementation of P4 and this will prevent
those mares returning to estrus (Sieme et al., 2015). In addition, altrenogest
can be used to save pregnancy after inadvertent PG injection, provided
altrenogest administration is begun within 18 h after PG injection (Daels
et al. 1996b).
It has been reported, that administration of a singular dose of 20–40 μg
buserelin between day 9 and 10 after ovulation increase the embryo numbers
in multiple ovulating and pregnancy rates up to 5–10% (Newcombe et
al., 2001; Kanitz et al., 2007; Newcombe and Peters, 2014). Buserelin
does not increase circulating P4 levels or preventing the luteolysis, acting
independently of CL in the mare (Stout et al., 2002). These effects prevent
EPL that operate between day 9–10 and day 13–14 of pregnancy.
In a recent study, Köhne et al. (2014) reported that human chorionic
gonadotropin (hCG) administration for induction of ovulation in mares
increased progestin concentration in plasma of early pregnancy as well as
the embryo size at the time of the start of placentation. Periovulatory treat-
ment of mares with hCG may thus be a valuable tool to enhance conceptus
growth during early pregnancy. These later authors showed that in contrast
to direct progestin supplementation with altrenogest, hCG-treatment-stim-
ulated endogenous P4 secretion. However, Biermann et al. (2014) report
that hCG treatment of mares on day 5 or day 11 postovulation influenced
peripheral P4 concentrations due to secondary luteal tissue but did not
alter ovarian and uterine blood flow or increase pregnancy rates.
Three pathological profiles of P4 may be described in late gestation
(Daels et al., 1991b):

Sudden decrease: This pattern is related with an acute condition, such

as colic, uterine torsion, mare stress, and indicates high probability of fetal
death.
Rapid increase: A rapid P4 level increase prior to the mare entering the
normal window of parturition (prior to 320 days of pregnancy) indicates
the possibility of placental pathology (placentitis) and often results in
preterm labor of an immature foal.
Lack of P4 peak: A lack of P4 prior to delivery occurs with poisoning
with fescue grass or tall fescue. Because of variations in P4 levels among
mares, it is necessary to determine the individual baseline for each mare.
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The recommended frequency of blood sampling varies from as frequently
as three times a day to as little as once every 2–3 days because only regular
testing provides reliable information on placental and fetal condition (Daels
et al. 1991b; Conley, 2016). Due during mid- and late-pregnancy progesta-
gens are produced solely by the FPU, it is possible that a progestagen other
than P4 (or synthetic P4) may be more effective at preventing preterm birth
in the mare. Nevertheless, to date, P4 supplementation remains a part of the
standard therapy protocol in placentitis cases (Ousey, 2006).
7.3.1.2 PROGESTAGENS
Several pathological conditions such as placentitis, placental separation, or

fetus, alteration in umbilical blood flow attributable to a cord pathologic
condition stimulates inflammatory and immune responses leading disrupt
the endocrine capacity of the FPU and alterations in endocrine profile in
plasma maternal attributed to disturbances to the normal synthetic pathway
for these pregnanes. Fetoplacental function can be monitored by measuring
total progestins in three or more samples of maternal plasma obtained
at 48–72-h intervals (LeBlanc, 2008) in spontaneous and experimental
placentitis (Douglas, 2004; Morris et al. 2007; Conley, 2016; Shikichi et
al., 2017). Three patterns of total pregnanes in cases of abnormal pregnancy
have been established (Ousey et al., 2002; Ousey, 2006):
First pattern: The total progestagen concentrations declining rapidly
(over a few hours or days) or are already close to zero. Progestagens in
maternal plasma have revealed that all the metabolites of P5 and P4 are less
than 95%, consistent with failure of the fetus and fetoplacental tissues to
produce and metabolize progestagens (LeBlanc et al., 2004). This pattern

is associated with fetal death or imminent fetal expulsion due to uterine

torsion, colic, maternal stress, or acute cases of experimentally induced
placentitis when the mares abort rapidly (within 7 days of infection)
(Santschi et al., 1991; Mizushima, 2005; Morris et al. 2007).

Another potential cause is the death of a single fetus in a twin pregnancy.
In this situation, the adjacent area between the placentas is already avillous
(Jeffcott and Whitwell, 1973; Ousey et al., 2000), and when the placenta
supporting the deceased fetus necrotizes, a substantial loss in pregnane
metabolism occurs (Whitwell, 1980). As the fetus is responsible for
production of P5, any case in of fetal demise will result in a loss of precursor
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and therefore a decline in measurable pregnanes in the mare’s circulation.
Second pattern: Progestagen concentrations raised precociously to levels
greater than 95% for healthy mares of a similar gestation age. Although
higher concentrations are usually found only before spontaneous parturition
at term, three different profiles associated with different placental problems
have been documented (Ousey et al., 2000; LeBlanc et al., 2004):
First profile: This profile involves unusually high concentrations of
nearly all the progestagens and has been observed most frequently in
mares with chronic cases of placentitis, placental edema, and placentas
with poorly developed or sparse microvilli (Ousey, 2006; Morris et al.,
2007). This pattern indicates that the fetus and the uteroplacental tissues
are metabolically active despite the presence of bacteria or their products
(Ousey et al., 2000). In addition, Shikichi et al. (2017) demonstrated
that mares with high concentration of progestins and low concentration
of estrogens after day 241 of pregnancy were likely to deliver aborted/
dead foals with placentitis. These authors demonstrated elevated and low
concentrations of protegins and estrogens in the maternal sera of all cases
with placentitis in pregnant mares, respectively.
Second profile: The high progestagens contain elevated concentrations
of P4, but concentrations of P5 and several metabolites are normal or low.
This profile was found in two mares, one with extensive placental villous
poverty (poor or sparsely developed microvilli) and other with placental
edema. In these cases, it seems that the placenta was less capable of
metabolizing P4 into 5αDHP and other progestagens (Ousey et al., 2000).
Third profile: Maternal progestagen may remain elevated for several
weeks before delivery, and the foals, if born alive, often have normal or
hyperadrenocortical function with raised plasma P5 concentrations, even
when delivered before term (Rossdale et al., 1995). This profile has been

associated with fetal stress which results in an increase in P5 production

from the fetal adrenal that ultimately leads to an increase in total pregnanes
(Rossdale et al., 1992). Though foals born to mares which display this
pattern are often born prematurely, they tend to fare better than those born
prematurely to mares which do not display this increase. This is thought
to be due to the increased activation of the HPA axis (Gravett et al., 2000;
Ousey, 2006).
Third pattern: Progestagens do not reveal the normal prepartum
increase. This is most often seen in prolonged gestation caused by ingestion
of tall fescue containing endophyte fungus (Ousey, 2006). This pattern is
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almost exclusively found in mares that are exposed to ergopeptine alkaloids
from the endophyte fungus found on tall fescue grass (fescue toxicosis),
although it has also been observed in apparently healthy mares with
prolonged gestations (Brendemeuhl et al., 1995). Ergot alkaloids present in
the fescue inhibit fetal CRH, inhibiting the normal function of the adrenal
gland to produce the cortisol surge and associated changes in pregnane
metabolism (Ousey, 2006). In mares with fescue toxicosis, prepartum total
plasma progestagen concentrations remain low, their foals have low cortisol
concentrations, indicating suppression of fetal adrenocortical activity and
P5 production (Brendemeuhl et al., 1995).
Based on these three progestagen profiles, the data indicate that
maternal plasma progestagen concentrations provide a measure not only
of placental function but of fetal adrenocortical activity, and thus foal
outcome. To monitor progestagen profiles of mares at risk of losing their
pregnancies, it is recommended that, initially, three jugular blood samples
were collected daily using an assay that has been well characterized for
normal concentrations in late pregnancy. These samples should determine
if profiles are increasing or decreasing. Thereafter, regular sampling
will enable the clinician to monitor any changes in fetoplacental activity
(Ousey et al., 2000).
In general, mares with high total progestagen concentrations are more
likely to deliver live foals than those with low concentrations because
there has been some degree of fetal HPA activity. Foals born after these
chronic insults often show precocious fetal maturation even when born
many weeks before term (Ousey and McGladdery, 2000). Although an
increase in fetal cortisol is advantageous for fetal survival, exposure to
high levels of glucocorticoids causes a reduction in fetal body weight at
birth (Seckl, 2004).

Ousey et al. (2005) reported changes in 10 specific pregnanes as P5, P4, 3β5P,
P5ββ, ββ-diol, βα-diol, DHP, 20α5P, 20α-DHP, and 20β-hydroxyprogesterone
from healthy mares compared with mares with diverse placental abnormalities.
Mares with pregnancy complications were grouped based upon diagnosis:

placentitis, placental pathology without placentitis, and nonplacental problems.
Results for the placentitis group showed increases in all measured pregnanes,
including P4 and P5. This suggested an increase in precursors due to fetal stress
and increased metabolites as a result. For the group with placental pathology but
no placentitis (including placental edema and avillous placenta), an increase in
total pregnanes was noted with P4, specifically, also increased. However, most
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of the individual pregnanes were either in a normal range or decreased. As this
group had issues with the placenta, it appears as though the placental function
was affected and its ability to metabolize pregnanes was reduced. For the
group of mares with problems unrelated to the placenta (colic, uterine ruptura
or torsion, laminitis, etc.), the majority had a decrease in total pregnanes. These
mares also showed a decrease in most of the individual pregnanes. These fetuses
were significantly compromised or dead; therefore, precursor was reduced, or
nonexistent, with downstream metabolites reduced as well.
Recently, Wynn et al. (2018b) compared P4, 5α-DHP, allopregnanolone,
3β5P, 20α5P, βα-diol, and ββ-diol concentrations in plasma of mares with
experimentally induced, ascending placentitis compared with gestationally
age-matched control mares. In mares with chronic placentitis, concentrations
of DHP and its metabolites (allopregnanolone, 3β5P, 20α5P, βα-diol)
increased at 2–8 days prior to abortion compared with control mares. Of
these pregnanes, 20α5P and βα-diol increased at 8 days prior to abortion
and demonstrated the largest increase (3–4 times) in mares with chronic
placentitis compared with control mares. P4 concentrations were at or below
the limit of detection (0.5 ng/mL) for control mares and were increased at
two days prior to abortion in mares with chronic placentitis but were not
different from controls in mares with acute placentitis. In mares with acute
placentitis, concentrations of DHP, allopregnanolone, 3β5P, 20α5P, and
βα-diol decreased within 0–3 days prior to abortion. In mares with chronic
placentitis, the patterns of increased pregnanes metabolized by the placenta
were similar to changes in normal mares beyond day 300 of gestation and
likely represent the effects of fetal stress and adrenal activation on pregnane
metabolism by the fetus and placenta. Decreases in these same pregnanes in
mares with acute cases likely reflect extreme fetal or placental compromise.
These studies were useful to understand how differential issues during the
pregnancy could present as different pregnane profiles.
Although it is advisable to determine the additional need for P4

between days 120 and 150 of gestation, it must be taken into account
that progestogen levels can show cross-reactivities with P4 at the
laboratory level. Also, P4 concentrations measured in blood are only

2–3 ng/mL during the second half of gestation, much lower than during
the first trimester of pregnancy. For this reason, P4 should not be used
for monitoring mid- and late-trimesters of pregnancy, since that other
progestins maintain the pregnancy (Ousey, 2011). It is known that P4
maintains myometrial quiescence, but their effects can be questioned by
(1) the number of progestagens that are quantitatively important in mares’
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plasma, (2) the information suggesting that 5αDHP or another proges-
tagen may be biologically active in the pregnant uterus, and (3) the fact
that progestagens did not prevent oxytocin-induced myometrial contrac-
tions in vitro. For this reason, both progestins and native P4 should be
used in research or in practice for supplementation during pregnancy in
mares (Daels et al., 1996a; Squires, 2008).
It is recommended that administration begin within a few days after
ovulation and is often continued until day 120 of pregnancy. From day 35
onward, endometrial cups start to form and secrete eCG the latter resulting
in formation of secondary CLs. This period of gestation is a good time to
measure blood P4 levels in supplemented mares to decide if the treatment
is still necessary. P4 levels in supplemented mares should be recontrolled
at day 60–70. Despite the necessary requirement for an ovarian source
of P4 to maintain pregnancy up to approximately day 100 in the mare
(Hinrichs et al., 1987), there is a lack of scientific evidence supporting
exogenous P4 supplementation as a means of improving pregnancy main-
tenance (Allen, 2001b; Squires, 2008; Vanderwall, 2008). Even though
altrenogest will likely suppress endogenous P4 levels; it has been reported
that administration of altrenogest in pregnant mares was associated with
lower concentrations of endogenous P4 from day 14 to 18 and on day 21
compared with endogenous P4 levels in pregnant mares not administered
altrenogest. This effect can be mediated by a reduction in pituitary LH
release and a decrease in luteotropic support (De Luca et al., 2011).
Recent studies demonstrated that altrenogest, when given in combina-
tion with antimicrobials, pentoxifylline, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
(NSAIDs) drugs to mares with placentitis, decreased the incidence of
abortion (Troedsson and Zent, 2003). In these cases, altrenogest counteract
uterine contractility induced by inflammation of the fetal membranes. In

the same way, in bacterial placentitis, a combination of trimethoprim sulfa-

methoxazole, pentoxifylline, and a double dose of altrenogest (0.088 mg/kg
bwt per os s.i.d.) was successful in maintaining pregnancies to term (Bailey
et al., 2010), while that untreated control mares aborted. When mares were
treated with trimpethoprim sulfamethoxazole and pentoxifylline without
altrenogest, only one live foal was born (Graczyk et al., 2006; Bailey et
al., 2010). Despite of this, it is not clear what role, if any, altrenogest plays
within this multitreatment approach. However, the mares can still abort
while receiving altrenogest treatment in the last trimester of pregnancy.
If altrenogest acts in the same manner as P4 to regulate PG catabolism via
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PGDH in the placenta, this may provide one pathway by which altrenogest
could regulate PG synthesis, and hence myometrial activity. Apparently,
the upregulation of oxytocin and PG receptors is inhibited at that stage by
the administration of P4, and without these receptors and the formation
of gap junctions between the myometrial cells, uterine contraction cannot
happen. The specific action and efficacy of P4 supplementation as a way
to prevent abortion in late gestation still is subject to controversy (Ousey,
2006). Since the plasma P4 concentrations are increased in most of these
placentitis mares, supplementation is questionable. Some authors believe
that it might be contraindicated, since a supplement of P4 inhibits placental
3β-HSD, converting endogen P5 to P4 (Chavatte et al., 1995). A total
blockage of 3β-HSD leads to parturition in most animals, but not in the
mare (Chavatte et al. 1997). Most likely, other progestogens play a more
determining role in preventing preterm birth in the mare (Ousey, 2006).
In relation to parturition, Neuhauser et al. (2008) showed that double
dose of altrenogest given to healthy pony mares during late gestation
induced prolongation of stage II of labor, and transient decrease in
respiratory rate in newborn foals with higher plasma pH compared with
foals born to untreated mares. These same authors also revealed that foals
born to altrenogest-treated healthy mares showed a reduced neutrophil/
lymphocyte ratio, which the authors attributed either to immunomodulatory
effects of altrenogest or dysmaturity of the foals (Neuhauser et al. 2009).
7.3.2 ESTROGENS
In late gestation, total estrogen levels (including E1S, E2 and its metabolites,
equilin, and equilenin) as well may be used for fetal and placental health
monitoring. Although total estrogen concentration >1000 ng/mL between
150 and 280 days of gestation is considered to be normal, values <500 ng/
mL have been associated with a severely compromised or death fetus and
between 500 and 800 ng/mL indicate stress or fetal weakness. However, it
is doubtful that total estrogen concentration can predict fetal death as the
fetal gonads are unlikely to respond to fetal stress (Bucca, 2006; LeBlanc,
2010; Shikichi et al. 2017).
Since the production of estrogens requires both contribution by the
fetus and placental, reduced concentrations in maternal circulation may
indicate or predict a stressed or hypoxic fetus that is not producing the
estrogen precursors (LeBlanc, 2010). Indeed, E2 (Canisso et al., 2017) and
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E1S (Kasman et al., 1988) concentrations decreased sharply in mares with
placental dysfunction and after the induction of abortion. Indeed, while
E1S concentrations >100 ng/mL indicate the presence of a viable fetus, low
levels <10 ng/mL indicate pregnancy loss or barren mare. If the fetus is
severely compromised or die in uterus, maternal plasma E1S are baseline
because of the absence of the C19 precursors secreted by the fetal gonads.
However, pregnancies compromised by equine herpesvirus-1 infection or
severe colic can present normal or transiently decreased E1S concentrations
(Santschi et al., 1991). Compared with the adrenal glands, the gonads are
unlikely to respond to fetal stress; consequently, so it is doubtful that total
estrogen concentrations can predict fetal death. Frequent blood sampling
of mares induced to abort with PG between 90 and 150 days of pregnancy
indicated that E1S levels did not decline until within 5 h of abortion (Daels
et al., 1995).
In cases of placentitis at gestational ages between 150 and 280 days,
Douglas (2004) and Shikichi et al. (2017) showed hormonal alterations
common as elevated progestogens and low estrogens in mares that
aborted. Although the decline in E2 associated with placental dysfunction
is thought to reflect placental disease per se, Esteller-Vico et al. (2017)
recommended the estrogen supplementation as a means to reduce the risk
of abortion associated with placentitis in mares. Recently, Curcio et al.
(2017) showed that in addition to basic treatment with trimethoprim-sulfa-
methoxazole and flunixin meglumine, mares with experimentally induced
ascending placentitis benefited from estradiol cypionate supplementation.
Conversely, altrenogest did not appear to make a difference in outcomes.
After fetal death and stress or fetal weakness, androgens and estrogens
levels drop rapidly. For better determination of the health state of fetus, due
to metabolism of both steroids, it is recommended to monitor androgens
and estrogens simultaneously (Conley, 2016).
7.3.3 RELAXIN
Relaxin is a useful biomarker to assess placental health and can be moni-

tored in high-risk mares. Ryan et al. (2009) reported a positive relation-

ship between circulating levels of relaxin and poor outcomes in high-risk
pregnancies. Relaxin is detectable in blood after the 80th day of pregnancy
(4–7 ng/mL) without any changes until the second stage of labor, when it
increases rapidly up to 11 ng/mL (Stewart et al. 1982b).
Relaxin concentrations decrease below 4 ng/mL in mares with
impaired placental function, in cases of placentitis, placental abruption,
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hydroallantois, and hidramnios (Stewart et al., 1992; Ryan et al., 2009).
Low circulating levels of relaxin have been reported both in pony mares
affected by fescue toxicosis associated with placental disease and agalactia
and in thoroughbred mares, with other forms of placental disease or
insufficiency (Ryan et al. 2009).
In the case of placental hydrops, the risk of spontaneous rupture of
the fetal membranes increases significantly (Christensen et al., 2006).
Relaxin has been explored as a potential marker of treatment success in
placentitis due to its level decrease in cases of spontaneously occurring
and experimentally induced pregnancy loss (Klein, 2016). However, using
circulating relaxin levels is limited due to significant breed differences and
lack of commercial tests for determining relaxin levels in blood samples
(Rossdale, 1993; Klein, 2016).
7.3.4 PROSTAGLANDINS
Placentitis is characterized by the production of proinflammatory cytokines

such as IL-6 and IL-8 and prostaglandins (PGF2α and PGE2) (LeBlanc
et al., 2012; Lyle et al., 2006; Lyle, 2014). PG release increases uterine
contractility and consequently increases the risk of premature delivery
(McGlothlin et al., 2004). However, it is unlikely that these parameters
can be used at the diagnostic level because they are rapidly metabolized
and released within the uterus or fetus (Bucca, 2006; LeBlanc et al., 2002;
LeBlanc, 2008).
Proinflammatory cytokines and the PGs of the FPU increment and both
in response to inflammation and infection, inducing premature activation
of the fetal HPA axis (Lyle et al., 2010) accelerating fetal maturation
before parturition (McGlothlin et al., 2004; Canisso et al., 2015). The fetal

adrenal produces both progestins and, once sufficiently mature, cortisol

(Lyle et al., 2010). Fetal cortisol, in turn, enhances placental and uterine
PGs production, further enhancing uterine contractility and resulting in
fetal delivery. Since the maturation of the equine fetus occurs later in
gestation (Ousey, 2006), this implies that placentitis or maternal disease
could be devastating to the newborn foal. However, early fetal matura-
tion likely counterbalances premature delivery and may help improve the
chances for foal survival (McGlothlin et al., 2004; Canisso et al., 2015).
Daels et al. (1991b) addressed whether flunixin meglumine could
prevent luteolysis and maintain pregnancy in mares that were administered
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endotoxin. Flunixin meglumine, an NSAID cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor
interferes with the production of PG. When flunixin meglumine was
administered to mares between days 21 and 44 of gestation 10 min before
endotoxin administration, endogenous P4 production was maintained and
none of the mares lost their pregnancy. In those mares in which flunixin
meglumine was administered 1 h after endotoxic insult, systemic P4 fell
<2 ng/mL for several days, and pregnancy was lost in one of three mares.
When flunixin meglumine was administered 2 h after endotoxic insult,
P4 fell <0.5 ng/mL, and all three pregnancies were lost. Likewise, the 12
pregnant mares administered only endotoxin had very low P4 concentra-
tions, and all lost their pregnancies.
Daels et al. (1996b) examined the ability of P4 or altrenogest and
flunixin meglumine administration to inhibit abortion induced by
cloprostenol. Mares were either administered P4 300 mg (q 24 h, IM) or
44 mg altrenogest (q 24 h, PO; “double dose”) beginning either 18 or 12
h, respectively, after the first cloprostenol injection. The P4 regimen was
used in eight mares between 98 and 153 days of gestation, and, of these
mares, only three aborted. When altrenogest was used in similar fashion in
mares between 93 and 115 days of gestation, none of the mares aborted. In
the contrary, when 500 mg flunixin (q 8 h, IV) was administered beginning
15 min before the first daily cloprostenol injection, all mares aborted.
Thus, P4 or altrenogest supplementation but not flunixin administration
blocked cloprostenol-induced abortion at these gestational ages. Taken
together, these studies support the concept that progestin supplementation
can maintain equine pregnancy when the mares were submitted to PGF2α
insults (Daels et al., 1991b, 1996b).
In addition, the administration of the PG synthetase inhibitor (meclof-
enamic acid) to pregnant mares after abdominal surgery diminishes the

normal postsurgical rise in PGFM and facilitates fetal survival compared

with that in untreated mares (Silver et al., 1979). In addition, Esteller-Vico
et al. (2017) showed that estrogen suppression resulted in a decrease in
circulating PGFM, which suggests that estrogens partially regulate PG

production during pregnancy, since PGFM concentrations were lower but
still increased during the last trimester of equine gestation in letrozole-
treated mares.
7.4 CONCLUSIONS
Author Copy
The adequate interaction between ovary, placenta, and fetus guarantees the
secretion of correct hormonal patterns necessary for successful pregnancy.
Measurements of progestagen, estrogens, and relaxin among others, are
useful to monitor the state of health of the placenta and fetal viability, since
placental pathologies and/or compromised or death leads to alterations of
these hormones. Diagnosis of hormones allows to temporalize and detect
early pathological conditions to propose the suitable treatment for mainte-
nance of pregnancy to produce viable foal. Substantial progress has been
made in recent years in the identification of compromised pregnancy and
their management.
KEYWORDS
•• endocrinology
•• broodmare
•• placenta
•• pregnancy
•• steroid hormones
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CHAPTER 8
Equine Semen Preservation:

Current and Future Trends
LYDIA GIL HUERTA1*, CRISTINA ÁLVAREZ2, and
VICTORIA LUÑO LÁZARO1
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1
Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Agroalimentary Institute of Aragón IA2, University of Zaragoza,
Center for Agrifood Research and Technology (CITA), Zaragoza,
C/Miguel Servet 133, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
2
Chief Veterinary Officer of the Veterinary Unit, Zaragoza, Spain
*
ABSTRACT
Nowadays, stallion semen processing and preservation for artificial insemi-

nation (AI) is a widely used tool in modern horse reproduction. During
the 20th century, AI had a strong development in most domestic animal
species except in equine species, due to economic interests, traditional
aspects and mistrust of horse owners. Semen conservation technologies
based on temperature decrease to reduce or stop sperm metabolism are
necessary to increase the lifespan of sperm and preserving sperm function-
ality and fertility. Currently, AI is performed mainly with fresh, chilled or
frozen semen. Sperm refrigeration at 5ºC has several advantages related to
easy handling and shipping, low cost because it does not require special
equipment and minor legal requirements for import and export. However,
cryopreservation is the only viable method for spermatozoa storage during
indefinite periods. The main problem of freezing semen is related to the
low fertility rates obtained due to wide inter-individual sperm quality
variability; therefore only some stallions produce suitable semen for
cryopreservation. To solve these disadvantages, new methodologies have

been studied during recent years with different results. Vitrification and
lyophilization are promising stallion semen preservation techniques that
require further study to be applied routinely during long-term periods.
8.1 INTRODUCTION
Equine sperm preservation methods have been linked to the development

of artificial insemination (AI). The first reports of AI in horses were
documented from Arabian texts, in which semen samples were obtained
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from recently covered mares of rival tribes and then utilized to inseminate
their own mares. However, until the end of the 19th century, AI did not
obtain promising results in mares due to researches carried out by Ivanow
in Russia and Dr. Pearson at Pennsylvania University.
The decrease of equine population after the Second World War and
the restrictive regulations regarding the use of AI in several equine breed
organizations delayed the progress of this technique in horses. First, studies
about stallion semen collection and handling were described by Mckenzie
et al. (1939) and Berliner (1942) with suitable sperm quality results. The
discovery of glycerol as cryoprotectant agent in 1949 by Polge et al., was
the beginning of the development of preservation techniques of biological
materials including equine sperm. Next year, Barker and Gandier (1957)
obtained the first foal from cryopreserved epidydimal stallion sperm. During
the 1970s and 1980s, the utilization of cooled semen on AI programs
increased due to the development of a transport container (Equitainer)
(Douglas-Hamilton et al., 1984), the use of Kenney extender (Kenney et al.,
1975) and the acceptance of reproductive biotechnology by several breeders.
Several advantages show frozen-thawed sperm in comparison to cooled
sperm, such as the scheduled use of stallions outside the competition
period, easy international transport and the centralized processing of
frozen semen by specialized laboratories, which decrease the variability
of the seminal quality. Despite the current advances, cryopreserved semen
shows some disadvantages, such as low fertility rates, control of the mare
cycle, and a high cost along cryopreservation process (Brinsko and Varner,
1992; Samper and Morris, 1998; Loomis and Graham, 2008). Furthermore,
it has been estimated that only 30–40% of stallions produce semen that
is suitable for cryopreservation, and a large interindividual variation on
sperm survival during the freezing and thawing procedures has been also
reported (Loomis and Graham, 2008).
Equine Semen Preservation: Current and Future Trends 229
Nowadays, AI is the most common biotechnology utilized around the

world in the horse industry and it has enabled the development of other
technologies, such as sperm sexing, regulation of the estrous cycle, embryo
transfer, cloning as well as improvement of semen preservation methods

as sperm refrigeration or freezing and, currently, sperm vitrification and
lyophilization.
8.2 SEMEN COLLECTION
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Semen collection is an essential part of preservation protocols and AI
programs. The quality of collected semen depends on numerous factors
such as libido, season, age, or breed (Samper, 2000). Semen can be
collected using different methods; condom, pharmacological induction,
manual manipulation or by the use of artificial vagina, the tool most
commonly used (Samper, 2000). There are several models of artificial
vagina available commercially. The Colorado model is the most wide-
spread at the beginning, but currently the most used is the Missouri model
due to the improvements and efficiency.
The ejaculate is a liquid suspension composed of sperm and seminal
plasma, which comprised a complex mixture of secretions (fructose,
sorbitol, ascorbic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, proteins, enzymes, vitamins,
and hormones). Seminal plasma-derived primarily from the epididymis
and accessory sex glands of the male. It participates in the final sperm
maturation, modifies spermatic membrane surface, besides acts as a
vehicle for the ejaculated sperm and protects the spermatozoa during
the female reproductive tract transport (Töpfer-Petersen et al., 2000). In
stallion, the seminal plasma is normally separated from the semen during
the cryopreservation process, since it has proved to be a harmful medium
because decrease the percentage of sperm with progressive motility
(Pickett et al., 1975; Jasko et al., 1992). The ejaculate should not be
exposed to mechanical damage, light, cold, or heat and the equipment in
contact with the sperm must be tempered, dry, clean, and free of toxic
residues. After ejaculation, the semen will be kept at 30/32ºC before the
seminal evaluation and subsequent dilution (Brinsko and Varner, 1992).
Another effective way to recover genetic material in horses is to
obtain it from the epididymis from castrated or slaughtered animals. This
technique allows obtaining sperm from stallions of high genetic value that
have suffered sudden death, major injuries, or castration. Different studies
have demonstrated the efficiency of epididymal sperm recovery (Tiplady

et al., 2002, Monteiro et al., 2011). In addition, several researchers suggest
that sperm can be harvested immediately after orchiectomy or after 24 h of
storage at 4°C–5°C without any difference in terms of viability (Bruemmer

et al., 2006; Neild et al., 2006). Different methods have been used to
collect epididymal sperm, including percutaneous epididymal sperm
aspiration, the flotation method, the retrograde flush technique, or the
standard flush technique of epididymis and ductus deferens (Cary et al.,
2004; Bruemmer, 2006). This technique allows recovery of a high number
of sperms compared with the collection by artificial vagina (Bruemmer,
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2006). The motility of epididymal and ejaculated sperm in stallions has
been found comparable and no differences were observed in terms of
morphological defects and sperm viability (Weiss et al., 2008; Guimarães
et al., 2012).
8.3 SEMEN PROCESSING
The semen quality is assessed immediately after collection. Andrological

evaluation verifies the reproductive potential of a stallion in the buying and
selling process, before the beginning of the reproductive season and before
semen preservation or AI. The general parameters used for the analysis
of semen quality include total volume, sperm concentration, motility,
and normal morphology. Other tests, such as acrosome and membrane
integrity, hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST), mitochondrial activity, or
the thermal resistance test can be used for assessment of semen quality
(Love et al., 2018). However, some animals with apparently normal semen
quality show very poor fertility rates; in these cases, a more exhaustive
evaluation is necessary.
After the semen quality evaluation, equine ejaculate is usually centrifuged.
In some countries, it is a standard practice prior to preparing sperm doses
before AI. Centrifugation increases sperm concentration of the ejaculate
and also removes the seminal plasma (Parlevliet and Colenbrander, 1999;
Hoogewijs et al., 2010). However, it might generate negative effects on the
conservation of equine sperm, decreasing the motility and viability of sperm
(Martin et al., 1979), due to the physical damage on the cells and ROS produc-
tion (Hoogewijs et al., 2010).
Contradictory results have been obtained in relation seminal plasma
utilization on sperm preservation. Different studies showed that the removal
of seminal plasma enhanced the survival spermatozoa (Parlevliet and Colen-

brander, 1999; Aurich, 2005); however, the presence of a small amount
of stallion seminal plasma (0.6–20%) increased sperm motility, plasma
membrane integrity, and fertility (Jasko et al., 1992; Moore et al., 2006;
Neuhauser et al., 2015). Beneficial effects may be related to antioxidant
properties and the inhibitory effect on the binding of polymorphonuclear
neutrophils on the female reproductive tract (Knop et al., 2005).
A special extender based on dense isotonic compounds is utilized
during centrifugation. The most common mediums are citrate-ethylene
acid (EDTA) (Cochran et al., 1984), Tyrode medium (Ljaz and Ducharme,
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1995), and glucose-EDTA (Martin et al., 1979). The extender function
is to maintain motility and protect the sperm during the centrifugation
process and in a dilution ratio of 1:1 or 1:2. The centrifugation influences
on equine sperm by the strength and time of centrifugation, the kind of
extender, the presence or absence of the extender before centrifugation,
and the concentration of seminal plasma (Pickett et al., 1975; Aurich,
2005). Different protocols have been used as shown in (Table 8.1).
TABLE 8.1 Different Stallion Sperm Centrifugation Protocols.

Centrifugation References
1000g/5 min Martin et al., 1979
600g/10 min Palmer 1984
400g/12 min Brinsko et al., 2011
400g/15 min Cochran et al., 1984
8.4 SEMEN PRESERVATION TECHNIQUES
8.4.1 SPERM COOLING
The utilization of fresh semen avoids the damage by thermal shock derived
from the conservation techniques at refrigeration or freezing temperatures.
Nowadays, sperm quality is preserved just a few hours, therefore, the sperm
conservation in refrigeration is the technique more used for semen storage
and transportation. The cooling temperature reduces sperm metabolism
sufficiently to maintain sperm viability, functionality, and fertility (Gibb
and Aitken, 2016) for up to 96 h. Several studies have determined that
AI with cooling semen shows a similar fertility rate in comparison with

fresh semen (Jasko et al., 1992; Shore et al., 1998). In addition, the semen
preserved in refrigeration at 5°C for 24 h maintains the same fertility rates
as fresh semen (Aurich, 2005).
Semen preservation at low temperatures reduces sperm catabolism and

cellular injury (Aurich, 2005). The metabolic rate restriction decreases
the production of toxic metabolites (hydrogen peroxide, lipid aldehydes,
or dioxide carbon), ATP and reactive oxygen species (ROS) (Vishwanath
and Shannon, 1997; Gibb and Aitken, 2016). However, the cooling
process involves a “cold-shock” that produces damage to the membrane,
especially when the cooling rates are higher than 0.3°C/min (Aurich,
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2005). This damage is characterized by abnormal patterns of movement,
loss of motility during storage, acrosomal membrane damage, as well as
a decrease of cellular metabolism due to the loss of enzymes and other
intracellular components (Moran et al., 1992).
Several studies show that slow cooling rates (<0.3°C/min) maximize
the motility and fertility of equine semen (Douglas-Hamilton et al., 1984;
Varner et al., 1987), although equine semen can be refrigerated rapidly
from 37ºC to 20ºC. Then, we should reduce to 0.1°C/min, preferably
0.05°C/min from 20°C to 5°C (Kayser et al., 1992). The time required for
sperm cooling from 37ºC to 4ºC is between 2 and 4 h (Moran et al., 1992).
The extender most utilized in equine sperm refrigeration storage is
INRA96®, a commercial media, made from purified fractions of milk that was
developed by Batellier et al. in 1997. In this extender, the β-lactoglobulins
and calcium phosphocaseins of milk were replaced by purified calcium
phosphocaseins, which improve sperm membrane protection. In addition, it
contains sugars and proteins that serve as an energy source and protect from
thermal shock sperm, penicillin, and gentamicin to prevent bacterial growth
and amphotericin B as a fungicide. The most common cooling extenders
utilized are synthesized as given in Table 8.2 (Palmer, 1984; Aurich,
2004). The use of glucose (a source of energy), bicarbonate (buffer), and
milk in the stallion cooling medium show the best results in progressive
motility, viability, and fertility rates (Aurich, 2004). The inclusion of some
antioxidants, such as taurine in INRA 82 and Kenney medium, improves
motility and sperm viability (Ljaz and Ducharme, 1995). The addition of
glutamine increases the fertility rates but not motility on equine chilled
semen (Trimeche et al., 1999). Milk-based medium shows better semen
analysis in comparison to egg yolk-based medium since the density of the
milk does not interfere with the microscopic manipulations of semen. The

gelatin of some extenders produces plasma membrane stabilization but

interfere with microscopic evaluation (Pickett et al.,1975).
TABLE 8.2 Stallion Sperm Chilled Extenders.

Extender References
Skim-milk-glucose Kenney I Kenney et al., 1975
Skim-milk-glucose Kenney II Kenney et al., 1975
E-Z Mixin Province et al., 1985
INRA 82 Ljaz and Ducharme 1995
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Skim-milk-gelatin Ljaz and Ducharme 1995
INRA 96 Batellier et al., 1997
8.4.2 SPERM CRYOPRESERVATION
Cryopreservation is the only viable method for sperm storage during indefinite
periods of time (Gibb and Aitken, 2016). However, freezing-thawing process
produces several detrimental effects on the gametes such us loss on sperm
viability and motility due to membrane damage caused by the production of
ROS, interruption of the membrane functionality as result of separation of
lipid bilayers, changes in water transport properties, and alteration in calcium
channels (Hammerstedt et al., 1990; Kodoma et al., 1996; Watson, 2000).
It also causes damage to the cytoskeleton, in the flagellum, in the acrosome
with reduction of the acrosomal integrity, modifications in the head and in the
subacrosomal space, in the DNA status, in the genes essential for fertilization
and in normal embryonic development (Amann and Pickett, 1987; Valcarce
et al., 2013). As a result of these alterations and modifications on sperm, the
response to osmotic stress changes and the survival life in the female genital
tract might reduce (Flesch and Gadella, 2000). The osmotic stress is due to
the extracellular ice crystals development during the cooling process that
produces a great increase in the osmolarity of the remaining liquids surround
or inside the sperm (Amann and Pickett, 1987).
8.4.2.1 EXTENDERS
The special sensitivity of equine sperm to heat shock and the interest into
increase sperm storage time have been possible in the development of

methods to prevent cold-shock damage. Different extenders are added to

ejaculate protecting the gametes from the effects of temperature changes.
The main characteristics of a cooling medium are neutral pH or slightly
acid, buffering power, isotonic osmotic pressure, an energy source for

the metabolism of sperm, avoid or minimize the growth of microorgan-
isms, stability against enzymatic degradation or oxidation, and protection
against thermal shock using penetrating and nonpenetrating cryoprotec-
tants (Aurich, 2005).
Egg yolk and skim milk are the most common protective nonpen-
etrating agents utilized against cold shock injury utilized on stallion sperm
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cryopreservation (Aurich, 2005). Milk is composed of caseins that are the
proteins responsible for protecting the sperm during conservation (Lagares
et al., 2012) and egg yolk exerts a protective effect due to its phospholipid
components (Watson y Martin, 1974). However, several disadvantages are
related to the utilization of these compounds, wide variability of compo-
sition, microbial contamination, and difficult manipulation (Aires et al.,
2003). Different studies have determined other substances that might
replace them, soy lecithin, pasteurized egg yolk, liposomes with high-
density lipoproteins (LDL/HDL), or cyclodextrins saturated in cholesterol,
with suitable results in the sperm samples after thawing (Marco-Jiménez et
al., 2004; Papa et al., 2011; Pillet et al., 2011; Blommaert et al., 2016). On
the other hand, different sugars have demonstrated the protective action
on stallion sperm. Squires (2004) observed that raffinose and trehalose did
not increase sperm motility or viability after the frozen-thawing process.
However, methylcellulose improved stallion sperm quality.
Permeable cryoprotectants can pass across the membrane and rapidly
enter and leave the cell reducing sperm osmotic stress (Alvarenga et al.,
2005). Glycerol is one of the most widely used cryoprotectant for the stal-
lion sperm cryopreservation (Gibb and Aitken, 2016). It is trivalent alcohol
with low molecular weight and toxic effect because it produces disorders in
the cytoplasm, in the permeability and stability of the plasma membrane,
and in sperm metabolism (Amann and Pickett, 1987). This molecule
passes across the sperm plasma membrane more slowly than other smaller
molecular weight cryoprotective molecules, such as amides, dimethylsulf-
oxide, or ethylene glycol (Alvarenga et al., 2005). Dimethylformamide
(or N, N-dimethylformamide, (CH3) 2-N-CHO) is a nonpenetrating
cryoprotectant of the group of amides that show the best results in rela-
tion to stallion sperm quality after cryopreservation (Gomes et al., 2002;

Alvarenga et al., 2005; Gibb et al., 2013). The amides improve motility,
viability, and fertility parameters due to its ability to maintain the structural
integrity of the plasma membrane and the organelles (Vidament et al.,
2002). Alvarenga et al., (2005) described that the relatively lower viscosity
and low molecular weight of the amides increase the permeability of these
components across the sperm plasma membrane and decrease the osmotic
damage to the equine sperm. The cryoprotective capacity is even more
evident when the amides are used in horses that have shown low motility
after freezing their semen with glycerol (Medeiros et al., 2002).
Amino acids protect mammalian cells against cold-shock damages.
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Koskinen et al. (1989) showed that betaine used at 2.5% increased
the number of sperm with progressive motility in equine semen. The
incorporation a range of 30–80 mM of glutamine and proline in the freezing
medium increased motility parameters (Khlifaoui et al., 2005).
One reason related to the decrease of fertility rates during the cryopreser-
vation process is the peroxidation of the lipids in the cell membrane. Lipid
peroxidation is the oxidative degradation by ROS of lipids. Semen contains
antioxidants that balance lipid peroxidation and prevents excessive formation
of lipids peroxides (Griveau et al., 1995). High concentrations of superoxide
dismutase have been found in equine seminal plasma (Mennella and Jones,
1980) and Kankofer et al. (2005) determined positive interaction between
seminal plasma and milk-based extender increasing the antioxidant capacity.
This hypothesis is supported by the fact that the addition of certain antioxi-
dants, such as ascorbic acid (Aurich, 2005) or pyruvate (Bruemmer, 2006),
improved sperm plasma membrane integrity, motility, and fertility of equine
sperm. Detergents (Equex STM) have been added to the seminal freezing
extenders. This compound increases the emulsion and dispersion of the egg
yolk lipids and interact with the sperm plasma membrane. The presence of
seminal plasma increases sperm resistance to cold-shock and the ability to
survive during the freezing and thawing process. The individual differences
of the seminal plasma composition could explain the variability between
stallions for sperm tolerance to cryopreservation (Ramires Neto et al., 2014).
In the last 25 years, two extenders and their modifications have been
most utilized in equine reproduction. Martin et al. (1979) together with
Cochran et al. (1984) demonstrated that the lactose-egg-glycerol extender
supplemented with EDTA and sodium bicarbonate maintained suitable
percentages of motility and viability after thawing equine semen, achieving
pregnancy rates of 63%. On the other hand, Palmer et al. (1984) proposed

the alternative skimmed milk-egg yolk-glycerol extender with good sperm

quality results after freezing. Currently, there is a wide variety of commercial
extenders available that could be used for equine semen cryopreservation.
Gent® (MinitubeIberica SL, Tarragona, Spain) and Botucrio® (BiotechBotu-

catu, Sao Paulo, Brazil) are the most common commercial medium utilized
(Macedo et al., 2017). INRA 96® (IMV Technologies, L’Aigle, France)
is the most used in chilled doses, with the possibility of adding different
permeable cryoprotectants agents for freezing (Álvarez et al., 2014).
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8.4.2.2 CRYOPRESERVATION PROTOCOL
The first step in the cryopreservation protocol is the centrifugation of the

semen sample in order to increase the concentration of semen and reduce
the amount of seminal plasma (Hoogewijs et al., 2010). Previously, the
ejaculate is usually diluted in semen/media ratio of 1:1 (Pickett et al.,
1975; Martin et al., 1979; Cochran et al., 1984).
In relation to sperm concentration, Loomis et al. (1983) recommended
that high concentrations are preferable, on the contrary to Heitland et al.
(1995). Samper and Morris (1998) suggested that freezing at low sperm
concentrations could provide high availability of nutrients and cryoprotec-
tants per sperm. This fact would explain the high percentages of motile
spermatozoa immediately after thawing when frozen at a concentration
of 40x106 sperm/mL. Standard sperm concentrations ranges between
50/200x106 sperm/mL in equine semen. Several storage devices have been
used, including vials or glass ampoules, straws of polypropylene, polyvinyl
or plastic (generally with volumes between 0.5 and 1 cm³), macrotubes,
containers of aluminum, pellets and plastic bags (Martin et al., 1979;
Cochran et al., 1984). Nowadays, straws of 0.5 cm³ are the devices most
utilized worldwide (Fig. 8.1).
Stallion sperm can be successfully frozen when the temperature drop
ranges between 5ºC and 45ºC per min (Moore et al., 2006). In a study
carried out by Salazar et al. (2011), he determined that a slow cooling
curve prior to freezing improved the results with respect to rapid cooling.
Cryopreserved semen involves storage at extremely low temperatures in
liquid nitrogen (–196ºC). If the sperms are able to withstand the freeze-thaw
cycles, sperm viability could be maintained indefinitely since the metabolic
activity is considered null at this temperature (Brinsko et al., 2011).

FIGURE 8.1 Steps and schematic design for sperm cryopreservation.
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The success of freezing processes is also limited by the thawing process.
In general, if the cooling rate is fast, the thawing should also be fast.
Alternatively, if the cooling rate is slow, the process must be slow (Amann
and Pickett, 1987). There are different thawing protocols, depending on
the size of the container. If the sperms are frozen in macrotubes, they are
normally thawed in the water at 50°C for 40 s (Martin et al., 1979). There
are two protocols available in 0.5 mL straws: 37°C in water bath for 30 s
(Cochran et al., 1984; Loomis et al., 1983) or 75°C for 7 s and immediately
in another water bath at 37°C for 5 s (Cochran et al., 1984).
8.4.3 SPERM VITRIFICATION
In the last years, long-storage alternatives sperm preservation methods
simplest and cost-effective have been proposed in several species. One
of them is sperm vitrification. This method preserves the spermatozoa in
a hypertonic medium by plunging the cells directly into liquid nitrogen
(Rall y Fahy, 1985). The advantages of vitrification are related to the low
cost of equipment, simplicity, and low exposure time at low temperatures.
However, it produces adverse effects due to the use of hypertonic solutions
and high concentrations of cryoprotectants (Lopera et al., 2007).
Vitrification is an ultrafast freezing method (from 37ºC to–196ºC in
less than a second), based on the solidification of spermatozoa without
the formation of ice crystals (Isachenko et al., 2004; Pradiee et al., 2015).
This technique requires high concentrations of permeable cryoprotec-
tants (Isachenko et al., 2008) that increase the viscosity of the medium
and prevent the formation of intracellular ice during cooling (Rall and
Fahy, 1985). It is the election method for preservation oocytes, embryos,
and other tissues that require rapid cooling rates (Rall and Fahy, 1985).

However, the results obtained on sperm preservation are not satisfactory

when compared with the results observed in oocytes or embryos applying
the same protocols, due to the lack of tolerance of spermatozoa to the high
concentration of cryoprotectants (Oldenhof et al., 2017). The kinetic of

vitrification has been studied in order to improve vitrification results. It
consists of the generation of small volumes of sperm solutions without any
permeable cryoprotectant in LN2 (Isachenko et al., 2008), avoiding the
formation of intracellular ice (Isachenko et al., 2004). Kinetic vitrification
for sperm processing is different compared with the conventional term for
vitrification associated with oocytes and embryos, where both the intra-
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cellular environment and the extracellular environment must be vitrified
(Pradiee et al., 2015) (Fig. 8.2). There is no single protocol established,
depending on of sensitivity of the sperm, extenders, cryoprotectants, and
devitrification methods (Table 8.3). Recently, Álvarez et al. (2019) have
determined that equine sperm vitrification is affected by sperm origin.
Thus, vitrification with equine epididymal spermatozoa showed better
quality results than equine ejaculates.
FIGURE 8.2 Stallion sperm vitrification process in cryotubes (A, B) and freeze-dried stal-
lion sperm (C).
TABLE 8.3 Summary of the Principal Vitrification Protocols on Stallion Sperm.

Extender Volume Cryoprotectant Desvitrification References
Equipro 1.8 mL 8% egg yolk+DMF 37°C 5 min Restrepo et al., 2012
INRA 96+BSA 25 µL Sacarose and 65°C 5 s and Pérez-Marín et al., 2018
trehalose 37°C 3 min
INRA 96+BSA 30 µL Sucrose 42°C 5 s Hidalgo et al., 2018
INRA 96+BSA 0.25 mL Sucrose 43°C 5 s Consuegra et al., 2018

Perez-Marín et al. (2018) obtained better results in total and progressive

motility with fresh and frozen ejaculate semen than vitrificated sperm with
trehalose and sucrose (0.15 M). Another study conducted by Restrepo et al.
(2012) found superior results of progressive motility with fresh semen and
frozen semen than vitrificated semen. However, other studies determined
better motility results when included sucrose and BSA in the vitrification
medium with an equilibration period than the traditional freezing process
(Consuegra et al., 2018; Hidalgo et al., 2018).
8.4.4 SPERM LYOPHILIZATION
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Lyophilization is a preservation method in which frozen material is dried
by sublimation of ice, thereby, involving a direct transition from a solid
(ice) to a vapor (gas) phase. The main objective of the process is to remove
water from the cells avoiding any chemical or biological reaction. It
consists of three phases: sample freezing, sublimation (primary drying),
and desorption (secondary drying) (Jennings, 2002).
The first attempts to lyophilize spermatozoa were made in rooster semen
in 1949 (Polge et al., 1949) and then in human and bovine semen (Sherman,
1954; Bialy and Smith, 1957). Any of these studies did not demonstrate
the fertility of freeze-dried sperm. In 1998, Wakayama and Yanagimachi
reported the first offspring obtained from freeze-dried mouse sperm. This
study demonstrated that although lyophilized sperm were dead, the DNA
did not lose their ability to activate the oocyte with the subsequent embry-
onic development (Kusakabe et al., 2001).
One of the main advantages of this method is that nitrogen is no
longer required for the storage and shipment, which can be stored at room
temperature or 4°C. The storage and shipping costs are reduced. However,
freeze-dried sperm lose their motility, even after rehydration (Kusakabe et
al., 2001), therefore sperm are unable to fertilize oocytes by themselves in
vivo as by in vitro (Fig. 1.2). It is necessary to use intracytoplasmic sperm
injection (ICSI) to perform successful fertilization.
Several factors influence the lyophilization process and produce different
sperm damage. One of them is the drying conditions during the lyophili-
zation process (Hara et al., 2014). The interaction between temperature,
vacuum pressure, and drying period regulates the kinetics and the degree
of dehydration, which have a great impact on the sperm (Kawase et al.,
2007). Lyophilized sperm preservation for a long period of time is essential
to protect DNA from physical damage caused by the action of endogenous
endonucleases during storage (Kaneko and Serikawa, 2012). Chelating

agents, such as EDTA, are necessary. 1,2,2-diamino 2,2', 2", 2"-tetraacetic)
or ethylene glycol-bis (2-aminoethyl ether)-N, N, N'N'-tetraacetic acid
(EGTA) are incorporated in the lyophilization solution to prevent sperm

DNA fragmentation (Kaneko and Nakagata, 2006). Olaciregui et al., (2016)
determined that the presence of EGTA in the lyophilization media provided
a protective effect on the DNA sperm than the presence of EDTA. Sugars
have been studied as components of the lyophilization medium. Trehalose,
a nonreducing disaccharide, plays an important role in the prevention of
membrane alterations in cellular dehydration. The incorporation of treha-
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lose to the lyophilization medium maintains the integrity of the DNA after
the lyophilization process (McGinnis et al., 2005).
The pH of the lyophilization media is a factor to be taken into account.
An alkaline pH (pH:8) contributes to the inactivation of DNA damage.
Kaneko and Serikawa (2012) showed that lyophilized sperm in a medium
with an alkaline pH maintained the DNA integrity as well as their capacity
for embryonic development. Another factor that may influence sperm
preservation is the conditions of conservation. Currently, it is considered
that 4ºC is the optimum temperature to preserve lyophilized semen samples
for long periods of time (Kaneko and Serikawa, 2012).
The rehydration process restores the lyophilized cell to the original
formulation. It is a critical step in the process since when reintroducing
water into the cells, all the chemical and biological reactions are reactive.
The lyophilized sperm are normally rehydrated by adding ultra-pure
water, in an equal volume as the original (Gil et al., 2014). Finally, another
important factor is the technique of ICSI. After the lyophilization process,
the sperm lose motility, so the ICSI technique is necessary to fertilize the
oocytes. The development of the ICSI is the key to success in obtaining
offspring from lyophilized semen, as published for the first time by
Wakayama and Yanagimachi (1998) and Choi et al. (2011) because they
obtained the first foal born alive.
In small and farm animal species, satisfactory results have not been
obtained, except in the equine species (Choi et al., 2011). In this case,
lyophilized stallion semen and sperm extract suspension were utilized from
different males. Five pregnancies were obtained an only two foals born.
One of them was originated from lyophilized sperm and the other was
from the stallion that provides the sperm extract. The lyophilized sperm
and sperm processed by multiple unprotected freezing and thawing cycles

(such as sperm extract) can originate viable foals. To our knowledge, this is
the first report on the production of live offspring by ICSI with lyophilized
sperm in a nonlaboratory animal species.
Lyophilization is a promising semen preservation technique that

requires further study to be applied routinely during long-term conserva-
tion periods. This technique would be a suitable alternative biobanking
option for high genetic values animals.
KEYWORDS
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•• stallion
•• semen preservation
•• cryopreservation
•• vitrification
•• lyophilization
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CHAPTER 9
The Journey of the Porcine

Spermatozoa from Its Origin to the
Fertilization Site: The Road In Vivo
vs. In Vitro
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CRISTINA SORIANO-ÚBEDA*, FRANCISCO ALBERTO GARCÍA-VÁZQUEZ,
and CARMEN MATÁS
“Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain Institute
for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
*
ABSTRACT
Assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs) are of great interest in both

research and animal production. The porcine species is especially impor-
tant due to its anatomical, physiological, and genetic similarities with the
human species which makes the pig of special relevance as a biomedical
model. In this sense, all the critical points during animal production must
be controlled. In vitro production of embryos (IVP) is no exception.
Fertilization is a complex biological process in which innumerable factors
are directly and/or indirectly involved. For healthy animals, the efficiency
of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and IVP is lower than in vivo. However,
in some mammalian species such as bovine and murine a high yield has
been achieved but, in porcine species, it is still suboptimal. With a focus
on the special requirements of pig reproduction, different studies have
been conducted over the last several decades to improve IVP efficiency by
using a variety of methods to prepare and co-culture gametes and develop

normal embryos. The knowledge of the differences between the in vitro and
in vivo environments in which fertilization occurs plays a key role, and the
in vitro simulation of in vivo conditions is postulated as the best strategy
to improve ARTs. This chapter summarizes the spermatozoa physiology

and functionality from their origin in the testicle to the fertilization site in
the oviductal ampulla and exposes the main strategies currently used in
porcine IVP.
9.1 INTRODUCTION
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Assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs) have helped to understand many
of physico-chemical events around reproductive physiology in animals, with
a remarkable increase in mammals and profound implications for human
beings. Researchers have been looking for ways to expand the knowledge
about the genetic influence in reproduction, the hormonal reproductive
cycle regulation, superovulation and embryo collection, culture, freezing
and transfer. The achievements have allowed the development of various
techniques that have been gaining much interest in recent years in mammals,
such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). In the particular case of porcine species,
reproductive technologies have been directed toward both swine production
and research. The economic interest of this species has produced the devel-
opment of numerous systems for production of pigs for human food that are
continuously undergoing changes to reduce costs and increase production
efficiency (Day, 2000). Moreover, although not classically thought of as an
obvious model organism, the pig has recently become relevant in research
due to its anatomy, genetics and physiology are closer to human, at least
more than other classic animal models as mice. Several notable advance-
ments have been achieved in the use of this species as a biomedical model in
the genetic technology and have motivated the interest in the possible use of
swine as donors of specific proteins and even organs for the improvement of
human health (Watson et al., 2016; Mourad and Gianello, 2017). At the same
time, the scientific interest on swine reproduction has undergone significant
progress in basic science and ARTs. Particular emphasis has been made in the
development of different protocols for IVF and in vitro production and culture
of viable embryos in pigs. For these purpose, numerous studies have been
carried out related to the sperm capacitation process signalling, the molecules
involved in the gametes interaction and fertilization and in early embryo
development, both in vivo and in vitro (reviewed by Romar et al., 2016).
The Journey of the Porcine Spermatozoa from Its Origin 249
However, while these techniques have achieved a good efficiency in some

mammalian species such as bovine or murine, the results obtained in porcine
species are so far not comparable to in vivo output. The study of sperma-
tozoa physiology and functionality, from their origin in the testicle to the
fertilization site, and also of the oocyte and its interaction with the sperma-
tozoon gains special importance in the purpose to increase the efficiency of
the processes of in vitro sperm capacitation (the ability of spermatozoa to
fertilize oocytes) and fertilization.
Up to now, the journey of the sperm to the egg and fertilization in vivo
is still poorly understood, but what seems clear is that all the processes and
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physico-chemical events that the spermatozoon undergoes from its origin
in the testis to the fertilization site are a coordinated system in which each
step is important for the success of the spread of genetics. Increasing
this knowledge can be key in order to improve the current techniques of
assisted reproduction. Below, what is currently understood about some of
the most important in vivo events in these processes is detailed.
9.2 THE SPERMATOZOA IN THE MALE GENITAL TRACT
9.2.1 SPERMATOZOA IN THE TESTICLE AND EPIDIDYMIS: ORIGIN,

MATURATION AND STORAGE
The spermatozoa originate in the germinal epithelium of the seminiferous

tubules of the testis during spermatogenesis in which the male produces sper-
matozoa from spermatogonial stem cells by consecutive mitotic and meiotic
divisions. The immature spermatozoa leave the rete testis by passing through
the efferent ducts, they enter a unique tubule, the epididymis, in which the
final stages of spermatozoa differentiation occur (Joseph et al., 2009).
During the transit through the epididymis, there are progressive and
sequential modifications of maturing male gametes that have been demon-
strated to be essential for the acquisition of motility and fertility (Wolf, 1981).
The morphological, biochemical and physiological changes as they
move along the epididymis basically are: (i) changes in motility pattern, (ii)
modifications in the metabolism and the distribution of tail organelles, (iii)
chromatin restructuring, (iv) acrosome shape remodeling, (v) water reab-
sorption and an increased concentration of cells, (vi) cytoplasmic droplet
migration and detachment, and (vii) modifications in the spermatozoa plasma
membrane. A specific composition in proteins (Syntin et al., 1996) and other
organic molecules and ions (Cooper, 1986; Rodriguez-Martinez et al., 1990;

Setchell et al., 1993) in each epididymal region allows the maturation of
spermatozoa. The proteins are incorporated to the spermatozoa through
specific exosomes of the epididymis to which proteins are associated, called

epididymosomes. These little membranous particles selectively transfer the
proteins to spermatozoa during the epididymal transit playing a major role in
the production of fully functional gamete (Sullivan et al., 2005). After that,
a high proportion of mature spermatozoa are stored in the cauda in a state of
quiescence until ejaculation (Briz et al., 1995).
The epididymal influences on spermatozoa maturation and storage
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have two clear objectives: (i) promoting the ability of spermatozoa to
respond appropriately to conditions within the female genital tract so they
can fertilize the oocyte, and (ii) preventing this response within the male
tract itself (Cooper, 1986). This state of inactivity also is associated with
low extracellular pH in the cauda epididymis (pH ~6.2) resulting from a
low bicarbonate (HCO3-) concentration of ~3–4 mmol/L (Okamura et al.,
1985; Rodriguez-Martinez et al., 1990).
9.2.2 SPERMATOZOA IN THE EJACULATE
During ejaculation in the boar, spermatozoa emitted together with cauda

epididymal fluid are poured into the urethra and are sequentially exposed
and resuspended in different mixtures of accessory sex gland secretions.
The fluid portion of this suspension, which is called the seminal plasma
(SP), nourishes, transports and protects spermatozoa and modulates the
uterine immunological response during their journey through the female
genital tract (Schuberth et al., 2008). The SP regulates spermatozoa motility
and acquisition of the ability of spermatozoa to fertilize oocytes (sperm
capacitation), modulates the recognition and interaction between gametes,
maintains spermatozoa fertility, buffers the extracellular media, maintains
the osmolarity and is a source of energy for spermatozoa metabolism (Mann
and Lutwak-Mann, 1981). The molecular changes that SP provokes in the
spermatozoa enhance their lifespan and fertilizing capacity but cannot be
totally responsible for it. The action of SP antioxidants, secreted by the male
reproductive tract, protect spermatozoa from the toxic effect of reactive
oxygen species (ROS) after ejaculation (Koziorowsk-Gilum et al., 2011).
Once spermatozoa are ejaculated and in contact with the SP, they display
one type of physiological motility called ‘activated’ motility. They become
motile and undergo an increase in metabolic activity due to the release

from the suppressive conditions in the epididymis. During the ejaculation,
spermatozoa are suddenly immersed in a HCO3--rich fluid, particularly
in the sperm-richest fraction (Okamura et al., 1985; Rodriguez-Martinez

et al., 1990) and the pH of the media surrounding the spermatozoa also
increases to between 7.3 and 7.8 (Garner and Hafez, 2000).
The main ion transporters for spermatozoa pHi regulation can be arranged
into two groups: membrane H+ transporters and HCO3- transporters. The
first group (Fig. 9.1) involves the membrane Na+/H+ exchangers (sNHE)
(Orlowski and Grinstein, 2011) and H+ channels (Hv) (Lishko et al., 2010).
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The second group consists of membrane proteins that carry HCO3- across
the plasma membrane, such as solute carriers 4 and 26 families (SLC4
and SLC26) and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator
(CFTR) (Liu et al., 2012) that acts as an ion channel. Moreover, the CO2/
HCO3- is equilibrated by membrane associated carbonic anhydrases (CAs)
that catalyzes the reversible conversion of cytosolic CO2 to HCO3- and H+
release (CO2 + H2O ↔ H2CO3 ↔ HCO3- + H+) (reviewed by Nishigaki et
al., 2014). Upon ejaculation, HCO3- is the unique activator that makes the
quiescent spermatozoa motile (Okamura et al., 1985; Tajima et al., 1987).
The SP activates certain channels in the spermatozoa plasma membrane
during ejaculation that causes them to pass from immobile and inactive in
the epididymis to mobile and active in SP. However, although the SP acti-
vates sperm motility, it does not activate other pathways related to sperm
capacitation and contains specific ‘decapacitating’ factors that prevent the
premature capacitation of spermatozoa in the ejaculate.
For the sperm capacitation process to occur normally, it is necessary to
have SP removal and plasma membrane decoating of the decapacitating
factors that are inhibiting or blocking that process. These SP factors will be
lost in vivo along the spermatozoa journey through the female genital tract.
9.3 THE SPERMATOZOA IN THE FEMALE GENITAL TRACT:

CERVIX AND UTERINE HORNS
Spermatozoa transport from the place where semen is deposited to the

fertilization site is a complex process in which spermatozoa are progres-
sively exposed to a dynamic and hostile environment and a strict selection
process. Billions of spermatozoa are deposited into the cervix during
mating or common AI in porcine, but only a limited number reach the
UTJ and the large majority of those do not pass through it (Hunter and
Nichol, 1988). It involves numerous interactions between semen and the
female genital tract that ensures that a sufficient number of fertilization-
competent spermatozoa colonize the oviduct.
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FIGURE 9.1 Sperm molecular basis of the spermatozoa capacitation pathway with
special attention to bicarbonate (HCO3-). Fast and slow capacitation events depending on
HCO3- uptake. The fast capacitation events (represented in green) take place as soon as
spermatozoa are capacitated and deposited in the uterus: HCO3- uptake and subsequent
intracellular pH alkalinization (pHi) and motility activation (fast capacitation events).
The slow capacitation events (represented in red) occur once spermatozoa achieve the
oviduct (from isthmus to ampulla): hyperactivation, tyrosine phosphorylation (Tyr-P) and
preparation to undergo acrosome reaction (AR) develop in a sequential and parallel way.
Both fast and slow events depend on the HCO3- and Ca2+ concentrations in the medium, but
the slow ones also depend on the presence of albumin as membrane cholesterol acceptor.
Membrane HCO3- transporters: Na+/HCO3- co-transporters (NBC) and Cl-/HCO3- anion
exchangers. Membrane H+ transporters: Na+/H+ exchangers (sNHE), H+ channels (Hv).
The CO2/HCO3- is equilibrated by membrane associated carbonic anhydrases (CAs)
that catalyzes the reversible conversion of cytosolic CO2 to HCO3- and H+ release (CO2
+ H2O ↔ H2CO3 ↔ HCO3- + H+). After changes in sperm membrane fluidity and lipid
scrambling HCO3--dependent pathway is activated (Visconti et al., 1995). In the presence
of albumin, HCO3- leads to the activation of the soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC) of the sperm
membrane, which catalyzes cAMP metabolism and regulate the protein kinase A substrates
phosphorylation (PKAs-P) (Visconti, 2009) on which fast and slow events depend.

9.3.1 SEMEN DEPOSITION AND SPERMATOZOA TRANSPORT
During natural mating or AI in porcine, billions of spermatozoa are

deposited in the uterus but only a few thousand reach the oviducts (First et
al., 1968; Sumransap et al., 2007) (Fig. 9.2). The fact that these processes
happen in the uterus suggests that spermatozoa are subjected to strict
selection during their transport towards the oviduct. Nevertheless, and
under normal circumstances, spermatozoa are able to reach the oviduct
within 1 h after semen deposition (Hunter, 1981).
The displacement of spermatozoa through the female genital tract to
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the site of fertilization seems to be a combination of passive and active
transport. In the ‘passive transport’, the action of the uterus is essential
to spermatozoa moving forward. The vigorous contractile activity of
the myometrium directed forward and backward favors, on one hand,
the advance of spermatozoa through the uterine horns towards the
oviduct, and on the other hand, contractile activity eliminating part of the
spermatozoa in the backflow (García-Vázquez et al., 2015). Reproductive
hormones modulate contractions in the myometrium, which are inhibited
by progesterone (P4) and reaches maximum activity during estrus by
the action of estrogens, oxytocin, and prostaglandins (Langendijk et al.,
2005). The rate of spermatozoa transport along the uterus is much faster if
spermatozoa swim efficiently in the uterine fluid (UF), which is commonly
called ‘active transport’. This kind of transport is especially important
to maintain the spermatozoa in suspension in the UF. Rapid transport
of spermatozoa through the uterus can enhance spermatozoa survival by
helping them to evade the local immune reaction. Gaddum‐Rosse (1981)
observed that immotile spermatozoa were unable to reach the last portion
of the uterine horns, the utero-tubal junction (UTJ). The UTJ, the second
great anatomical barrier of the uterus for the spermatozoa, is extremely
narrow and tortuous and only a few thousand manage to pass through it
and enter the oviduct.
9.3.2 SPERMATOZOA INTERACTION WITH UTERINE

ENVIRONMENT
The epithelial uterine cells act creating an immunological barrier for sper-
matozoa and biological agents like viruses and bacteria. In the estrus stage
of the cycle there is a massive migration of leukocytes (mainly PMN) to
the sub-epithelial stroma (reviewed by Taylor et al., 2009). The presence

of semen constituents, whether during coitus or AI, enhances the immu-
nological reaction, trying to eliminate the foreign material including any
bacteria (Schuberth et al., 2008), and produces an ideal environment for

embryo implantation (Rozeboom et al., 1998). The PMNs collaborate in
spermatozoa selection in the uterus due to their phagocytic action on non-
motile or damaged spermatozoa (Tomlinson et al., 1992; Matthijs et al.,
2003). One of the mechanisms to avoid the selective action of backflow
and neutrophil attack is spermatozoa adhesion to the uterine epithelial cells
(UEC) apical membrane (Taylor et al., 2008). The communication with the
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UECs is maintained mainly by spermadhesin-, lectin- or lectin-like protein-
mediated interactions (Töpfer-Petersen et al., 1998; Bergmann et al., 2012).
Only viable, membrane-intact and motile spermatozoa attach to the UECs
(Rath et al., 2008) and it is probable that spermatozoa selection also depends
on a specific morphology (reviewed by García-Vázquez et al., 2016).
Transport of spermatozoa into the uterus influences capacitation
because spermatozoa are separated from the ‘decapacitating factors’ and
other inhibitors and protectors present in the SP such as spermadhesins
(Dostàlovà et al., 1995; Garner and Hafez, 2000) and spermatozoa are
significantly diluted in luminal secretions and are susceptible to the changes
of characteristics or composition of UF. The acidity or excessive alkalinity
immobilizes spermatozoa, but moderately alkaline fluid enhances their
motility (Garner and Hafez, 2000). In general terms, at the time of ovula-
tion porcine cervical mucus is most alkaline (pH ~8.4, Hafez and Hafez,
2000), in which only some of the spermatozoa survive, which contributes
to the selection of spermatozoa that are resistant to pH changes.
After the passage throughout all selective barriers aforementioned, the
number of spermatozoa that reach the lower oviduct has been considerably
reduced.
9.4 THE SPERMATOZOA IN THE FEMALE GENITAL TRACT: THE

OVIDUCT
The mammalian oviduct provides a suitable environment for spermatozoa

transport, storage and capacitation, oocyte pick-up, transport, maturation
and fertilization, and early embryo development (Hunter and Rodriguez-
Martinez, 2004). In some species of mammals including pigs and cows,
oocytes are rapidly fertilized after ovulation; however, spermatozoa do
not always colonize the oviduct at the same time as ovulation occurs.
Spermatozoa need to survive and keep their fertility potential while waiting
for ovulation within a certain time window. For this purpose, a storage site
for spermatozoa is formed in the caudal isthmus, the sperm reservoir (SR),
which has been described to be functional in pigs up to 30 h from onset of
estrous (Rodríguez-Martínez et al., 2005). The SR ensures that a suitably low
number of viable and potentially fertile spermatozoa are available to reach
the fertilization site. Spermatozoa remain attached to the oviductal (isthmus)
epithelial cells (OECs) in the SR and remain in a state of quiescence. After
ovulation, spermatozoa are progressively released from OECs, their motility
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pattern changes (termed hyperactivation) and their plasma membrane is
destabilized as part of the sperm capacitation process. In porcine, unlike
other mammalian species where fertilization takes place in the oviductal
ampulla, spermatozoa reach the AIJ where they interact with the ZP of the
oocytes and undergo the AR to fertilize them. Finally, spermatozoa penetrate
the zona pellucida and fuse with the oolemma (Yanagimachi, 1994a). During
all these events in the oviduct, the specific characteristics and composition
of the oviductal fluid (OF) in the periovulatory stage are essential to ensure
proper sperm capacitation and gamete interaction.
9.4.1 SPERMATOZOA-OVIDUCT ADHESION AND RELEASE FROM

THE ‘SPERM RESERVOIR’
Only a small part of the inseminated spermatozoa achieves the caudal part
of the oviduct, and transiently adhere to the ciliated OECs forming the SR
(Fig. 9.2). The SR provides a selective barrier in the oviduct more specific
than that of the uterus and allow the survival of spermatozoa with certain
qualities and extension of their lifespan. The spermatozoa remain bound to
OECs for up to 36–40 h before ovulation with no reduction in their fertil-
izing ability (Tienthai, 2015) and they are the most competent for fertiliza-
tion based on their functionality (reviewed by Holt and Fazeli, 2010). The
SR formation has been described as a crucial phase for fertilizing potential
before gametes interact, which ensures that a suitable number of viable
and potentially fertile spermatozoa are available (Hunter, 1984). The more
probable significance of the SR establishment is to sequentially release
the attached spermatozoa after ovulation to allow only a small quantity
of them to reach the oocyte at any given time and therefore reduce the
possibility of polyspermy (Hunter, 1973).
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FIGURE 9.2 The journey of the spermatozoa from its origin to the fertilization site.
Functions, bicarbonate (HCO3-) concentration and pH in each section of the male and
female genital tract. The spermatozoon must travel first from its production site in the
seminiferous tubules of the testis, to the maturation site along the epididymis (caput and
corpus) and to its site of storage in the epididymis (cauda), where they encounter an acidic
environment with ~3–4 mmol/L of HCO3- and pH ~6.2. During ejaculation, spermatozoa
are emitted together with the seminal plasma (SP) formed by the cauda epididymal fluid
and accessory sex glands secretions. SP contains ~20 mmol/L of HCO3- and pH 7.3–7.8.
During natural mating, the ejaculate is deposited into the anterior cervix. From ejaculate,
insemination doses can also be obtained for artificial insemination that can be deposited in
anterior cervix or uterine body using the appropriate insemination catheter. Spermatozoa
move through the uterus by passive transport favored by myometrial contractions and
also active transport by sperm swimming. Billions of spermatozoa are deposited into the
female reproductive tract but only a limited number reach de utero-tubal junction (UTJ)
and the large majority of those do not even pass through it. In the UTJ and caudal isthmus,
spermatozoa attach to the oviductal epithelial cells (OECs) forming the sperm reservoir
(SR). The SR selects the spermatozoa, extends their lifespan, preserves their functionality
and storages them up until ovulation. The HCO3- concentration in SR is low (~10 mmol/L)
and pH slightly acid (pH 6.5) to allow spermatozoa quiescence. Once ovulation occurs, an
increase of HCO3- concentration (~25–90 mmol/L) and pH (~8.0) takes place that triggers
the hyperactivation of spermatozoa that allows its release from the SR. The spermatozoa
enter into the oviductal lumen in which they complete the capacitation process: the
transport to the fertilization site in ampullary-isthmic junction (AIJ), the preparation to
undergo the acrosome reaction (AR) to go through the egg vestments and the contact with
the oocytes and penetration.

The microenvironment of the SR favors the adhesion of competent

spermatozoa that seems to be mediated by molecules exposed on the
spermatozoa surface, such as lectin-like proteins of the rostral region of
the spermatozoa head. The OECs have the ability to select viable and
uncapacitated spermatozoa and protect them during a certain time window
from being damaged and capacitated until the ovulated egg arrives (Töpfer-
Petersen et al., 2002). However, not all spermatozoa are able to bind and
take part in the SR.
It has been reported in in vitro studies that OECs binds sperm in a
selective manner. For example, OECs only bind mature (Petrunkina et
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al., 2001), viable (Fazeli et al., 1999; Yeste et al., 2009), morphologically
normal (Fazeli et al., 1999; Waberski et al., 2006; Yeste et al., 2012),
uncapacitated (Fazeli et al., 1999; Petrunkina et al., 2001; Yeste et al.,
2009; López‑Úbeda et al., 2017) and fertile spermatozoa (Holt and Fazeli,
2010; López‑Úbeda et al., 2017), with non-fragmented chromatin (Ardón
et al., 2008), good osmoregulatory abilities (Petrunkina et al., 2007) and
that express certain surface proteins such as spermadhesin AQN1 (Talevi
and Gualtieri, 2010). All these strict requisites enable the selection of a
higher quality spermatozoa population with greater fertilizing potential,
and is the basis of the spermatozoa competition that has been speculated
by several authors in porcine and other mammalian species (Gualtieri and
Talevi, 2003; López‑Úbeda et al., 2017;).
It has even been suggested that the action of the lowest isthmus on
spermatozoa is more to delay the capacitation progress than promote it
(Smith, 1998; Rodriguez-Martinez et al., 2001). In the SR, spermatozoa
are quiescent, and capacitation is delayed until specific and partially
unknown signals around the time of ovulation that induce the spermatozoa
release. Spermatozoa release could be a combination of periovulatory
signals secreted by the oviduct itself or stimulated by cumulus-oocyte
complexes (COCs), follicular fluid (FF) and the presence of spermatozoa
in the oviduct (reviewed by Georgiou et al., 2007; Brüssow et al., 2008;
Hunter, 2008), in combination with the P4 levels in the periovulatory stage
(Bureau et al., 2002). Other oviductal factors such as Ca2+ concentration
in OF are also important to produce the state of hyperactivation in
spermatozoa that allows the bound spermatozoa to be released from OECs
(Flesch and Gadella, 2000; Gadella and Harrison, 2000; Petrunkina et
al., 2001). The power of the increased bend amplitude of the sperm tail
during hyperactivation can overcome spermatozoa-epithelial binding, and

it has been demonstrated that only hyperactivated spermatozoa are able to

detach from OECs (Suarez et al., 1992). And also, the modifications in the
spermatozoa surface (Suarez, 2016) and action of determined molecules,
as heparin, are essential to produce spermatozoa detachment from OECs

(Ardon et al., 2016).
9.4.2 THE SPERM CAPACITATION PROCESS IN THE OVIDUCT
Sperm capacitation is a complex and lengthy physiological process that
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involves a combination of sequential and parallel molecular changes
that affect both the spermatozoa head and tail (Suarez, 2007). It is a
critical point to the acquisition of the ability of the spermatozoa to
fertilize the oocyte.
Sperm capacitation includes many changes in sperm, such as alterations
in plasma membrane fluidity, protein tyrosine phosphorylation (Tyr-P),
and a change in motility pattern (hyperactive motility) and the ability to
undergo the AR. Some of these changes take place as the spermatozoa are
ejaculated but others require a longer period and develop along the female
genital tract, specifically in the oviduct. What seems clear is that all these
processes are triggered by HCO3- and regulated by protein kinase A (PKA)
in the soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC)/adenosine 3’:5’-cyclic monophos-
phate (cAMP) pathway (Visconti et al., 1995; Visconti, 2009) (Fig. 9.1).
One of the first events of capacitation is the activation of spermatozoa
motility by the action of HCO3- that stimulates the flagellum (García
Herreros et al., 2005), which involves HCO3- uptake from the extracellular
medium, producing a slight alkalinization of the spermatozoa cytosol. The
later events of capacitation take place in the oviduct, that involves first a
remodeling of plasma membrane architecture and cholesterol-efflux due
to the action of albumin and high-density lipoproteins present in the OF,
which increases membrane fluidity. The consequence of this increase in
membrane fluidity is membrane depolarization, which causes an increase
in spermatozoa Ca2+ permeability (Wennemuth et al., 2003). The sperma-
tozoa motility pattern also changes drastically (hyperactivation) and the
spermatozoon acquires the ability to fertilize the oocyte (Visconti, 2009).
Spermatozoa are firstly inactive in the SR and then activated and free
in the oviductal lumen moving towards the ovulated oocyte, ready for ZP
binding, undergoing the AR, and fertilizing the oocyte.

9.4.3 FERTILIZATION
Fertilization is the process in which two haploid gametes (spermatozoon

and oocyte) unite to form a genetically distinct individual. It comprises a

series of sequential and coordinated phases that result in a diploid zygote.
In porcine, fertilization takes places in the AIJ (Hunter, 1974) and begins
when the capacitated spermatozoa in the immediate vicinity of oocyte pass
through the cumulus oophorus and interact with the glycoproteins of the
ZP of the oocyte (Yanagimachi, 1994b; Kim et al., 2008). Spermatozoa-ZP
recognition and binding is mediated by carbohydrate interactions that can
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be divided into two phases:
i) Primary binding: the capacitated spermatozoon recognizes the ZP
mainly by apical surface spermadhesins and proacrosin and binds
to the ZP glycoproteins in a specific manner (Töpfer-Petersen et
al., 1985; Töpfer-Petersen and Henschen, 1987; Harris et al., 1994;
Töpfer-Petersen et al., 1998; 2008). This interaction triggers the
initiation of the AR, in which acrosomal enzymes are discharged into
the ZP (Yanagimachi, 1994b). The hyperactivated spermatozoon
then uses the impulse of flagellar beating to pass through the ZP.
ii) Secondary binding: the acrosome reacted spermatozoa expose a set
of intraacrosomal proteins with high affinity for ZP. Spermatozoa
become firmer attached to the ZP and definitely crosses it (Bleil et
al., 1988).
After spermatozoa penetration of the egg vestments, the acrosome-
reacted sperm goes through the perivitelline space and adheres its equatorial
region and fuses with the egg plasma membrane, the oolemma (sperm-egg
fusion). The cortical reaction then takes place, which results in changes to
the structure of the ZP and its proteins (Wolf, 1981). This converts the ZP
into a ‘hardened’ state, which helps to block polyspermy. This particular
phenomenon is of special interest in porcine because this species has a high
incidence of polyspermy under in vitro conditions (Funahashi et al., 2000).
The spermatozoon next penetrates the oocyte and introduces its nucleus
into the ooplasm (Yanagimachi, 1994b). Despite the continuous advance
in the knowledge of the physiology of gametes as well as their interaction,
there are still many aspects to be clarified to efficiently extrapolate the in
vivo environment in the oviduct to the in vitro conditions in the laboratory.
Many strategies and protocols have been carried out so far; however, the

efficiency obtaining quality embryos in vitro remains lower than that of

them in vivo counterparts.
9.5 IN VIVO VS. IN VITRO SPERM CAPACITATION AND

FERTILIZATION
The rapid advance of ARTs in mammals has led to reliable and standardized
protocols of obtaining zygotes and embryos in the laboratory with a
relatively reasonable success rate. Establishment of in vitro systems has
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been assisted and encouraged by the ready availability of protocols for
preparation of gametes, chemically-defined culture media, disposable
plastic dishes and tubes, and computer-controlled incubators set to a
predetermine gas concentration, humidity and temperature (Hunter and
Rodriguez-Martinez, 2002). However, conditions applied fruitfully in
vitro may not be closely representative of those found in vivo, and levels
of success in vitro seldom match those found in vivo (reviewed by Hunter
and Rodriguez-Martinez, 2002).
The population of spermatozoa selected or capacitated in vitro prob-
ably is different from the small proportion of competent spermatozoa that
would reach the site of fertilization in vivo close to the time of ovulation.
As an example, a droplet of culture medium containing spermatozoa and
COCs represents, strictly speaking, a post-ovulatory milieu, but is probably
much different from the preparatory milieu to which gametes are exposed
in vivo (Rodríguez-Martínez et al., 2005). The current conditions in porcine
IVF are still far from optimal since none has managed to reduce the unac-
ceptably high incidence of polyspermy in this species. In vitro techniques
have resulted in pregnancies and live offspring through embryo transfer
in multiple mammalian species. For decades, research in this field has
increased the knowledge in basic science about physiology of gametes and
their interaction, even in the complex uterine environment. However, while
good performance of these techniques has been achieved in some mamma-
lian species such as bovine or murine, the results obtained in porcine so far
are not comparable to the in vivo output. In pigs, differences between in vivo
and in vitro environment in which sperm capacitation and fertilization take
place could be a determinant of the low success in obtaining potentially
viable zygotes. A summary of the main differences between in vivo and in
vivo sperm capacitation and fertilization are shown in Table 9.1.

TABLE 9.1 Differences Between In Vivo and In Vitro Sperm Capacitation and Fertilization in Mammals, with Special Attention to Porcine
Species.
Parameter/Factor In vivo (*) In vitro (†) Reference
Source of spermatozoa Ejaculate Epididymis or ejaculate * Yanagimachi, 1994b
† Matás et al., 2010
Spermatozoa selection Backflow, phagocytosis by Washes with albumin or through * García-Vázquez et al., 2015; Holt and Fazeli,
and capacitation neutrophils and formation colloids and sperm pelleting, 2010; Taylor et al., 2008; Matthijs et al., 2003;
of sperm reservoir (SR) filtration with Sephadex gel or † Matás et al., 2011; Holt et al., 2010; Matás et
glass wool al., 2003
Sperm capacitation During the transport Plastic tubes and dishes in * Yanagimachi, 1994a
site through the female computer-controlled incubators † Hunter and Rodriguez-Martinez, 2002
reproductive tract set to predetermine gas phase,
humidity and temperature
Sperm capacitation Uterine and oviductal fluids Chemically defined media * Rodriguez-Martinez, 2007.
media (UF and OF) † Rath et al., 1999; Abeydeera and Day, 1997;
Mattioli et al., 1988
The Journey of the Porcine Spermatozoa from Its Origin
Spermatozoa response Progressive and sequential. High proportion of partially- * Suarez, 2007
to capacitation Heterogeneity among reacted spermatozoa † reviewed by Funahashi, 2003
spermatozoa subpopulations
Timing of sperm 2–3 h depending on the Initiated in max. 60 s. The * Harrison, 1996; Hunter and Dziuk, 1968
capacitation place of deposition latter signs occur after 60 min † Rath et al., 1999; Harrison, 2004

incubation
Source of matured Follicle (ovulated oocytes) Follicle (ovulated oocytes) or in * Yanagimachi, 1994a
oocytes vitro matured oocytes in plastic † Hunter and Rodriguez-Martinez, 2002
dishes
261
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TABLE 9.1 (Continued) 262
Cumulus oophorus Present Present or absent * Yanagimachi, 1994a
† Coy et al., 1993c
Oocytes and zygotes Thick Thin * Funahashi et al., 2001; Wang et al., 1998
ZP thickness † Funahashi et al., 2001
Spermatozoa and - From 15 s to 18 h † Almiñana et al., 2008; Coy et al., 2008b; Matás
oocytes coincubation et al., 2003; Coy et al., 1993a
time
Spermatozoa From 30–60 million From tens of thousands to * Waberski et al., 2008
concentration for (AI) to hundreds of millions spermatozoa/ml † Ballester et al., 2014; Almiñana et al., 2008;
insemination millions (natural mating) Coy et al., 1993b
spermatozoa/ml
Capacitating and Dynamic Static * Rodriguez-Martinez, 2007
fertilizing environment † Nagai, 1994
Fertilization site Ampullary-isthmic junction 4-wells multidish, microdrops, * Yanagimachi, 1994a
(AIJ) caps of tubes, straws, † Ferraz et al., 2017; Sano et al., 2010; Clark et
microchannels, microfluidic al., 2005; Li et al., 2003; Funahashi and Nagai,
sorters, 3-D OECs cultures 2000
Fertilization media Periovulatory oviductal TCM-199, TALP, BO, TBM * Yanagimachi, 1994b

fluid (OF) † Coy and Romar, 2002; Coy et al., 2002
Regulation and Oviductal and follicular Technical and human factors * Hunter, 1990
synchronization of factors † Hunter and Rodriguez-Martinez, 2002
environment
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TABLE 9.1 (Continued)

Environmental ~10 mmol/L in isthmus and 25 mmol/L * Rodriguez-Martinez, 2007; Rodriguez-Martinez
HCO3- concentration 25–90 mmol/L in AIJ et al., 1990
† Parrish, 2014; Yoshioka et al., 2008; Bedu-
Addo et al., 2007; Coy et al., 2002; Rath et al.,
1999; Quinn, 1995
Environmental pH ~8.0 7.4 –8.0 * Rodriguez-Martinez, 2007
† Matás et al., 2010; Abeydeera and Day, 1997;
Coy et al., 1993b; Soriano-Úbeda et al., 2017
Biofluids presence Uterine or oviductal fluids Uterine, oviductal or follicular * Leese et al., 2001; Nichol et al., 1992; Leese,
(UF or OF) fluids (UF, OF or FF) 1988
incorporated to the media † Cánovas et al., 2017; Coy and Avilés, 2010;
Coy et al., 2008b; Coy et al., 2002; Kim et al.,
1997; Kim et al., 1996; Funahashi and Day, 1993;
Nagai and Moor, 1990
The Journey of the Porcine Spermatozoa from Its Origin

263
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Spermatozoa fertility usually refers to the ability of spermatozoa to

fertilize oocytes, either in vivo or in vitro. In most mammalian species
including porcine, spermatozoa acquire fertilization ability once the reach
the corpus epididymis or proximal segment of the cauda epididymis

(Yanagimachi, 1994a). In in vivo conditions, both in natural mating and
in AI, spermatozoa entering the uterus are ejaculated spermatozoa; that
is, spermatozoa that have had contact with the SP. There are also studies
in porcine in which sows were inseminated with epididymal spermatozoa
(fresh or frozen-thawed) but fertilization and conception rates and litter size
after AI were much lower than those obtained with ejaculated spermatozoa
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(Holtz and Smidt, 1976; Okazaki et al., 2012). in vitro, two sources of
spermatozoa can be used—ejaculated or epididymal—depending on the
objective and the technical constraints. In fact, there are numerous studies
in which both ejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa have been used and
compared (Matás et al., 2010). The fertility and response to treatments
usually is variable in ejaculated spermatozoa both within and between
individual boars and ejaculates, probably due to the variable effects of
SP components on the different subpopulations of spermatozoa. In this
sense, epididymal spermatozoa tend to be more ‘stable’ in their response
to selection or capacitation treatments (Matás et al., 2010). It has been
reported that epididymal spermatozoa in vitro can reach capacitation and
fertilize oocytes much easier than ejaculated spermatozoa (Yanagimachi,
1994b), but this depends on the specific treatments used for sperm selection
and capacitation.
Over years, different types of in vitro spermatozoa selection techniques
have been developed with the main objective to eliminate the SP and
decapacitating factors, residues of diluents used for spermatozoa preserva-
tion, or certain contaminating particles. Many of these selection methods
involve the centrifugation (washing with albumin or through colloids and
sperm pelleting) or the use of a non-physiological composition of selec-
tion media (for example, spermatozoa filtration with Sephadex gel or glass
wool) that select spermatozoa by their physical characteristics, but some
of these procedures can produce cellular damage (Holt et al., 2010; Matás
et al., 2011).
Once spermatozoa are released from SR and enter the oviductal lumen,
they are exposed to the specific and dynamic milieu of the oviduct, which
due to its particular temperature, oxygen and pH provides a suitable
environment to promote sperm capacitation and fertilization (De Lamirande

et al., 1997). in vivo, sperm capacitation occurs during the transport through
the female reproductive tract, is progressive and sequential due to the
dynamic environments encountered by the spermatozoa from the site of
semen deposition to the site of fertilization in terms of biofluid composition,

pH, temperature, percentage of oxygen, etc. The diversity and heterogeneity
in responsiveness among spermatozoa subpopulations allow different grades
of sperm capacitation in each uterine section. The specific composition of UF
and OF in the periovulatory stage is still partially unknown, which makes it
difficult to mimic in vitro. In vitro sperm capacitation is conducted in plastic
tubes or dishes, in static systems, in chemically defined media of differing
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complexity but limited and fixed composition and physical characteristics,
probably much different from that encountered in UF and OF. One of the
main consequences of these static systems is that under in vitro conditions
most of spermatozoa are capacitated simultaneously (Rodriguez-Martinez,
2007). In vitro capacitation can occur by incubating spermatozoa at
physiological temperature of 38.5ºC, in the presence of HCO3- and Ca2+,
with albumin as a protein source, and with energy substrate molecules such
as glucose, pyruvate and lactate, in a balanced salt solution in which slightly
alkaline pH is maintained, normally at 7.4 (Harrison, 1996; Visconti and
Kopf, 1998; Watson and Green, 2000).
It is difficult to specify the exact timing of the events that take place
during the sperm capacitation process. Under in vivo conditions, sperm
capacitation could last 2 or 3 hours, depending on the place of semen
deposition (Hunter and Dziuk, 1968; Harrison, 1996). What seems clear
is that OF modulates the rate of sperm capacitation events in vivo, and
probably also when it is added to an in vitro system. Once spermatozoa
are sequentially exposed to UF and OF, these fluids should be able to regu-
late the rate of the process (Rodriguez-Martinez, 2007). However, it has
been described that in vitro capacitation is initiated within a few seconds
or minutes after spermatozoa come into contact with a HCO3--enriched
capacitating medium because HCO3- rapidly stimulates sAC (maximum
within 60 s) that triggers PKA-dependent protein phosphorylation
cascade (Harrison, 2004; Visconti, 2009). One of the first signals of that
is the activation of spermatozoa motility, but also a scrambling of plasma
membrane phospholipids that produces an increase in plasma membrane
fluidity (Harrison and Miller, 2000). Significantly later, the membrane
fluidity increases again but by the action of the presence of albumin in
the incubation medium, which removes or redistributes the cholesterol

in the spermatozoa plasma membrane (Flesch et al., 2001). Another late

effect (>60 min) of HCO3- in in vitro sperm capacitation is the activation of
tyrosine kinases and the subsequent Tyr-P (Visconti, 2009).
The process of fertilization in vivo is precisely and strictly regulated and

synchronized. In the oviduct, oviductal and follicular factors coordinate
gamete interaction and function (Hunter, 1990). Only few capacitated
spermatozoa reach the COCs and undergo the AR during passage through
the cumulus (Mattioli et al., 1998) or ZP (Cummins and Yanagimachi,
1982). However, in vitro sperm capacitation and fertilization provides
a static system controlled by technical (incubators, thermostats, gas
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infusion pumps, etc.) and human factors (time of manipulation of gametes,
maintenance of asepsis, contamination, abrupt fluctuations of temperature,
etc.) (Hunter and Rodriguez-Martinez, 2002) that are far from resembling
the dynamic system to which gametes are exposed in vivo (Nagai, 1994;
Visconti, 2009). In IVF, there is no single medium commonly used by
researches, but what seems clear is the importance of Ca2+ availability
in the medium and its uptake by oocytes and spermatozoa. Currently,
conditions used for IVF differ enormously from those in vivo but all the
in vivo parameters should first be determined to be efficiently mimicked
and applied in vitro. The strict control by the female reproductive tract
of spermatozoa functions and capacitation state enables, in physiological
conditions in the oviduct, monospermic penetration of oocytes in porcine
of around 95% of total fertilizations (reviewed by Funahashi, 2003). The
strategies employed by the uterus to reduce the number of spermatozoa
that reach the site of fertilization, select the most suitable spermatozoa for
fertilization and modulate their state of activation-quiescence-capacitation
are still largely unknown. As previously described, the mechanisms that
control the number of porcine spermatozoa that are fertilization competent
are well developed in vivo and effectively reduce polyspermy, but the
complexity of these mechanisms make it difficult to reproduce in vitro
(reviewed by Funahashi, 2003). Thus, it seems nearly impossible to obtain
the high rate of monospermy in pigs in vitro that has been achieved in
other mammals. In fact, it has been proposed that polyspermy is the
bottleneck to improvements in porcine IVF and this has been related to
the induction of partial AR of boar spermatozoa in IVF media and thus
to the use of a highly non-physiological number of spermatozoa which
are simultaneously capacitated and ready to fertilize. The percentage of
polyspermy in vitro is directly related to the number of spermatozoa used,

but, unfortunately, simply reducing the number of spermatozoa per oocyte

not only does not address the problem of polyspermy but decreases the
penetration rate. The current conditions of preparation of the gametes prior
to porcine IVF are still far from optimal since none of them has managed
to reduce the unacceptably high incidence of polyspermy in this species.
One strategy is to modulate the in vitro sperm capacitation to impede the
simultaneous presence of massive numbers of capacitated spermatozoa
around the oocytes at the time of fertilization.
On the other hand, polyspermy has been also related to the signifi-
cant differences in organization and ultrastructure of ZP proteins in pig
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between in vitro and in vivo matured and fertilized oocytes (Coy et al.,
2008a). ZP of ovulated oocytes has a rather thick mesh-like fibrillar
network structure whereas in in vitro matured oocytes the ZP is more
compacted and smoother. After the contact with spermatozoa, in vitro
matured oocytes undergo a delayed or incomplete zona reaction far from
the complete polyspermy-blocking reaction that takes place in vivo in the
oviduct (Funahashi, 2003). Polyspermic penetration in porcine oocytes
also occurs in vivo; however, there are physiological mechanisms, many of
them unknown, that modulate this incidence. Additional macromolecules
have been reported in the ZP of ovulated pig oocytes (Hedrick et al.,
1987), such as oestrogen-dependent oviductal glycoproteins, which are
secreted into the oviductal lumen (Brown and Cheng, 1986; Coy et al.,
2008a). With the current media used in the IVF laboratories, it has not
yet been possible to reproduce this phenomenon. During final maturation,
the ZP of in vivo matured oocytes adds oviductal glycoproteins, which
allows the change of conformation in the inner ZP necessary to undergo an
appropriate ZP reaction when fertilized. Changes in ovulated oocytes that
are conferred by OF seem to produce ZP resistance to digestion by pronase
(Wang et al., 1998); this ZP resistance can be increased in in vitro matured
oocytes by exposing them to OF (Coy et al., 2008a).
Despite the development of different spermatozoa-oocyte co-incubation
times (Coy et al., 1993a; Matás et al., 2003; Almiñana et al., 2008; Coy
et al., 2008b), spermatozoa concentration for insemination (Coy et al.,
1993b; Almiñana et al., 2008; Ballester et al., 2014), presence of the
cumulus oophorus (Coy et al., 1993c), sperm capacitation methods (Matás
et al., 2003) and innovative IVF protocols in which gametes are physically
separated (Funahashi and Nagai, 2000; Li et al., 2003; Clark et al., 2005;
Sano et al., 2010), polyspermy in porcine IVF is not yet solved. Moreover,

there are numerous studies attempting to improve IVF by developing

defined capacitation and fertilization media for pigs (Mattioli et al., 1988;
Abeydeera and Day, 1997; Rath et al., 1999) and comparing their efficiency,
such as TCM-199, Tyrode’s albumin lactate pyruvate (TALP), Brackett-

Oliphant solution (BO) or Tris-buffered medium (TBM) (reviewed by Coy
et al., 2002; Coy and Romar, 2002). Other variables studied have been
the spermatozoa concentration used for insemination, coincubation time,
source of spermatozoa or volume of coculture medium, but there is a lack
of conclusive results and standardized protocols in porcine (reviewed by
Coy and Romar, 2002).
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Therefore, more studies are needed to deepen the knowledge of the
oviductal microenvironment in which porcine capacitation and fertilization
take place in vivo to try to mimic them in vitro. At present, the main
objectives of the research carried out in our laboratories are aimed at
improving media and conditions of culture, the incorporation of biofluids
and the development of IVF devices in which gamete functionality is more
similar to physiological conditions (Cánovas et al., 2017; Soriano-Úbeda
et al., 2017). Some of these factors, still to be optimized, such as HCO3-
concentration, pH, use of biofluids and IVF devices that allow much more
physiological contact between gametes, are reviewed below.
9.5.1 BICARBONATE (HCO3-) CONCENTRATION
HCO3- has been identified in vitro as a key capacitating agent that promotes
lipid rearrangement-disorder in the spermatozoa plasma membrane that
initiates the capacitation. It acts by activating the sAC/cAMP-dependent
pathway (Visconti et al., 1995). Sperm capacitation in the isthmus is
initiated under a concentration of HCO3- around 10 mmol/L (Rodriguez-
Martinez et al., 1990) and spermatozoa are progressively exposed to
higher HCO3- as they ascend to the fertilization site. in vivo, the number
of capacitated spermatozoa at one particular time and place of the oviduct
would be low. The capacitated state is transient and irreversible in vivo.
So, there should be a continuous replacement of capacitated, short-lived
spermatozoa leading to low spermatozoa number per area at one time,
ensuring the availability of capacitated spermatozoa for an extended
period between spermatozoa deposition and ovulation (Rodriguez-
Martinez, 2007). However, far from these dynamic environments that

spermatozoa go through and the progressive and sequential events in

capacitation of spermatozoa subpopulations in vivo, currently most of
the in vitro capacitation and fertilization protocols result in the majority
of spermatozoa being capacitated and available to fertilize at the same

time. The most common media for in vitro sperm capacitation and IVF
contains a fix concentration of 25 mmol/L of HCO3-, whatever the origin
of the spermatozoa (epididymal or ejaculated) and the treatments received
(dilution in an extender, refrigeration, selection process) (Quinn, 1995;
Rath et al., 1999; Coy et al., 2002; Bedu-Addo et al., 2007; Yoshioka et
al., 2008; Parrish, 2014). HCO3-, as a key effector in sperm capacitation,
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needs to be adjusted in the medium in an attempt to produce more physi-
ological sperm capacitation and combat the problem of polyspermy. For
that purpose, some authors proposed reduction of HCO3- concentration in
the media for porcine in vitro sperm capacitation and fertilization to 15
mmol/L. This concentration activates the porcine sperm capacitation but
with slower progression, which seems to be related with increased rates of
monospermy in the IVF (Soriano-Úbeda et al., 2019).
9.5.2 pH
In addition to be a capacitating effector, HCO3- acts to buffer the reproduc-

tive environments in which gametes are found. One of the consequences
of the exposure of spermatozoa to HCO3- is the alkalinization of the
intracellular fluid, which in the oviduct activates spermatozoa motility and
triggers the cascade of molecular events of capacitation (Visconti, 2009).
The pH in the oviductal lumen, due to the production of HCO3- in the
OECs, greatly increases in the periovulatory stage, reaching around pH
8.0 at the site of fertilization at the time of the encounter between gametes
(Rodriguez-Martinez, 2007). However, media commonly used for in vitro
sperm capacitation and IVF have a fixed pH of 7.4 (Coy et al., 1993a,b,c;
Abeydeera and Day, 1997; Matás et al., 2010). It is known that most of
biological processes in organisms are regulated by pH (Lodish et al., 2000),
and mammalian capacitation, fertilization and polyspermy blocking could
be some of them. For this reason, one of the plausible strategies to improve
IVF output is increasing the pH of the medium (although maintaining its
concentration of HCO3-) to 8.0 to be more like the physiological pH at the
place of fertilization (Soriano-Úbeda et al., 2017).

9.5.3 BIOFLUIDS
As discussed, under in vitro conditions, the pattern of sperm capacitation

and fertilization is not similar to the situation in vivo. The media used
in laboratories is not similar to OF and there is not a single medium
commonly used in all laboratories that allows standardization of IVF in
porcine (Coy et al., 2002). Chemically defined media are currently used
for these techniques, with more or less complex composition based in
salts, sugars, proteins such as albumin and other components. However,
the media composition has not been able to equate with OF, as it is still
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unknown. In order to increase the performance of IVF in pigs, several
protocols have been developed that include OF in the medium (Coy et
al., 2010; Cánovas et al., 2017) although the lack of knowledge of OF
composition remains a handicap in achieving consistency.
The effect of OF on sperm has been described to prolong survival and
delay destabilization processes at the plasmalemma, even during capacita-
tion, and resulting hyperactivation (reviewed by Rodriguez-Martinez et
al., 2016). Briefly, OF seems to modulate spermatozoa functionality and
capacitation process. Moreover, the intraluminal periovulatory OF is the
optimal medium to transport gametes allowing the interaction between
them and also to promote early embryonic development (Yanagimachi,
1994b). Periovulatory OF is formed by specific OECs secretions and by
transudation of blood serum, but OF differs from serum in terms of ionic
composition, osmolarity, pH and macromolecular content (Leese, 1988;
Nichol et al., 1992). Regional differences also exist in the composition of
OF and this seems to be related with the process of gamete preparation for
fertilization (Leese et al., 2001). There are also differences in OF composi-
tion by the mere fact of gametes presence (Georgiou et al., 2007).
Incubation of spermatozoa with undefined oviductal components before
or during IVF as has been done for OECs, has demonstrated that OF or FF
improve IVF (Kim et al., 1997; Funahashi and Day, 1993; Nagai and Moor,
1990). In addition, specific oviductal components such as glycoproteins
(Kouba et al., 2000; Coy et al., 2008a; Algarra et al., 2016), GAGs such
as HA (Suzuki et al., 2000) or proteins such as osteopontin (Hao et al.,
2006) have shown beneficial effects. In vitro, the preincubation of porcine
oocytes in OF from early-luteal phase increased ZP hardening and pronase
digestion time, which has been linked with higher monospermy rate (Kim
et al., 1996; Coy et al., 2002; Coy et al., 2008a; Coy and Avilés, 2010). It has

been described that the inclusion of OF in IVF systems reduces polyspermy,

probably by preventing the spermatozoa AR (Kim et al., 1997), regulating
the capacitation rate and making it slower before ovulation and faster after
it (Rodriguez-Martinez et al., 1998; Coy et al., 2010; Avilés, 2011).

Other difference between in vivo and in vitro interactions between porcine
gametes is that many IVF protocols remove the cumulus cells that surround
the oocyte. In these cases, the secretory products of cumulus cells derived
from their metabolism are absent in many of the current IVF systems. In
pigs, the presence of cumulus cells has been shown to improve fertility
and monospermy ratios (Coy et al., 1993c). In bovine, granulosa cells
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obtained from the follicular wall increase the fertilization rate and decrease
polyspermy (Fukui and Ono, 1989). The FF, which is a product of the
follicular wall, is also important in the oviductal milieu as during ovulation
it is poured into the oviduct and forms part of the OF. In porcine, the effect
of including FF in the pre-fertilization media for spermatozoa incubation
has been studied and during IVF results in a reduction of polyspermy and
number of spermatozoa bound to the ZP (Funahashi and Day, 1993). Some
substances existing in the FF and OF and also produced by cumulus cells
play a significant role in sperm capacitation and survival, as hyaluronic acid
(HA). HA from OF and FF can modulate sperm capacitation and promote
sperm survival (Rodriguez-Martinez, 2007), and HA from cumulus cells
promote the AR close to the oocyte (Suzuki et al., 2002).
There is a large gap in knowledge of the exact composition of biofluids,
but what seems clear is that despite the use of chemically defined culture
media has not been able to match the results of biofluids in vivo or the
addition of biofluids to IVF systems. More studies are needed to analyze
in depth the composition of biofluids with the objective to establish a
chemically defined culture medium or system for sperm capacitation and
IVF that more closely resembles the physiological environment.
9.5.4 IN VITRO FERTILIZATION (IVF) DEVICES
The most used systems for IVF in porcine have been 4-well dishes and
microdrops, but with the objective to mimic the strict spermatozoa selec-
tion process that takes place in the female genital tract and to allow the
establishment of competition between spermatozoa, several methods and
devices have been developed: IVF by climbing-over-a-wall (Funahashi and

Nagai, 2000; Soriano-Úbeda et al., 2017), using biomimetic microfluidic

technology (Clark et al., 2005), IVF in straws (Li et al., 2003), applying
modified swim-up for spermatozoa selection (Park et al., 2009), using a
microfluidic spermatozoa sorter (Sano et al., 2010) or 3-D OECs culture

systems for IVF and embryo production (reviewed by Ferraz et al., 2017).
Most of these methods reduce the number of spermatozoa that contact
the oocytes, allowing a certain selection of spermatozoa population and
expression of their heterogeneity in terms of motility, capacitation state
and fertility. Many of them can include biofluids that can be replaced over
time to mimic the dynamic oviductal environment in terms of composition
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of proteins, hormones and other molecules, and they even have different
compartments for male and female gametes and/or OECs. Normally, there
are methods or devices in which gametes, female and male, are physically
distant from each other and spermatozoa must cross an artificial obstacle to
reach the oocytes, more similar to the situation in vivo. However, none of
them has managed to eliminate the problem of polyspermy under in vitro
conditions in the pig. Many studies are currently underway to develop
new devices in which spermatozoa are guided to the oocytes through the
so-called ‘taxis’: chemo-, rheo- and thermotaxis. In each one of them,
spermatozoa are attracted by a different stimulus gradient: chemical, fluid
flow or temperature, respectively (revised by Pérez-Cerezales et al., 2015).
9.6 CONCLUDING REMARKS
From the studies reviewed, major research progress has been made in
reproductive physiology and technology in swine. However, attempts
to improve in vitro reproduction in pigs have not been enough. Lack of
knowledge of many factors involved in in vitro sperm capacitation and
fertilization and its regulation could contribute to the abnormally high
incidence of polyspermy in this species. The use of simple in vitro systems
of pre-treatment of gametes and IVF have been well demonstrated to be
valid to analyze the complex processes of fertilization and evaluate several
sperm, oocyte and embryo parameters. However, they suffer from serious
limitation for the in vitro production of embryos due to fact that the avail-
able capacitation media produce a large percentage of capacitated sperma-
tozoa that ready for fertilize at the same time. The direction in which we
must advance is to allow oocytes to express their natural ability to block
polyspermy, with more studies on the physiology of gametes, as well as
with the development of new strategies for modulation of sperm capacita-

tion. To do this, it would seem logical to first adjust the known parameters
involved in in vitro sperm capacitation and fertilization processes that are
far from their counterparts in vivo and that could firmly establish the basis
of these techniques in the porcine species.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors would like to thank the Spanish Ministry of Economy and
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Competitiveness (MINECO), the European Regional Development Fund
(FEDER), Grants AGL2012-40180-C03-01-02 and AGL2015-66341-R)
for the support and Dr. Lawrence Reynolds and Jordana Portugal Sena
Lopes for their critical revision and assistance with the language.
KEYWORDS
•• porcine
•• spermatozoa
•• capacitation
•• bicarbonate
•• pH
•• oviductal fluid
•• in vitro fertilization
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CHAPTER 10
Reproductive Biotechnologies Applied

to Artificial Insemination in Swine
FRANCISCO ALBERTO GARCÍA-VÁZQUEZ1,2,*, CHIARA LUONGO1,
GABRIELA GARRAPPA1,3, and ERNESTO RODRÍGUEZ TOBÓN1
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1
“Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca),
2
Murcia, Spain
3
Institute of Animal Research of the Semi-Arid Chaco (IIACS),
Agricultural Research Center (CIAP), National Institute of
Agricultural Technology (INTA), Tucumán, Argentina
*
ABSTRACT
Artificial insemination (AI) is the most widespread reproductive tech-

nique used in porcine. This chapter provides firstly relevant informa-
tion about the workflow involved in porcine AI, from the collection of
boar ejaculate and seminal doses preparation to the sperm deposition in
the female by AI devices and spermatozoa journey toward the oocyte.
Secondly, we summarize new issues and future perspectives trying to
increase the porcine AI efficiency, such as new fertility biomarkers,
improving the composition of extenders used for semen dilution,
or studying new methods for sperm selection as the use of magnetic
nanoparticles to remove damaged spermatozoa.

10.1 INTRODUCTION
Advances in reproductive biotechnologies have allowed the increase

of efficiency in animal production in several species. Artificial insemi-

nation (AI) has been one of the most successful applied reproductive
biotechnologies since its implementation several decades ago (reviewed
by Soriano-Úbeda et al. 2013). In the case of porcine species, AI
(porcine AI, pAI) is routinely used in most of the farms (Riesenbeck,
2011), which among other factors, has allowed to place pork production
as one of the most important meat industries worldwide (Knox, 2014;
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Zhang et al. 2018).
The advantages of the pAI are innumerable (Knox, 2016), although to
achieve considerable success, multiple factors must be properly geared. AI
methodology per se is a simple technique which requires scarce material to
perform, just a single plastic tube ending in a tip that fits within the cervix.
AI device has changed slightly through the years, but these changes has
also considerably improved its effectiveness (i.e. deeper deposition which
reduces the number of sperm per seminal dose increasing the number
of seminal doses produced per boar) (García-Vázquez et al. 2019a;
Llamas-Lopez et al. 2019). However, AI is not only the process in which
spermatozoa are deposited in the female genital tract. The great numbers
reached in porcine reproductive performance (farrowing rates, litter sizes)
in the last years are attributable to the improvement of different factors
(Knox, 2016) (Fig. 10.1). Boars are one of the main pieces in pAI puzzle
because they support the initial step in seminal doses production. Boars
are usually confined in facilities known as AI-centers or boar studs. Then,
sanitary status, genetic, semen collection training or housing in AI-centers
are essential factors to contemplate for proficient semen production. After
ejaculate collection, the processing of semen starts which includes an initial
dilution in an extender, subsequently quality spermatozoa evaluation and
packing in bags or bottles for further conservation and/or distribution. Once
seminal doses are prepared, the other important piece to complete the pAI
puzzle is the female. Even after having the best semen, it is useless if it is
deposited into a female without an optimal moment of estrus. So, estrus
detection and physiology knowledge of oestrus cycle are key factors for a
successful AI. Finally, after seminal dose deposition, spermatozoa start a
complicated journey in search of the oocyte. During insemination (natural
or artificial) millions of spermatozoa are deposited but only a few of them

Reproductive Biotechnologies Applied to Artificial Insemination in Swine 285
are able to reach the place of fertilization (Tummaruk and Tienthai, 2010).
Most of the mechanisms involved in this drastic reduction of spermatozoa
within the female genital tract are still unknown.
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FIGURE 10.1 Scheme of the phases involved in porcine Artificial Insemination (pAI).
Although several reproductive biotechnologies associated with AI

process have currently been applied in porcine, others are still under
study and researchers are constantly trying to solve the reproductive
porcine industry demands. Nowadays, some of these new investigations
in pAI seems far to be applied but surely, they are the base to continue
and increase the efficiency of this methodology even more in the future.
These and other factors are going to be treated more extensively along the
following sections.
10.2 THE ROLE OF THE BOAR IN ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
Over the years, the development of reproductive technologies has permitted

an increase of farm size and the birth of specialized AI-centers (Knox,

2014). This scenario has allowed to raise the reproductive performance
and, in consequence, the economic impact on productive efficiency of pAI
(reviewed by Knox, 2016). AI-centers are in charge of producing seminal
doses with enough quality to be used in AI programs. Then, seminal doses
produced from a single ejaculate of a boar allow inseminating several sows
(Maes et al., 2011). The total number of seminal doses generated varies
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depending on the type of AI used, cervical (CAI) or post-cervical artificial
insemination (PCAI), because of the different number of sperm and volume
needed. In general terms, the CAI-doses are composed of 3 × 109 sperm
cells in a final volume of 90 ml, while the PCAI-doses are composed of
1.5 × 109 sperm cells in a final volume of 45 ml (Hernández-Caravaca et
al., 2012; Bortolozzo et al., 2015). The number of doses obtained annually
per boar is about 2000 for CAI method (Mezalira et al., 2005), and conse-
quently approximately the double of seminal doses in the case of PCAI.
The quality of an ejaculate depends on multiple factors including
animal welfare, environmental temperature, light exposure, feeding or
housing. These conditions have been improved through the specializa-
tion of AI-centers, by using automatic systems for temperature, feeding
and watering control (Knox, 2016). Moreover, the design of AI-centers
is also focused on preventing the entry of pathogens. In this sense,
AI-centers have two entries, one for vehicles and other for pedestrians.
Once inside, each AI-center is divided into different areas such as an
isolation area for boar (where health checks are performed), a boar
housing area, a semen collection area, and a laboratory, in which semen
samples are prepared, stored and shipped. Likewise, it is important to
maintain a high level of hygiene since people can be carriers of diseases
(Waberski and Weitze, 2010).
When new boars arrive at an AI-center, they should be isolated for 40–45
days before contact with other animals in order to check their health status
(Althouse, 2007). Once this time has elapsed, boars are housed individually
in pens (Knox, 2016), allowing visual contact and smell with other animals
(Lopez-Rodriguez et al., 2017). The pens have an available area per boar of
at least 6 m2 according to the European legislation (Commission Directive
2001/93/EC). The type of boar housing can influence boar health and it
must be safe and allow easy handling of the animals (Althouse, 2007).
In order to enter the collection rotation, 7 months old boars are subjected
to a training period and selected based on good health and semen quality
(Bortolozzo et al., 2015; Knox, 2016). The frequency of collection can influ-
ence the production and quality of ejaculate, and in this sense a maximum
of 3 times in two weeks is considered optimal (Knox, 2016). Therefore,
a period of rest between extractions is necessary to complete spermatozoa
maturation within the epididymis (Pruneda et al., 2005).
The semen collection is performed in specific facilities that allow the
operator to safely handle the boar (Althouse, 2007). A collection dummy
is placed within the pen, equipped with two lateral supports on which the
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boar can position the front legs. Moreover, vertical galvanized pipes on
2 or 3 sides of the perimeter of the collection pen can be placed allowing
the operator to escape easily when necessary (Althouse, 2007). Apart from
the traditional pen, the “Reicks collection pen” is the most used collection
method in AI-centers. This method is similar to the traditional collection
facility, but with an additional small pen for the operator. By this way, the
operator can handle the boar standing outside by a sliding gate during the
collection process (Levis and Reicks, 2005). Additionally, some AI-centers
have a warm-up pen to aid with sexual stimulation of the boar. Then, boars
will require less time to mount the dummy and for semen output (Althouse,
2007). Once the boar is situated on the dummy, the process of semen
collection starts. But before explaining the methods of semen collection
it is necessary to talk briefly about the swine ejaculate. The whole boar
ejaculate is about 200–300 ml with a concentration higher than 30 x 109
sperm cells per ml (Rodríguez-Martínez et al., 2005). Apart from sperm
cells, the ejaculate is composed of seminal plasma (SP). The ejaculation
can last up to 15 min divided in three fractions. The first fraction, called
pre-spermatic fraction (10–15 ml), contains secretions from urethral and
bulbourethral glands and prostate. It is characterized by the absence of
sperm cells (or very poor number) and a high bacterial count, whereby it
is discarded (Maes et al., 2011; Lopez-Rodriguez et al., 2017). The second
fraction (70–100 ml), the spermatic-rich fraction, contains the majority
of spermatozoa (80–90%) and SP, derived from testes, epididymis, and
accessory reproductive glands (Garner and Hafez, 2000). The third fraction
(120–200 ml) is called post-spermatic rich fraction and contains few
sperm cells and more SP than the spermatic-rich fraction. As indicated,
SP represents an important part of the whole ejaculate in porcine species.
This male biological fluid is a complex milieu in which spermatozoa are

immersed during the ejaculation and is mainly composed by inorganic

and organic components, such as carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids and
proteins (Sancho and Vilagran, 2013). Through the ejaculation, a gelatinous
substance (called tapioca) is produced by bulbourethral glands, especially

during the emission of the third fraction. Tapioca acts as a plug in the cervix
of the sow during natural insemination, to seal the cervix reducing ejaculate
backflow (Knox, 2001).
Returning to the methods of semen collection, these can be performed
mainly by two methods (Fig. 10.2): 1) the manual method or also called
gloved-hand technique; and 2) the automatic technique. Nowadays, the
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gloved-hand method is the main technique of choice in AI-centers (Knox et
al., 2008). In any case, hygiene rules should be followed to avoid bacterial
contamination (Lopez-Rodriguez et al., 2017). For this reason, the initial
steps are the same for both methods and consist of cleaning the penis and
the area surrounding the preputial orifice. During this process, the operator’s
hand is covered by a plastic glove to manipulate the boar penis, then is
removed after cleaning (Althouse et al., 2000; Aneas et al., 2008). Then
the operator can proceed with one of semen collection methods. During the
gloved-hand technique, the collection continues using only the inner glove
composed of polyvinyl, due to latex gloves provoke spermatozoa toxicity
(Ko et al., 1989). The operator grabs the penis and exerts pressure imitating
the pressure exerted by the cervix of the sow (Maes et al., 2011). The
automatic method, unlike the manual method, does not allow collecting a
single fraction, but the whole ejaculate is collected. In this case, once the
penis is externalized, the operator connects the penis of the boar to a system
with an artificial vagina. This system is equipped with a disposable sanitary
sleeve that allows direct contact between the penis and artificial vagina
and avoids ejaculate contamination. After that, the operator activates air
pressure to close the artificial vagina with the aim of grabbing the penis
(Waberski and Weitze, 2010). In both, manual and automatic methods, the
ejaculate is collected in a plastic container equipped with a filter to discard
the gelatinous fraction (Aneas et al., 2008). This container is pre-warmed
(38 °C) to avoid damage caused by thermal shock, and then placed in warm
water to keep the temperature constant (Maes et al., 2011).
The main difference between the two collection methods is that
technician efficiency increases using the automatic method, allowing
an increase in the number of ejaculates collected per hour (Aneas et al.,
2008). Additionally, by the automatic method, bacterial contamination is

reduced, and ejaculate volume and total number of sperm are higher than
the manual method (Aneas et al., 2008). However, the automatic method
is not widely used because the whole ejaculation is collected, including
a high SP amount. In fact, it has been proved that better results were
obtained when the post-spermatic rich fraction was discarded (Centurion
et al., 2003; Okazaki and Shimada, 2012).
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FIGURE 10.2 Procedure of seminal doses elaboration. (A) Semen collection: gloved-
hand and automatic technique; (B) Dilution in an appropriate extender; (C) Sperm analyses:
concentration determination by spectrophotometric, spermatozoa motility evaluation
by microscope or computerized assisted sperm analysis system (CASA); (D) Packing:
different package for seminal doses (bottles, tubes and bags/flat bags); automatic packing
machines; (E) Storage: seminal doses conservation at 15–17 ºC; (F) Artificial insemination
procedure. (Images provided by Pedro José Llamas-López and Minitube).
10.3 PREPARATION AND EVALUATION OF THE SEMINAL DOSES
After collection, the ejaculate is placed at the laboratory of AI-center,

where an initial qualitative evaluation is determined: color (gray-white
to white), appearance (milky to creamy) and odor (Althouse, 2007). The
different methods of semen collection and the environment where it is
extracted can affect some parameters of the seminal sample.
Once the ejaculate is suitable for processing after this initial appreciation,
the next step is the determination of spermatozoa concentration. Traditionally,

the most used method to calculate the cell concentration has been the
counting chambers such as Neubauer, Bürker, and Thoma (Althouse, 2007;
Brito et al., 2016). Nowadays, this method has been surpassed by spectro-
photometric techniques because manual counting is a slow process (Brito

et al., 2016). In an ejaculate, the opacity depends on the number of cells
among other elements of the SP that could interfere with the passage of the
light through the sample. Therefore, it is recommendable to dilute a small
sample for obtaining a more reliable result (depending extender, dilution
rates from 1:4–1:25) (Althouse, 2007). Besides, errors in the evaluation can
occur if the dilution is not correct or untimely reading (Althouse, 2007; Brito
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et al., 2016). CASA (Computerized Assisted Sperm Analysis) system can
also be used to determine the concentration, although this system is more
recommendable to assess sperm motility (Amann and Waberski, 2014; Brito
et al., 2016), as will be explained later. Another method for cell counting
is the flow cytometry, which allows rapid and automated counts of many
cells. However, the use of flow cytometry is limited due to its high cost and
the need for qualified personnel to manage the equipment and interpret the
results (Brito et al., 2016).
Then, seminal doses for AI will be elaborated and stored. The first step
is to dilute the ejaculate in an adequate extender to conserve the semen and
drive the spermatozoa during AI (Fig. 10.2b). The different extenders for
the preservation of spermatozoa are divided into three groups according
to the storage period (short, medium and long‐term based on their ability
to preserve spermatozoa from 1 day up to 10 days after collection) (Kara-
georgiou et al., 2016; Pezo et al., 2019b). There are numerous extenders
commercially available although the exact composition is not fully known
due to economic interests. In general terms, extenders are composed
by: (1) nutrients: to maintain cell metabolism, being the most common
glucose and fructose; (2) pH controller: bicarbonate, sodium citrate, Tris
or HEPES; (3) osmotic pressure controller: NaCl and KCl; (4) antibiotics:
to inhibit bacterial growth (Yeste, 2017). Bacteriospermia is one of the
main problems in AI worldwide (Yeste, 2017). Problems derived by the
presence of bacteria affect directly the semen quality impacting fertility
rates and causes endometritis in recipient females (Althouse et al., 2000;
Maes et al., 2008; Bussalleu and Torner, 2013). Although antibiotics are
frequently used in extenders, bacterial resistance has been reported in up
to 90% (Schulze et al., 2014) of the seminal doses studied. Then, new

alternatives to conventional antibiotics are on the light of researching

(Schulze et al., 2014) (see Section 10.8.3.).
After dilution, a spermatozoa quality control is necessary to ensure that
the process has been performed adequately. Spermatozoa quality param-

eters commonly evaluated in AI-centers are morphoanomalies (commonly
classified as normal morphology, proximal and distal cytoplasmic droplet or
tails defects, folded and coiled) (García-Vázquez et al., 2015) and motility
(Brito et al., 2016). In the case of motility, there are several methods for
its evaluation (Fig. 10.2): (1) light field or phase contrast microscopy: a
subjective manner to evaluate total motility (values from 0 to 100%) and
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progressive motility (values from 0 to 5, where 5 score represents the
highest level of progressivity), although this method has a high degree of
inaccuracy; 2) CASA system: evaluates spermatozoa motility and kinetic
parameters through a high-resolution camera mounted on a phase contrast
microscope (Brito et al., 2016). The motility parameters offered by CASA
system are the following: Total and progressive motility (%), curvilinear
velocity (VCL), rectilinear velocity (VSL), average speed (VAP) (all of
them expressed in μm/s), linearity Index (LIN, VSL/VCL in percentage),
straightness Index (STR, VSL/VAP in percentage), oscillation Index (WOB,
VAP/VCL in percentage), average amplitude of the lateral displacement of
the head (ALH, μm), beat frequency (BCF, Hz) (Amann and Waberski,
2014). Although this method is the most objective and evaluates different
parameters of sperm kinetics, some factors have to be considered to reduce
variability during evaluation. Such factors are sample temperature, dilution
factor, frequency and duration of mixing, or chamber depth (Broekhuijse
et al., 2011).
Another technique for accurate assessments of sperm samples is the flow
cytometry (Broekhuijse et al., 2015). This technique permits the evaluation
of a huge number of cells in a short time determining special characteristics
in the spermatozoa by using fluorochromes (Broekhuijse et al., 2015). Some
of the evaluable parameters by flow cytometry are spermatozoa viability,
DNA integrity, mitochondrial activity, membrane fluidity, and acrosome
reaction (Broekhuijse et al., 2012).
However, most of the parameters evaluated for the quality of ejaculates
have not been fully correlated with fertility (Broekhuijse et al., 2012).
Thus, a multivariate analysis seems to be more efficient in determining a
quality ejaculate (Knox, 2016). Nowadays, researchers are putting effort

into looking for some new biomarkers for reliable determination of the
fertility of a seminal dose (see Section 10.8.1).
Finally, the process of the individual seminal dose starts (Althouse,
2007). The volume and number of spermatozoa per seminal dose will depend
on the type of AI that will be performed (see Section 10.6). Subsequently,
the seminal dose will be packaged in its final container (bottles, tubes or
bags/flat bags) (Fig. 10.2) made of non-toxic plastic material (Althouse,
2007; Nerin et al., 2014). In highly specialized AI-centers the laboratories
have automatic packing machines, which optimizes the time and ensures
the same volume in the doses (Yeste, 2017). After packing, seminal doses
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can be refrigerated for storage (15–17 ºC) (Yeste, 2017) (Fig. 10.2).
10.4 FACTORS AFFECTING SEMINAL DOSES ELABORATION AND

CONSERVATION
The elaboration and conservation of the seminal doses is not an extremely

complex process. However, there are several factors that should be known
during the procedure to get a final product of enough quality and guarantee
of success during AI (Fig. 10.2). One of the main critical points during
seminal doses elaboration is the dilution which involves temperature,
steps of dilution and storage conditions.
Boar spermatozoa are very susceptible to cold shock; therefore, the
temperature of the ejaculate and extender during mixing is a critical
point. Drastic cooling from ejaculate temperature (~38ºC) to refrigeration
temperature (~15ºC) reduces spermatozoa viability and motility (Johnson,
2000). Then, the procedure of dilution is focused on decreasing the temper-
ature gradually. The protocol of dilution followed by AI-centers are mainly
one-step or two-step dilution, and temperature plays a key role in both
(Waberski, 2009). The one-step dilution consists in the mix of the ejaculate
with the extender at ~33ºC or room temperature. In the two-step protocol,
ejaculate is diluted 1:1 (at ~33ºC), followed by a second dilution. This
second dilution could be carried out using a pre-heated extender (~33ºC)
or at room temperature (22–23ºC) without differences between them in
terms of motility and membrane/acrosome integrity (López-Rodríguez et
al. 2012). There is also a three-step protocol dilution which consists in a
first dilution (1:1, ~33ºC), second dilution (adding 50% of the remaining
extender volume at ~33ºC) and third dilution (adding the remaining 50%
of the extender at ~33ºC) (Schulze et al., 2018). The one-step dilution at
~33ºC is the most recommendable procedure due to less work labor, lower
risk of mistakes because of simplicity, and better spermatozoa quality
results (Schulze et al., 2018). The orders in which the semen and extender
are mixed (extender to the semen or reverse) have not adverse effects on the
spermatozoa quality (Schulze et al., 2017). Commonly, once the seminal
doses are ready, a period of ~90 min at room temperature is necessary
before being transferred to 15–17ºC (Waberski, 2009).
Boar spermatozoa quality is impaired during storage and it is deter-
mined by the conditions and the length of this storage (Johnson et al.,
2000; Waberski et al., 2011; Schulze et al., 2013; Yeste, 2017). Sperm
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motility and viability has been determined as the main parameters affected
during refrigeration (Althouse et al., 1998). Boar sperm membrane altera-
tion, showing as a change in permeability allowing the entry to stains,
is considered a great indicator of spermatozoa storage-related damage
(Johnson et al., 2000; Roca et al., 2005; Bielas et al., 2017). Spermatozoa
DNA is also affected by refrigeration, alterations have been described after
the first hour of storage (Bielas et al., 2017) and after a longer period of
storage of 3 or 4 days (Fraser and Strzezek, 2004; Boe-Hansen et al., 2005;
Pérez-Llano et al., 2009).
Supplementation of seminal doses just before AI has been suggested
as a good practice to solve the detrimental effect of storage. In this sense,
several hormones have been tested, such as oxytocin (Peña et al., 1998;
Okazaki et al., 2014), relaxine (Feugang et al., 2015) or prostaglandin F2α
(Maes et al., 2003). On the other hand, a significant number of studies
have focused their goals in the improvements of seminal doses storage
conditions. One of the strategies used has been the supplementation of
additives to the extender such as hyaluronic acid (tested to postponed
premature capacitation; Yeste et al. 2008) or bovine serum albumin (BSA,
used for long-term extender; Zhang et al., 2015; Yeste et al., 2017) among
others. More information about new additives in extender will be found in
Section 10.8.3.
Other approaches improving spermatozoa conservation conditions
have been the rotation and homogenization of semen samples during their
storage to prevent spermatozoa sedimentation. Contrary to initial thoughts,
rotation of semen samples triggers an increase in pH with negative effects
on spermatozoa quality during storage (Schulze et al., 2015). Similarly,
the homogenization of doses during storage impaired mitochondrial
activity, acrosome and plasma membrane integrity (Menegat et al., 2017).

Accordingly, rotation and homogenization may not be a recommendable

action during the storage of seminal doses.
As aforementioned, the recommended temperature of storage ranges
from 15 to 17 ºC (Yeste, 2017) and storages temperatures below 12 ºC

induce cold shock with detrimental effects in boar spermatozoa (Althouse et
al., 1998; Johnson et al., 2000). According to this, the need for maintaining
the temperature in a limited range during shipping of seminal doses from
AI-center to the farms represents a logistic problem (Riesenbeck, 2011).
Besides keep constant the seminal dose temperature from its elaboration
to its use, another aspect that should be considered during seminal doses
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transportation is vibration emission. It has been proposed that vibration
might have a negative impact on pH values during transportation (Johnson
et al., 1982). Therefore, vibration emission with 300 rpm frequencies for
6 h resulted in alkalization of semen extender (Schulze et al., 2018) which
impairs sperm motility (Gatti et al., 1993; Vyt et al., 2007). Some others
spermatozoa quality parameters such as mitochondrial activity, acrosome,
plasma membrane integrity, and thermo-resistance showed a negative
frequency-dependent effect of vibration emissions during simulated trans-
portation (Schulze et al., 2018). In order to control this factor, a novel
monitoring tool for boar semen transport has been developed. This device,
established using mobile sensing, works as a data logger of vibration
emission from seminal doses (Schulze et al., 2018). Thanks to this new
technology, further studies aimed to find the optimal shipping packing for
boar seminal doses may be attained.
Apart from refrigeration, there are other strategies for the long-term
preservation of boar spermatozoa, such as cryopreservation or lyophiliza-
tion. Cryopreservation is performed in the presence of cryoprotectants, to
avoid cold shock. In fact, boar spermatozoa are subjected to changes at
low temperature because of their plasmatic membrane composition, poor
in cholesterol (Rodriguez-Martinez and Wallgren, 2010; Casas and Flores,
2013; Yeste, 2017). Cryopreservation may be performed in two ways:
1) Slow freezing: spermatozoa are freezing in an extender containing
cryoprotectants, using controlled-rate freezers; in this case, the formation
of ice crystals within the suspension, due to the flow of water between
intracellular and extracellular space, can induce spermatozoa damage
(Johnson et al., 2000; Watson, 2000; Holt and Van Look, 2004); 2) Fast
freezing or vitrification: it is performed with very high cooling rates. By
this method, water does not form ice crystals, but it reaches the vitreous

state. Despite vitrification requires less time and costs than slow freezing,
it is not currently used because of the osmotic effect due to high concentra-
tions of cryoprotectants (Arraztoa et al., 2017). A possible solution could
be an alternative vitrification method in the absence of cryoprotectants,

called spheres method (Arraztoa et al., 2017). This method consists of
using microdroplets of spermatozoa samples, dipping in liquid nitrogen
and obtaining spheres. Otherwise, lyophilization consists of sperm cell
dehydration by evaporation (conventional heat-drying) or by sublimation
(freeze-drying) (Zăhan et al., 2014). One of the negative aspects of lyophi-
lization is that spermatozoa lose motility after rehydration. However, the
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spermatozoa acrosome membrane remains intact, so intracytoplasmic
sperm injection may be used (Zăhan et al., 2014).
Nowadays, there are ongoing research to improve long-term preserva-
tion method to increase spermatozoa survival. Actually, only 1% of pAI is
performed using cryopreserved spermatozoa because of low fertilizing ability
of spermatozoa after thawing (Yeste, 2017; García-Vázquez et al., 2019a).
10.5 THE ROLE OF THE FEMALE IN ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
After processing semen samples, the seminal doses are shipped to the
farms (Maes et al., 2011) for further AI. Previously, it is necessary to keep
in mind the different female populations existing at the farm. Females
are classified based on the number of farrowing: 1) nulliparous (or gilts):
females without any previous farrowing; 2) primiparous: sows with one
farrowing; 3) multiparous: sows with more than one farrowing.
In order to proceed with AI, estrus detection, timing and number of
inseminations per sow have to be considered (Maes et al., 2011). The
gilts can receive the first insemination when they are 7–8 months old,
weighing ~130–140 kg and preferably after the second or third detected
estrus (Waberski and Weitze, 2010). The first step before perform AI is
estrus detection. Most of the protocols at the farm estimate estrus detection
twice-daily (in the morning and in the afternoon) (Langendijk et al., 2000).
Before illustrating the possible methods to perform estrus detection,
it is important to understand the oestrus cycle in porcine females. The
oestrus cycle lasts 21 days and it is divided into two stages: 1) the follicular
phase which is split in proestrus and oestrus (1–3 days both of them); 2)
the luteal phase divided in metoestrus and dioestrus (2–3 days and 13–18

days, respectively). The estrus stage can last from 36 to 90 h, depending

mainly on the age of the sow (Steverink et al., 1999), and it is character-
ized by hormonal changes, in particular, an increase in estrogen levels.
Following the peak of estrogen (24–48 h before estrus) (Guthrie et al.,

1972), vulvar edema is observed and, subsequently, 36–40 h after the first
estrus signals, the ovulation occurs (Yeste and Castillo-Martín, 2013). The
main rules that should be considered to perform the estrus detection are the
following: 1) prefer the early hours of the morning and before feeding; 2)
expose the sow to the presence and/or smell of a boar, because sows show
a procreative behavior in presence of the male (de Jonge et al., 1994); 3)
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handle the sow calmly to allow relaxing (Sterle and Safranski, 2000).
For estrus detection, the sow should preferably be exposed to a mature
boar. The sow in estrus stage will show a standing reflex (stiffness) being
sexually receptive. The most widely used estrus detection method on
farms is the manual method, also called “back pressure test” (reviewed by
Cornou, 2006). The operator presses on the back of the sow and evaluates
the response giving a score, based on length and strength of the stiffness
(Willemse and Boender, 1966; Cronin et al., 1982). The parameters
observed are vulvar reddening and swelling caused from blood inflow
(Sterning, 1995; Langendijk et al., 2000), tilted ears, riding behavior,
and vocalizing (Steverink et al., 1999). The manual method requires
more animal handling time and physical labor by the staff, so it would be
preferable to apply an automatic method. There are different techniques
to perform estrus detection by an automatic manner. One of them is the
“infrared sensor”. By this method, a sensor is placed 50 cm above the
body of the sow to detect the level of physical activity, increased at the
onset of the estrus (reviewed by Cornou, 2006). An alternative procedure
for estrus detection is the “electronic method”, which consists of placing a
boar in a closed pen, the sow on the outside of the facility, and monitoring
how long the sow spends close to the boar pen (Ostersen et al., 2010).
Additionally, the estrus may be detected measuring body temperature (ear
base, vaginal or rectal), because of its change during the days of estrus,
hormonal changes, and follicular growth (reviewed by Cornou, 2006).
Measure of body temperature is not widely used, providing non-specific
information, due to changes in temperature around the estrus. Instead,
regarding hormonal changes and follicular growth, they are of limited
applicability under field conditions, requiring specific trained technicians
able to perform these techniques (reviewed by Cornou, 2006). Moreover,

in the last few years, a new modern method of estrus detection is emerging,
the called “infrared thermography”. It is a non-invasive method, able to
detect changes in vulvar skin temperature by infrared radiation emission.
This technique is performed by an infrared thermal camera placed at 1 m

from the rear end of the sow by drawing a polygon around the vulva, to
outline the area where the temperature needs to be measured (Simões et
al., 2014).
Once the estrus has been detected, the AI can be performed (reviewed
by Knox, 2016). It is important to carry out the AI at the onset of the
estrus to deposit the semen into the uterus before ovulation occurs. By
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this way, spermatozoa have time to be capacitated and acquire fertilizing
ability (Waberski and Weitze, 2010). The estrus does not have a defined
duration, whereby the number of inseminations depends on the duration of
estrus (reviewed by Knox, 2016). Usually, AI is performed twice per sow
every 24 h during the estrus or, even three if the estrus period is extended
(Knox et al., 2008).
10.6 ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION TECHNIQUE
The first use of AI dates from the 14th century when an Arabic Chief
used semen stolen from a rival to successfully inseminate his own mares
(Bowen, 1969). It was not until many years later in 1678 that sperm cells
were observed for the first time by Leeuwenhoek with an own created
microscope (Leeuwenhoek, 1678). The next historic landmark took place
a century later when Spallanzani performed the first insemination in a
bitch with success giving birth to three pups, whereby was demonstrated
the actual feasibility of AI (Spallanzani, 1784). Afterward, the contribu-
tions of Professor Ivanov from Russia by the end of the 19th century were
central for the establishment of AI as a practical procedure in domestic
animals (Ivanov 1907; 1922). The development of semen extenders by this
author together with the design of artificial vaginas by Milovanov in 1964
opened a new era in animal AI (Broekhuijse et al., 2012; Soriano-Úbeda
et al., 2013; Knox, 2015).
Thanks to Ivanov’s work, pAI also started in the early 1900s in Russia
(Ivanov 1970; 1922), having the biggest growth in the 1940s in the United
States (McKenzie, 1931). Polge conducted more studies on pAI in Western
Europe (Polge, 1956) and Niwa did the same in Japan (Niwa, 1958). The
possibility of store semen for a long enough period that comes after the
development of properly extenders (initiated by Ivanov in Russia in 1922

and Philips and Lardy in the United States in 1940) allowed the shipment
and use in the field. Porcine AI was quickly spread worldwide (Salisbury et
al., 1978) and by the 20th century, a standardized protocol was established
for farmers and technicians.
Since the beginning, CAI was the technique performed widely. CAI is
an easy and simple technique that can be done by any swine farm personnel.
This method consists in depositing the semen dose within the cervix
(Fig. 10.3) using a catheter that engages with the folds of the cervix and
simulates the corkscrew tie of the boar's penis (Polge, 1956). At the begin-
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ning, AI was performed by means of a reusable catheter, or Melrose catheter,
that mimicked the spiral shape of the boar penis (Melrose and O'Hagan,
1961). This was rapidly superseded by disposables supplies that facilitated
safe insemination minimizing microbial contamination and limiting work by
suppressing the needed for cleaning and sterilization after every use (Knox,
2015). Nowadays, several AI catheters with modified tips are commercially
available; basically they consist of a simple polypropylene tube with an
expanded polyurethane sponge tip which adopts basically three different
forms: spiral, foam or multi-ring and that casts itself to the cervical folds
(Watson and Behan, 2002; Soriano-Úbeda et al., 2013) (Fig. 10.3).
Most frequent CAI seminal dose consists of an ~90 ml dose with 3.0
× 109 sperm cells (García-Vázquez et al., 2019a). Several studies have
been made in order to define the best concentration for a seminal dose,
a wide range between 1.0–4.0 × 109 sperm cells in 20 to 200 ml of final
volume have been tested (Soriano-Úbeda et al., 2013; Knox, 2015). The
standard CAI procedure is done in the presence of a boar to induce the
necessary myometrial contraction for spermatozoa transport through the
cervical canal (Langendijk et al., 2005) and the semen flow using gravity
and gentle pressure. Also, backpressure needs to be applied by the AI
operator or using a backpack with weight to mimic the boar compression
(Knox, 2015).
The basic outlines of the process of pAI have remained unchanged
over time, although many details have varied considerably. The advance
of AI technologies in porcine has been mainly based on the place of semen
deposition, meaning that the deeper the deposition less spermatozoa is
needed with the consequent economical savings.
In this sense, one of the first improvements to AI technique based on a
non-surgical deposition of semen into the uterus was described in the late
1950s by Hancock (Hancock, 1959) but was not commercially reported
until the 2000s (Watson and Beham, 2002). In this case, a non-traumatic
catheter device, consisting of a catheter (outer tube)- cannula (inner tube),
was developed and allow to deposit the spermatozoa into the uterus body,
closer to the site of fertilization than CAI (Watson and Beham, 2002;
Hernández-Caravaca et al., 2012). The main objective of this new AI
methodology (PCAI or intrauterine insemination), was to achieve a high
reduction on the sperm cell and volume used per dose avoiding any nega-
tive effect on reproductive performance (Fig. 10.3) (Watson and Behan,
2002; Rozeboom et al., 2004; Mezalira et al., 2005; Roberts and Bilkei,
2005; Hernández-Caravaca et al., 2012).
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The use of PCAI technique provides several advantages on the field
such as the increased number of seminal doses produced per boar which
allow a faster improvement in genetics and the number of males per farm
could be reduced, all of which represent an economic improvement. More-
over, PCAI technique is faster than CAI, when in CAI normally needs
2.76 ± 0.63 min per inseminated sow, PCAI is made in 1.12 ± 0.05 min
(Hernández-Caravaca et al., 2012). This is mainly explained because this
technique saved one of the main physical barriers, the cervix, and allowed
a quick introduction of the semen doses releasing sperm cells closer to
the fertilization place. Many different sperm cells concentration and dose
volume had been testing for PCAI, and are still controversial, but there is
an agreement about the use on the field of a 40–45 ml dose with a concen-
tration of approximately 1.5 x 109 sperm cells with the same or also better
results than CAI (Watson and Behan, 2002; Hernández-Caravaca et al.,
2012; García-Vázquez et al., 2019a).
CAI has been substituted by PCAI worldwide during the last years,
but the success was restricted to multiparous sows (García-Vazquez et
al., 2019b). Primiparous and nulliparous females suppose a limitation for
PCAI, with success rates of technique application close to 86% and 20%
respectively (Sbardella et al., 2014; Hernández-Caravaca et al., 2017). The
main cause of this variance could be explained because of the differences in
the cervix that difficult the progression of the cannula (Behan and Watson,
2005; Araujo et al., 2009; Hernández-Caravaca et al., 2017). In this sense,
significant differences have been found in the morphology of the cervix
when the cervix of multiparous and nulliparous females was compared
(García-Vázquez et al., 2019b). These authors report that multiparous sows
present a longer cervix, a greater content of connective tissue and lower
muscle fibers compared to nulliparous females. The amount of connective
tissue is highly correlated with cervix distension capacity, whereby, it was
proposed that these differences might be partly responsible for the low
performance of PCAI in gilts (Rodriguez-Antolin et al., 2012).
In order to solve these anatomic limitations, a new device was devel-
oped by Behan and Watson in 2005 allowing a greater penetration of the

cervix of the gilt and the use of a lower concentration of spermatozoa but
with similar reproductive performance than traditional CAI. Moreover, a
new PCAI device specially designed for nulliparous supposed, a successful
application in 60% of the inseminated gilts (Hernández-Caravaca et al.,
2017). A new approach for AI in gilts has emerged as the denomination
of Deep cervical AI (Dp-CAI). This new method is based on the use of
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a novel AI device (Fig. 10.3) which gets deeper into the cervical funnel,
allowing to reduce conventional sperm concentration and volume of
semen dose without impairing reproductive parameters, achieving success
insemination in almost 90% of the gilts (Llamas-López et al., 2019).
As mentioned, the site of semen deposition has been the main target to
get improvement on AI technology. According to this, a new protocol for
AI was developed with the main goal of release sperm cells deeper into
the uterus named deep intrauterine insemination (DUI). First trails in DUI
were made in 1999 (Krueger et al., 1999) when performed a successful
surgical deep intrauterine insemination releasing a small amount of semen
(0.5 ml) close to the utero-tubal junction. Despite being a breakthrough
by minimizing the dose, the impossibility of their use in field condition
inspires other authors to keep trying to improve it. Two years later, a non-
surgical deep uterine insemination which deposits the semen into uterine
horns, performed by an optic fiber endoscope was developed, achieving
normal farrowing rates and litter sizes using a low seminal dose (5–20 x
107 sperm cells in 10 ml) (Martinez et al., 2001). In this study, DUI was
performed by the insertion of a commercial AI catheter on the cervix and
after that, the endoscope was inserted through the catheter and propelled
forward along the uterine horn which adopted a spiral shape (Martinez
et al., 2001; Vázquez et al., 2005). DUI allowed a reduction of 20-fold
and 6-fold in sperm concentration of fresh and frozen semen respectively
(Vázquez et al., 2008). Although this supposed a great advance in AI
procedure, still represented an expensive and fragile instrument unsuit-
able for use under field conditions (Martinez et al., 2001). In this sense,
the same group developed a new inexpensive device (Fig. 10.3) for DUI
performed based on the propulsion force and flexibility of the endoscope
(Martinez et al., 2002). In this new technique, the flexible catheter was

inserted into one uterine horn in 95.4% of the sows in 3–5 minutes but
gestations were in both uterine horns (Martinez et al., 2002).
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FIGURE 10.3 Different AI techniques in swine. CAI: cervical AI; PCAI: in post-cervical
AI semen is deposited in the uterine body; DpCAI: in deep cervical AI the semen is deposited
in the anterior section of the cervix (especially indicated for nulliparous females); DUI: in
deep intrauterine insemination the semen is deposited in one of the uterine horns. (Images
of CAI and PCAI devices were provided by Import-Vet S.A. Spain).

10.7 SPERMATOZOA JOURNEY WITHIN THE FEMALE GENITAL

TRACT
After AI, billions of spermatozoa colonize the uterus and start their journey
within the female genital tract, crossing the uterine horns until reaching
the site of fertilization (the oviduct). However, not all the deposited
spermatozoa will be able to attain the oviduct (First et al., 1968; Viring and
Einarsson, 1981; Tummaruk and Tienthai, 2010). Part of the spermatozoa
population is lost in the backflow (loss through the vulva) (Steverink et al.,
1998; Hernández-Caravaca et al., 2012; García-vázquez et al., 2015a,b; I.
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Hernández-Caravaca et al., 2015) and by the influx of polymorphonuclear
(PMN) granulocytes (by phagocytosis) within the uterus lumen during the
first 3–4 h after insemination (Matthijs et al., 2003; Taylor et al., 2009),
among other mechanisms. Some strategies have been developed to reduce
the backflow during AI. For example, placing a cotton tampon or a plastic
plug into the cervix after semen deposition, but the number of spermatozoa
at the utero-tubal junction was not affected by this procedure (Pursel, 1982;
Steverink et al., 1998). The PMN influx occurs after the interaction between
spermatozoa and female uterine tissues and it depends on different factors,
such as the phase of the oestrus cycle, the number of deposited spermatozoa,
dose volume and extender composition (Schuberth et al., 2008; Taylor et al.,
2009). Once the seminal dose is deposited within the uterus, SP plays a pivotal
role in spermatozoa transport, survival and fertilizing ability (Rozeboom et al.,
2000). Transport is facilitated by the stimulation of uterine contractions due
to its estradiol content (Claus, 1990; Langendijk et al., 2005). Moreover, SP
aids spermatozoa survival by modulating the immune response (Rozeboom
et al., 1998; Katila, 2012), due to the presence of SP-proteins, mostly
spermadhesins, that coat spermatozoa surface and reduce the uterine influx
of PMN (Rozeboom et al., 1998; Rodriguez-Martinez et al., 2010). Viable,
motile and membrane intact spermatozoa prevent selection for backflow and
PMN influx, through a binding between sperm and uterine epithelial cells by
protein interactions, such as spermadhesins, lectin and lectin-like (Töpfer-
Petersen et al., 1998; Rath et al., 2008; Taylor et al., 2008). The reduction
in PMN influx may increase the number of spermatozoa able to reach the
fertilization site (Yamaguchi et al., 2013). However, it should be considered
that, during AI, SP components are reduced because of semen dilution by the
extender. Thus, the immune response within the uterus will be low modulated
by the SP. To solve this problem, new strategies are being developed such as

the addition of caffeine and calcium chloride (CaCl2) to the semen extender
(Matthijs et al., 2003; Yamaguchi et al., 2009).
The SP is not only implicated in the uterine immune response. This male
fluid contains molecules, termed decapacitation factors, able to stimulate

or inhibit sperm capacitation (Piehl et al., 2013), a process that modifies
sperm membrane making spermatozoa able to fertilize. Within the uterus,
before reaching the oviduct, SP-decapacitation factors, such as spermad-
hesins AQN-3 and AWN-1, coat spermatozoa to avoid early capacitation,
allowing spermatozoa continue their journey toward the oocyte (Leahy
and Gadella, 2011). Spermatozoa will be gradually decoated by SP-factors
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in order to allow the onset of capacitation and acquire fertilizing ability
(Garner and Hafez, 2000).
During sperm transport within the uterus, spermatozoa are not only
in contact with SP but with other reproductive fluids from the female
such as the uterine and oviductal fluids (UF and OF, respectively). The
UF is composed by ions, growth factors, cytokines, proteins, proteolytic
enzymes, as shown in different species (Iritani et al., 1969; Iritani et al.,
1971; Gardner et al., 1996). The UF has a double effect on spermatozoa,
aiding their transport towards the site of fertilization (Casado-Vela et al.,
2009) and at the same time attacks unprotected spermatozoa from SP
affecting motility and viability, as shown in mice (Kawano et al., 2014).
After crossing the hostile uterine environment, surviving sperma-
tozoa reach the oviduct where interacting with the OF, a biological fluid
containing inorganic and organic molecules, such as the bicarbonate that
allows spermatozoa capacitation, a physiological process that makes them
able to fertilize the oocyte (Rodríguez-Martínez et al., 2005). Within the
oviduct, spermatozoa meet a suitable microenvironment that aids them to
reach the ampullary-isthmic junction, the site of fertilization in porcine
species (Hunter, 1981; Yeste, 2013). The oviduct is also involved in sperm
transport towards the oocyte, but spermatozoa must colonize the oviduct
before ovulation. Thus, spermatozoa have a strategy binding to oviductal
cells in the isthmus, where constitute the sperm reservoir (Rodríguez-
Martínez et al., 2005). During this phase, OF aids spermatozoa to stay
in a state of quiescence, preventing sperm capacitation up to ovulation
(Mburu et al., 1996). Later, spermatozoa are exposed to post-ovulatory OF
that allows the onset of capacitation (Yeste, 2013), after that, they move
towards the ampullar-isthmic junction.

10.8 NEW ISSUES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES IN PORCINE

ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
Porcine industry constantly demands improvements for maximizing effi-

ciency and research effort are constant underway to find new strategies to
solve them. As described throughout the previous sections reproductive
biotechnologies applied in AI have been increasing progressively and
spread on improve reproductive issues. However, there are some not fully
efficient aspects that need to be amended to make the “reproductive area”
more profitable.
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Since several years ago, the research is oriented in several ways. In this
sense, the selection of boars with the highest reproductive efficiency and
genetic merit is crucial for ensuring faster progress (Dyck et al., 2011).
Research is also focused to obtain better extender composition and accom-
plish longer preservation time as possible, without detrimental effects on
spermatozoa quality. Furthermore, the development of new accessible
technology for sperm selection available for its use on farm conditions
and improvement on AI protocols are other working branches in which
swine industry is expending effort. This section provides an overview of
the current and future strategies focused to enhance pAI technology.
10.8.1 FERTILITY BIOMARKERS
A single boar can service about 2000 sows yearly, so it is worth to note
the significant genetic and economic impact of that single boar semen has
on the productivity of the swine industry (Feugang, 2017). Current semen
analysis in AI-centers, which includes parameters of sperm motility and
morphology measurements, are useful to indicate semen quality but still
unable to predict boar fertility and reproductive performance (Dyck et al.,
2011; Kwon et al., 2015a). Researcher efforts are concentrated in genomics
and proteomics approaches, aimed at the goal of identified biomarkers
for assessing male fertility. Advances in molecular techniques can now be
used for selection of boars based on a direct comparison of gene (Lin et
al., 2006; Kaewmala et al., 2011; Zhang et al., 2018; Kim et al., 2019) and/
or protein expression between semen, SP and/or spermatozoa of boars of
known high and low fertility (Dyck et al., 2011; Kwon et al., 2014, 2015,
2017; Rahman et al., 2017).

In a proteomic approach, differences in protein expression have been

detected when spermatozoa from superior boar (high litter size) were
compared with spermatozoa from inferior boar (low litter size) (Kwon et
al., 2015a). According to this, positive fertility markers in superior boars

(Kwon et al., 2015a) and negative biomarkers in inferior boar sperma-
tozoa were recognized (Kwon et al., 2015b). Besides, the same authors
proposed that differential expressed proteins in spermatozoa before and
after capacitation can help to differentiate males with high fertility (Kwon
et al., 2015c; Rahman et al., 2017). Fertility-related biomarkers can be
used to predict male fertility in different breeds but an efficient selection
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of markers for the breed of interest is recommended to be considered for
more precise conclusions (Kwon et al., 2017, 2018).
Otherwise, studies of potential fertility biomarkers were also performed
in porcine SP (Dyck et al., 2011). SP-proteins have a fundamental role
during spermatozoa protection and capacitation, and therefore in fertiliza-
tion (reviewed by Dyck et al., 2011). According to that, differences in
SP-proteins expression were analyzed to find a feasible biomarker related
to boar fertility using high-through-put proteomics techniques. Several
SP-proteins were identified as possible markers. In this sense, differences
in protein expression were observed related to sperm capacitation (May
et al., 2015), oxidative stress (Novak et al., 2010; May et al., 2015) and
farrowing rate and litter size (Pérez-Patiño et al., 2018) among others.
Additionally, gene marker candidates to predict boar fertility have
been proposed. Polymorphisms (Lin et al., 2005) and alternative splicing
or genetic variation (Zhang et al., 2018) of some candidate genes were
considered as feasible markers for improving spermatozoa quality traits
and boar reproductive performance. A transcriptomic approach in combina-
tion with proteomic information was also applied for biomarker discovery
related to spermatozoa quality and fertility traits (Kaewmala et al., 2011).
Furthermore, a negative correlation of a gene connected to sperm ion
channel regulation with boar litter size was observed and proposed as a
specific marker for male fertility evaluation (Kim et al., 2019).
In summary, the general idea of a single test to predict spermatozoa
quality and/or boar better fertility between groups of boars may be feasible
in a short future (Novak et al., 2010). The incorporation of genomic and
proteomic biomarkers into the boar selection process in the future may
significantly improve reproductive efficiency.

10.8.2 SPERMATOZOA PHOTO-STIMULATION
Phototherapy for medical treatment has been successfully applied in

different areas such as rheumatology, surgery, and dermatology (reviewed

by Yeste et al., 2018). The main effect of low-level light irradiation on the
cell, also called photobiomodulation, appears to be related to an increase
of ATP level, a highly necessary molecule for sperm motility and egg
maturation. So, this discipline has gained followers in the reproduction
area (Abdel-Salam and Harith, 2015; Yeste et al., 2018).
In this sense, photo-stimulation of boar semen has been tested either
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in vitro or in vivo conditions without any negative effect on DNA integrity
(Yeste et al., 2016, 2018). Briefly, the photo-stimulation protocol used
was 10 min LED stimulation (L-phase), 10 min darkness (D-phase)
and another 10 min of LED stimulation (L-phase) (Yeste et al., 2016).
A significantly increased in farrowing rates and in the number of total
and live-piglets born per parturition was achieved with this pre-treatment,
showing a better success when the initial fertility rate of the farm is low
(Yeste et al., 2016). Moreover, the positive effect of photo-stimulation on
motility was demonstrated in spermatozoa after exposure to short-term
thermal stress (Pezo et al., 2019a). Likewise, in a later study, the effect
of LED light chamber exposure was examined on the in vitro quality of
boar sperm (Luther et al., 2018). However, and in contrast with previous
results, no differences were found in sperm kinematic parameters, neither
in mitochondria function nor membrane integrity between untreated and
treated doses. Therefore, the authors conclude that previous improvements
achieved might be due to other parameters not tested in the mentioned
work (Luther et al., 2018).
Despite the promising results that this technique represents, it is still
necessary to continue researching this topic (Abdel-Salam and Harith,
2015; Yeste et al., 2018).
10.8.3 BOAR EXTENDER IMPROVEMENTS
Efforts in extender improvements are focused on reaching preservation

of boar semen in the best conditions, with the main goal of achieving
spermatozoa quality after a long time of preservation. The progress of
the research in this area is addressed in different strategies that delve into

the crucial points of the preservation technique, including the restriction

of bacterial contamination (Bussalleu and Torner, 2013; Morrell and
Wallgren, 2014; Schulze et al., 2014), conservation temperature (López
Rodríguez et al., 2012), extender components (Pezo et al., 2019b), and

use of additives (Bresciani et al., 2017; Cavalleri et al., 2018; Wang et
al., 2018). It is worth notice that the higher the production intensity in the
pig industry became, the higher the technology for semen processing and
preservation will be required.
One of the indispensable components in the porcine semen extender
is the antibiotic. Currently, antibiotics must be added to semen extender
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to control possible contaminations and it is regulated by national and
international guidelines. Despite, global policies are aimed at reducing the
development of bacterial resistance and general use of antibiotics in semen
extender could be avoided or strictly limited in the next years (Morrell and
Wallgren, 2014). In addition, some studies have proved that an extraor-
dinary percentage of bacteria present in seminal doses are resistant to
regular antibiotics (Maroto Matín et al., 2010; Bussalleu and Torner, 2013;
Morrell and Wallgren, 2014). In this sense, some alternatives to antibiotics
are being proposed. The addition of antimicrobial peptides (AMP), potent
peptides part of innate immune response which acts as broad-spectrum
antibiotics, has been tested and achieving a good performance decreasing
bacterial growth without prejudicial effects on semen quality (Busalleu et
al., 2016; Sancho et al., 2017). Also, a cationic AMP has been proved to
be potential molecules to replace the common antibiotics (Schulze et al.,
2014, 2016). Although it is not an additive to extend, other methods have
also been proposed to reduce the bacterial load as the use of colloids. Single
layer centrifugation (SLC) is a novel technology that could be easily used
in the field and a feasible alternative to antibiotics. Briefly, semen amount
is poured into a centrifuge tube with a single layer of colloid and centri-
fuged for 20 min (Morrell and Wallgren, 2011). The results obtained after
the centrifugation indicated a reduction of bacterial similar that achieve
with the use of antibiotics. A similar strategy had been applied in sperm
selection with the aim of improves spermatozoa cryopreservation quality
(Macías-García et al., 2008; Van Wienen et al., 2010; Martinez-Alborcia et
al., 2012). Further research is needed to define the effects of this method in
semen with longer storage periods and subjected to different temperatures.
Otherwise, it is well known that spermatozoa quality and fertilizing
capacity is affected by oxidative stress (by the generation of reactive

oxygen species-ROS) during preservation in many species (Alvarez and

Storey, 1983; Storey, 1997; Zhang et al., 2016; López-Rodríguez et al.,
2017). Glutathione antioxidant function in semen against oxidative stress
has been proposed (Gadea et al., 2004). According to this, the addition
of L-glutamine, glutathione and/or cysteine to semen extender has been
demonstrated to have a protective effect on sperm cells exposed to
oxidative stress during liquid preservation (Funahashi and Sano, 2005;
Wang et al., 2008; Zang et al., 2016).
Beside the antioxidant, other alternative has been proved to reduce or
suppress negative effects of oxidative stress on boar semen as the addition
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of Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) (Fu et al., 2017), natural antioxidants
as Rooibos (Asparalathus linearis) (Ros-Santella and Pintus, 2017) and
aminoguanidine (Pintus et al., 2018) achieving a good performance in
sperm protection.
Although results obtained by inseminating with liquid semen stored at
15–17 ºC are like those obtained in natural mating, the lifespan of sperma-
tozoa is limited and can only be preserved in average for 5 days (Michael
et al., 2008). Despite the existence of good quality boar extenders, studies
of newly improved formulations are incessant. There is a growing interest
in improved long-term extender composition to achieve optimal storage
conditions (Vyt et al., 2004; Funahashi and Sano, 2005; Lee and Park,
2015a,b; Bielas et al., 2017). In this sense, an improved in sperm membrane
protection was accomplished when the extender was flowed through a
neodymium magnet (Lee and Park, 2015a,b). These results suggest that
magnetized semen extender before dilution could increase the longevity
of spermatozoa preservation. A novel long-term semen extender was
developed by Brescani et al., which allowed to stored doses for 12 days at
17 ºC. Its formulation was based on the incorporation of new molecules,
as the energy precursor, a disaccharide (sucrose) and an enzymatic agent
(invertase) (Bresciani et al., 2017).
10.8.4 NANOTECHNOLOGY: CONTRIBUTIONS TO
REPRODUCTION ENHANCEMENT
Nanotechnology has emerged in the last years as a very useful tool in

different areas (Angelakeris, 2017). This new technology allows innovative
applications in a wide range of disciplines, including agriculture (Hill

and Li, 2017), biotechnology/biomedicine, magnetic resonance imaging

and environmental remediation (Lu et al., 2007). Nanotechnology is
also acquiring importance and is already being used within the field of
reproductive biology (Feugang, 2017).

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) offer the opportunity to specifi-
cally target spermatozoa and allow detecting and removing damaged or
abnormal spermatozoa from an ejaculate (Odhiambo et al., 2014; Feugang
et al., 2015, Durfey et al., 2017; Feugang, 2017). In this sense, a protocol
for subtraction of apoptotic spermatozoa has been developed and applied
in many species such as human (Grunewald et al., 2001), mice (Green et
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al., 2006), bull (Odhiambo et al., 2014), boar (Feugang et al., 2015) and
rabbit (Vasicek et al., 2010). Briefly, MNPs are conjugated with Annexin-
V, which target with externalized phosphatidylserine residues of early
apoptotic spermatozoa surface membrane. Then, when MNPs and fresh
semen are co-incubated, abnormal sperms link to MNPs are separated and
trapping through a magnetic field (Durfey et al., 2019). Using the same
principle, other molecules such as lectin to recognize acrosome-reacted
spermatozoa, had been conjugated with MNPs to obtain a population of
selected sperm (Feugang et al., 2015).
Otherwise, a novel sex-sorted semen technique was developed with
nanoparticles technology, employing functionalized gold nanoparticles to
identify Y-chromosome (Rath et al., 2013). Briefly, these authors designed
a bivalent nanoparticle conjugated with a cell penetrating peptide and
allow nanoparticles to penetrate the spermatozoa membrane to hybrid-
izing nucleic acid. These hybridizations are selective at the Y-chromosome
and can be recognized by optical detection due to its specific aggregation
pattern. The result is a sex-specific sorting in the spermatozoa population
trapping only the sperm with the determined sex of interest (Rath et al.,
2013).
10.8.5 FIXED-TIME ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
Fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) allows inseminating sows and

gilts with a single semen dose by the induction of ovulation at a fixed
time (Bortolozzo et al., 2015; De Rensis and Kirkwood, 2016). The main
benefits of FTAI are the reduction in labour costs and requirements due to
the possibility of inseminating without the need for estrus detection. At the

same time, achieve faster genetic progress by the increase and optimize
the use of better boars (Baroncello et al., 2017).
Principal ovulation inducers used in FTAI protocol for weaned sows
are two GnRH analogues, buserelin or triptorelin acetate (De Rensis and
Kirkwood, 2016). Briefly, buserelin protocol consists of the administration
of this hormone 86–89 h post-weaning followed by single insemination
after 30–33 h of hormone injection. This protocol only can be applied
in sows showing estrus behavior, which represents a limitation of this
procedure (Driancourt et al., 2013; Baroncello et al., 2017). On the other
hand, in triptorelin protocol, hormone administration must be done 96 h
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after weaning and insemination is performed 22–24 h later. In this case,
all sows can be inseminated, without the need of estrus detection (Knox
et al., 2014, 2017). However, the use of FTAI in gilts is more complicated
because it requires previous estrus cycle synchronization by progestogen
for several days prior to ovulation induction (Bortolozzo et al., 2005;
Martinat-Botté et al., 2010). This makes the commercial use of FTAI
in gilts more expensive and complex. Therefore, nowadays FTAI use is
limited to weaned sows and only in specific situations for gilts (García-
Vázquez et al., 2019a).
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors would like to thank Import-Vet S.A., Minitube and Pedro José
Llamas-López for providing the images to illustrate the chapter.
KEYWORDS
•• biomarkers
•• post-cervical insemination
•• reproductive fluids
•• semen processing and handling

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Index
A artificial insemination (AI)

fixed-time artificial insemination
Antimicrobial peptides (AMP), 307
(FTAI), 10–14
Artificial insemination (AI), 91, 228–229
heat detection (HD), 10
beef heifers and beef cows reproductive
(FTAI), 10–14
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management
heat detection (HD), 10
anestrus, 8
in swine
body condition score (BCS), 4–5
advantages of pAI, 284
Bos taurus, 8
boar extender improvements, 306–308
breeding season (BS), 4
boars, 284, 286–289
breeding soundness evaluations
factors affecting seminal doses
(BBSEs), 8
elaboration and conservation,
first ovulation, 6
292–295
FTAI and NS (AI-NS), 7
fertility biomarkers, 304–305
maternal-embryo recognition, 6
natural service (NS), 7, 8
(FTAI), 309–310
negative energy balance (NEB), 5
mechanisms, 285
nutrient utilization, biological
nanotechnology, 308–309
priorities for, 5
porcine, phases involved, 285
optimal timing of, 7
role of female in, 295–297
pituitary stores, re-accumulation of, 5
seminal doses, preparation and
progesterone, exogenous
evaluation of, 289–292
administration of, 8
spermatozoa journey within female
puberty in, 6–7
genital tract, 302–303
reproductive response, 5
spermatozoa photo-stimulation, 306
reproductive tract scoring (RTS), 7
technique, 297–301
selection criteria, 6
Assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs),
timed natural breeding (TNB), 8–9
175, 247–248
beef production
Association of Embryo Technology in
artificial insemination (AI) treatment, 4
Europe (AETE), 145, 147
beef cattle production, 3
Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), 308
breeding soundness evaluation (BSE)
anatomy, ultrasound, 52–57
B
bull, preparation of, 45–46
Beef production, 4 equipment, 46–48
artificial insemination (AI) treatment, 4 evaluations, 43
beef cattle production, 3 pathologies, ultrasound of, 57–64
Body condition score (BCS), 4–5 technique in ultrasound, 48–52
Bovine reproductive management ultrasonography and andrological
angus suckled beef cows, 6 examination, 44–45

326 Index
ultrasound technique, 48–49 clinical examination, 84

field results of fertility, 16 clinical visit, 84–85
intravaginal progesterone-releasing tools for professional, 85
device complex RFM-metritis and
five different models of, 9 endometritis, 72

natural service (NS), 4 frontal observation, 78
pregnancy rate, 9 cough and type of cough, 79
sexed-sorted semen, use ears, position, movement, and
Argentinian Angus, data, 14 temperature of, 78
sex ratio, 14 horny shine, tearing (kind of tearing),
SexedULTRA, 15 79
XY Legacy method, 15 interests in food, 78
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ultrasound testicle examination, 48 muzzle, 79
Breeding season (BS), 4 with high temperature, 76
Breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) metabolism of glucose, 70
anatomy, ultrasound, 52–57 method
bull, preparation of, 45–46 cost of elimination, 71
equipment, 46–48 ecological and zootechnical
evaluations, 43 environment, 73–74
pathologies, ultrasound of, 57–64 electronic detection systems, 73
technique in ultrasound, 48–52 farms, rectal temperature, 74
ultrasonography and andrological management program, 71, 73
examination, 44–45 postpartum pathology, 71
ultrasound technique, 48–49 postpartum period, 73
Breeding soundness evaluations (BBSEs), 8 puerperal pathologies, 71
monitoring
C Body Condition core (BCS), 77
farms, 76
Citrate-ethylene acid (EDTA), 231
ketosis test, 77
Code definition in dairy cows
milk production, 78
clinical
tests, 77
characteristics identified, 84
posterior observation
examination, 84
breathing, type and frequency of, 82
visit, 84–85
Eema Sore, udder observation
tools for professional, 85 percentage of, 81
Cryopreservation feces, observation of, 82
extenders, 233–236 locomotion score and mobility score, 81
protocol, 236–237 observation of vagina, 83
Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs), 140 rectal temperature, 83
rumen fill scoring, 80
D shape of abdomen, 81–82
Dairy cows vaginal discharge, 82
affected cow, acronym indicating postpartum pathologies acronyms, 74
pathology of, 75 productive and reproductive
bovine monitoring procedures, 77 performance, 70
code definition transition period, 70
clinical characteristics identified, 84 Dense isotonic compounds, 231

Index 327
Donor age, 162–163 G

Donor breed, 160–161
Gyr cows
Donor health, 171
COCs in, 170
epidural anesthesia, 172
long-term exposure, 171

evaluation relies, 172
histological examination of ovaries, 173
H
ovarian perforation, 172
sequelae noted, 172 Hematocele, 58
vaginal fornix, perforation of, 172
I
E In vitro embryo production (IVEP), 140
Electronic devices, 69 In vitro fertilization (IVF), 247–248
Author Copy
Equine pregnancy, 188 In vitro maturation (IVM), 149
Equine sperm preservation, 228 In vitro production of embryos (IVP), 247
cryopreservation International Embryo Transfer Society
extenders, 233–236 (IETS), 145
protocol, 236–237
semen collection L
ejaculated sperm, 229 Laparoscopic procedure of oocyte
genetic material in horses, 229 collection (L-OPU), 143
seminal plasma, 229
semen preservation techniques M
cryopreservation, 233–237
Marker Assisted Selection or Gene Assisted
lyophilization, 239–241
Selection (MAS/GAS), 174–175
principal vitrification protocols on
Modern cattle health management, 69
stallion sperm, 238
Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer
sperm cooling, 231–233
(MOET) program, 139, 141
sperm vitrification, 237–239
stallion sperm chilled extenders, 233
stallion sperm vitrification process in
N
cryotubes, 238 Negative energy balance (NEB), 5
semen processing
citrate-ethylene acid (EDTA), 231 O
dense isotonic compounds, 231 Ovum pick-up (OPU) in cattle, 139–140
extender function, 231 Association of Embryo Technology in
glucose-EDTA, 231 Europe (AETE), 145, 147
quality evaluation, 230 biological factors, 154
studies, 231 climate and season, 169–170
tests, 230 donor age, 162–163
Tyrode medium, 231 donor breed, 160–161
stallion sperm centrifugation protocols, 231 frequency and timing of follicle
puncture, 155–156
F hormonal stimulation, 163–169
Fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI), individual variations, 158–159
309–310 physiological status and body
Frozen-thawed sperm, 228 condition of donor, 156–158

328 Index
bovine embryos produced, 146 possibilities, 142

in buffaloes pregnant mare serum gonadotropin
gonadotrophin stimulation, 174 (PMSG), 143
MOET programs, 173 in vivo oocyte collection, 142
oocyte recovery, 174 in vivo oocyte retrieval procedure, 141

continuous application, 170 International Embryo Transfer Society
donor health, 171 (IETS), 145
epidural anesthesia, 172 IVEP in, 145
evaluation relies, 172 Assisted Reproductive Technologies
histological examination of ovaries, 173 (ARTs), 175
ovarian perforation, 172 Marker Assisted Selection or Gene
sequelae noted, 172 Assisted Selection (MAS/GAS),
Author Copy
vaginal fornix, perforation of, 172 174–175
equipment and procedure Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL), 174
generic convex array transducers, 147 number of bovine embryos, 146
handgrip, 148 stabilized in Brazil, 147
native endovaginal probes, 147 technical factors, 150
needle, 148 follicular aspiration needles, 151–152
Petri dish, 149 team and operator experience, 154
phosphate buffered saline (PBS), 148 ultrasonography, 153–154
vacuum pump, 148 vacuum pump, 152–153
visualization, 147
in vitro maturation (IVM), 149 P
factors affecting
climate and season, 169–170 Petri dish, 149
donor age, 162–163 Phosphate buffered saline (PBS), 148
donor breed, 160–161 Porcine spermatozoa
follicular aspiration needles, 151–152 egg and fertilization, 249
frequency and timing of follicle in female genital tract, 251–252
puncture, 155–156 fertilization process, 259–260
hormonal stimulation, 163–169 journey of spermatozoa from its
individual variations, 158–159 origin to fertilization site, 256
issue, 150 semen deposition and spermatozoa
physiological status and body transport, 253
condition of donor, 156–158 sperm capacitation process in the
team and operator experience, 154 oviduct, 258
technical factors, 150–154 spermatozoa interaction with uterine
ultrasonography, 153–154 environment, 253–254
vacuum pump, 152–153 spermatozoa-oviduct adhesion and
Gyr cows release, 255–258
COCs in, 170 in male genital tract
long-term exposure, 171 ejaculation, 250–251
historical development testicle and epididymis, 249–250
laparoscopic procedure of oocyte sperm capacitation and fertilization,
collection (L-OPU), 143 260–267
MOET programs, 144 bicarbonate (HCO3 –) concentration,
ovary per rectum, 142 268–269

Index 329
biofluids, 270–271 locomotion score and mobility score,

pH, 269 81
in vitro fertilization (IVF) devices, observation of vagina, 83
271–272 rectal temperature, 83
Postpartum management in dairy cows rumen fill scoring, 80

affected cow, acronym indicating shape of abdomen, 81–82
pathology of, 75 vaginal discharge, 82
bovine monitoring procedures, 77 postpartum pathologies acronyms, 74
code definition productive and reproductive
clinical characteristics identified, 84 performance, 70
clinical examination, 84 transition period, 70
clinical visit, 84–85 Pregnant mare serum gonadotropin
Author Copy
tools for professional, 85 (PMSG), 143
complex RFM-metritis and Pregnant mares, clinical endocrinology
endometritis, 72 endometrial cups, formation of
frontal observation, 78 cells, 195
cough and type of cough, 79 embryo implantation, 192
ears, position, movement, and endometrial glands, 194
temperature of, 78 epidermal growth factor (EGF), 192,
horny shine, tearing (kind of tearing), 195
79 equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG),
interests in food, 78 192–193
muzzle, 79 lymphatic sinuses, 193
with high temperature, 76 maternal–fetal contact, 194
metabolism of glucose, 70 ovarian P4, 193
method pregnenolone (P5) into
cost of elimination, 71 dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA),
ecological and zootechnical 194
environment, 73–74 scatter factor, 192
electronic detection systems, 73 studies, 193
farms, rectal temperature, 74 total estrogen levels, 194
management program, 71, 73 transforming growth factor β1
postpartum pathology, 71 (TGFβ1), 195
postpartum period, 73 transforming growth factor type β
puerperal pathologies, 71 (TGFβ), 192
monitoring VEGF-A family, 195
Body Condition core (BCS), 77 estrogens
farms, 76 cases of placentitis, 212
ketosis test, 77 fetal death and stress, 212
milk production, 78 late gestation, 211
tests, 77 pregnancies, 212
posterior observation production of, 212
breathing, type and frequency of, 82 fetoplacental esteroidogenesis
Eema Sore, udder observation 5αDHP, 198
percentage of, 81 estrogens, 198
feces, observation of, 82 3β-HSD in fetal gonads, 199

330 Index
maternal and umbilical circulation, clinical interpretation of, 203

steroids in, 198 early pregnancy loss (EPL), 202
maternal leukocyte reaction, 196 fetoplacental function, 206
production of progestagens, 198 first pattern, 206–207
progestins, 196 first profile, 207

regression of, 195 foals born, 208
serum levels, 198 GnRH analogous, 204
steroidogenic pathways, 197 hCG treatment of mares, 205
T concentrations, 199 human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
gestation and embryo implantation, administration, 205
maintenance lack of P4 peak, 206
equine gestation, maintenance of, 190 long-acting injectable formulations,
Author Copy
estrone sulfate (E1S), 191–192 205
experimental animals, 190 luteal insufficiency, 202–203
first luteal response of pregnancy, 190 mares, 208–209
interferons (IFN), 191 monitor progestagen profiles of
and its receptor (VEGFR2), 191 mares, 208
maternal recognition of gestation normal hormonal P4, 202
(MGR), 190 oral administration altrenogest, 204
nutritional support, 189 P4 concentrations, 204
PG synthesized and secreted, 191 P4 concentrations measured in blood,
vascular endothelium growth factor 210
(VEGF-A), 191 pathological conditions, 206
late-pregnancy progestagen and estrogen pathological profiles of P4, 205
monitoring periovulatory treatment of mares, 205
DHEA, 200 placentitis group, 209
13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin progesterone, 202–206
F-2α (PGFM), 201 rapid increase, 206
enzyme 15-hydroxyprostaglandin second pattern, 207
dehydrogenase (PGDH), 201 second profile, 207
hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal studies, 210
(HPA) axis, 200 sudden decrease, 206
indicators of FPU function, 200 third pattern, 208
labile nature, 201 third profile, 207–208
maternal plasma levels, 201 Warmblood mares, 205
mitochondrial cytochrome P450, 199 prostaglandins
relaxin, 201 administration of PG synthetase
uteroplacental tissues, 201 inhibitor, 214
mare, abnormal endocrine patterns along fetal maturation, 213–214
pregnancy in flunixin meglumine, 214
early detection, 201 NSAID cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor,
treatments in, 202 214
progestagens PGFM and facilitates, 215
administration, 210 placentitis, 213
administration of GnRH, 205 proinflammatory cytokines, 213
altrenogest, 211 relaxin
chronic placentitis, 209 case of placental hydrops, 213

Index 331
time of ovulation economic value, 113

cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), 189 fertility traits, selection, 113–114
follicular waves, 189 potential trait, 113
FSH acts, 188 variation and heritability, 113
gestation study, 189 herd

hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal health medicine, 91
(HPG) axis, 188 nutrition and feeding systems, 89
oxytocin, 189 novel fertility traits, 116–117
preovulatory follicle, rupture of, 189 nutrition
Body Condition Score (BCS), 111
Q body condition scoring, 110
Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL), 174 energy, 110–111
Author Copy
global improvement of fertility, 109
R β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), 110
minerals and vitamins, 112
Reproduction management, 3
non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), 110
Reproductive efficiency in dairy cows
physiological function, 110
animal welfare, 88
proteins, 111–112
artificial insemination (AIs), 91
reproduction control, 87
dairy cattle welfare
reproductive issues
animal welfare, 118
estrus detection, 105–106
biological functions, 120
factors, 92–93
environmental enrichment, 119–122,
parity, number of calvings, 103–105
120
pregnancy loss, 108–109
heat stress, 122–125
VWP voluntary waiting period,
housing management, 119
107–108
lowering stress levels, 121
synchronization and resynchronization
nutritional enrichment, 122
protocols for TAI, 93
occupational enrichment, 121
GnRH programs, 99–100
physical enrichment, 121
methods, 96
sensory enrichment, 122
stress, 118–119 ovsynch and cosynch, 94–95
stressor, 119 programs including progesterone,
European Union (EU), 88 95, 97
fertility selection prostaglandin F2α programs, 97
deleterious haplotypes, 114 resynchronization programs, 100–103
direct selection on phenotypes timed artificial insemination (TAI), 89
describing fertility, 114 veterinarians, 90
improved fertility, indirect selection veterinary advice in farms, 88
for, 115 Reproductive management, 42
single nucleotide polymorphisms
(SNP), 114 S
first service conception rate, 91 Semen
freestalls and dry-lot systems, 89 collection
genetics, 112 ejaculated sperm, 229
cost and recorded, 113 genetic material in horses, 229
economic improvement, 113 seminal plasma, 229

332 Index
preservation techniques cyst of ovarian bursa, 30

cryopreservation, 233–237 Doppler echo, use, 28
lyophilization, 239–241 follicular dynamics, 25–28
principal vitrification protocols on margin of error, 24
stallion sperm, 238 ovarian neoplasms, 30

sperm cooling, 231–233 ovarian pathologies, 28–30
sperm vitrification, 237–239 ovary dysplasia, 30
stallion sperm chilled extenders, 233 ultrasonography, use, 28
stallion sperm vitrification process in ultrasound evaluation, 27
cryotubes, 238 uterus, physio-pathological pictures
processing of, 25
citrate-ethylene acid (EDTA), 231 veterinarians and breeders, 24
Author Copy
dense isotonic compounds, 231 bovine uterus, pathologies of, 37
extender function, 231 choice of instrument
glucose-EDTA, 231 economical aspect, 23–24
quality evaluation, 230 financial aspect, 23
studies, 231 keyboard, 24
tests, 230 microconvex probes, 24
Tyrode medium, 231 practical aspect, 23
Sexed-sorted semen, use probes, 24
Argentinian Angus, data, 14 screens, 24
sex ratio, 14 non–gravid and gravid bovine uterus, 35
SexedULTRA, 15 ultrasound units
XY Legacy method, 15 extensive breeding, 22
Single layer centrifugation (SLC), 307 LCD screens, 22–23
Sperm capacitation and fertilization, non-portable units, 22
260–267 portable units, 22
bicarbonate (HCO3 –) concentration, ultra-portable units, 22
268–269 uterus evaluation
biofluids, 270–271 embryo viability, 32–33
pH, 269 examination of, 37
in vitro fertilization (IVF) devices, fetal sexing, 33–34
271–272 no pregnancy diagnosis, 31–32
pathological uterus, 36–37
T physiological uterus, 30–31
Timed natural breeding (TNB), 8–9 PMN concentration, 36
Tyrode medium, 231 purulent and muco-purulent
endometritis, 36
U sub-clinical endometritis, 36
twin pregnancy diagnosis, 34–36
Ultrasonographic units and practical uterine content, 36
recommendations Ultrasound anatomy in bovine
bovine gynecology characteristics and reproductive management
indications, 25 external genitalia
in bovine reproduction body of epididymis, 54
cavitary corpus luteum, 26 head of epididymis, 54
corpus luteum, 25–28 penis, 54

Index 333
tail of epididymis, 54 spermatic cord, 62

testicles, 52–53 testicular parenchyma, 57–58
internal genitalia internal genitalia
ampoules, 55 ampoule, 63
bulbourethral glands, 56–57 bulb-urethral glands, 64

pelvic urethra, 57 pelvic urethra, 64
prostate, 57 prostate, 64
vesicular glands, 55–56 vesicular gland, 63
Ultrasound of pathologies Ultrasound technique in bovine
external genitalia reproductive management
abscess capsule, 60 external genitalia
cysts, 61 epididymis, 50
Author Copy
epididymal head, 61–62 penis, 51
epididymal tail, 62 spermatic cord, 50
fibrosis, 59 testicles, 49–50
hematocele, 58 internal genitalia
hematomas, 59 ampoules, 51
hypoplasia, 60 bulb-urethral glands, 51
neoplasia, 60–61 prostate, 51
orchitis, 59 urethra, 52
penis, 62–63 vesicular glands, 51


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