Animal Reproduction Update is an international peer-reviewed open-access online journal that publishes various types of high-quality articles includes original research, review, mini-review, short communication, editorial, commentary, opinion paper, perspective and many more related to animal reproduction such as embryology, andrology, reproductive endocrinology, reproductive genetics, reproductive immunology, infertility, and advanced assisted reproduction. The journal is having a primary interest to provide state-of-the-art coverage on basic, translational, and cutting-edge technologies applied for the advancement in animal reproduction. The published articles shall be useful for teaching, researchers and policymakers as they provide interesting, clearly written updates on important new developments in the subject. Indexing Details: Ebsco, Google Scholar, Base, Crossref, ICI, ASI
Fetal Ascites in a Perosomus Elumbis Fetal Monster in a Cross Bred Cow
A 7-year-old crossbred cow was brought to the Referral Veterinary Polyclinic of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, India, with a history of continuous straining for the past 12 h. Per vaginal examination, the presence of a foetus with severe ascites was revealed. Gross examination confirmed the dead foetus, with the abdominal and thoracic cavities filled with fluid. The condition was successfully managed through obstetrical manipulation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Animal Reproduction Update https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Dystocia Due to a Dicephalic Monstrosity of a Conjoined Twins in a Sahel Breed Doe Goat
A female Sahelian goat was presented to the State Veterinary Clinic in Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria, with a complaint of prolonged and exhaustive straining lasting nine hours. The doe had a history of assisted deliveries and was confirmed to be in a full-term pregnancy. Upon clinical examination, vaginal palpation revealed a fully dilated cervix with a malpresentation of fetal parts (hind limbs of one fetus and a lateral head deviation in the other). Fetal reflexes indicated live fetuses. A cesarean section was performed, resulting in the delivery of three male kids—one normal and a conjoined dicephalic monster.
Buffalo Bull Fertility: Key Factors and Predictive Markers
Buffalo bull fertility is pivotal to reproductive success and genetic improvement in the dairy sector, especially in regions with high buffalo populations such as India. Despite their economic importance, reproductive inefficiencies, most notably low conception rates after artificial insemination, remain major challenges. Male fertility is a complex trait influenced by sperm quality, seminal plasma composition, hormonal and biochemical profiles, genetic determinants, and environmental factors. Key functional markers associated with high fertility include elevated sperm motility (total 77.6%, progressive 73.73%), membrane and acrosome integrity (74.17% and 92.83%, respectively) in fertile bulls versus significantly lower values in sub-fertile animals. Important seminal plasma biochemical markers such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) are all higher in fertile buffalo bulls, for example, LH at 0.28 ± 0.02 mU/ mL and testosterone at 0.53 ± 0.02 ng/mL in fertile animals. Fertile bulls also show superior antioxidant capacity (TAC, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and nitric oxide) and lower oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA). Proteomic studies have identified differentially abundant sperm proteins such as AKAP3, AKAP4, Sp17, and PDIA3 (upregulated in high fertility) while DLD is downregulated, all strongly linked to sperm motility, structural integrity, and zona pellucida binding. Transcriptomic profiling further highlights up-regulated hub genes (e.g., RPL36AL, EIF5A, RPLP0) as promising molecular markers for sperm quality and fertility assessment. Integrating conventional semen analysis with molecular technologies, including omics-based biomarker identification, offers improved accuracy in fertility prediction and supports effective selection of breeding bulls. These strategies are essential for optimizing reproductive outcomes, minimizing economic losses, and advancing sustainable buffalo productivity.
Vitrification of Bovine Embryos: Can it Replace Slow Freezing?
The ability to effectively cryopreserve embryos plays a critical role in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) by facilitating the global exchange of valuable genetics and minimizing disease transmission risks. However, a key challenge lies in ensuring the post-thaw viability of cryopreserved embryos, particularly in vitro produced (IVP) embryos, which exhibit lower cryotolerance than their in vivo counterparts. This study assessed the suitability of vitrification as an alternative to the slow freezing method for cryopreservation of bovine IVP embryos. The research compared the effectiveness of vitrification using high-security vitrification (HSV) straws, a closed system, with two different slow-freezing protocols (0.3°C/min and 0.5°C/min). Blastocyst and expanded blastocyst stage embryos produced through ovum pick-up (OPU) and in vitro embryo production were subjected to each cryopreservation method and then thawed and cultured to assess their viability, re expansion, and hatching rates. The vitrified group demonstrated significantly higher hatching rates (47.7%) than both slow freezing groups (10.6% for 0.5°C/min and 26.4% for 0.3°C/min). While vitrification resulted in higher viability and expansion rates than the 0.5°C/min slow freezing group, it was higher in the 0.3°C/min group in both parameters. Hatching from the zona pellucida is a prerequisite for successful implantation, and the hatching rate was higher in the vitrified embryos, indicating a potential advantage in terms of implantation readiness. These findings suggest that vitrification may offer higher pregnancy rates as indicated by higher hatching rates. The results may be further validated through embryo transfer studies to assess its impact on actual pregnancy success rates.
high-security vitrification (HSV) straws
Os Penis Fracture Resulting in Urethral Obstruction in a Dog: A Case Report
Fracture of the os penis (FOP) is a rare and underreported condition in dogs that can result in serious complications, including urethral obstruction. This report documents the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and successful surgical management of a 7-year-old male mongrel dog with urethral obstruction secondary to an os penis fracture. The dog presented with pollakiuria, dysuria, penile swelling, abdominal distension, and urinary dribbling. Clinical examination revealed a distended bladder and pain on urination, and catheterization was unsuccessful. Radiographic imaging (ventrodorsal and lateral views) confirmed a fracture of the os penis, while ultrasonography revealed urinary bladder distension and urethral dilation proximal to the fracture. Surgical correction involved scrotal urethrostomy and castration under general anaesthesia. Pre-medication included glycopyrrolate, diazepam, and butorphanol, followed by induction with propofol and maintenance with isoflurane. The urethral mucosa was sutured to the skin using non-absorbable polyamide 3-0 sutures, and a urinary catheter was placed to maintain patency. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with restoration of normal urination and a reduction in serum creatinine to 1.2 mg/dL. This case highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention in os penis fractures complicated by urethral obstruction.
Early Embryonic Mortality in Bovines: Current Insights and Interventions
Early embryonic mortality (EEM) is a critical reproductive challenge in bovines, significantly impacting fertility, milk production, and farm economics. Despite high fertilization rates, embryonic losses during the first 24 days of gestation remain a major bottleneck in achieving optimal conception rates. This review synthesizes current understanding of the multifactorial aetiology of EEM, encompassing genetic, endocrine, immunological, nutritional, environmental, and managerial factors. Species, breed, age, parity, milk yield, and stress are all associated with increased embryonic loss. Endocrine disruptions such as luteal phase defects and inadequate progesterone levels are frequently implicated. Immune system dysfunction, including maternal fetal immunological incompatibility and subclinical infections, further compromises embryo viability. Diagnostic tools such as early pregnancy factor, preimplantation factor, progesterone assays, ultrasonography, and pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) allow early detection of EEM. Therapeutic interventions include hormonal supplementation (GnRH, hCG, progesterone, kisspeptin), immunomodulators, endometrial receptor modulators, and nutritional strategies such as omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and insulin-based regimens. Assisted reproductive technologies like embryo transfer and embryo co-transfer offer promising alternatives for repeat breeder animals. Preventive strategies emphasize precise AI timing, estrus detection, heat stress mitigation, and improved nutritional management to enhance uterine receptivity and embryo survival. This review underscores the need for integrated, individualized approaches to managing EEM, combining diagnostics with targeted therapeutic and environmental interventions. Future research directions include identifying novel biomarkers, refining genomic selection for fertility traits, and leveraging AI-based tools for real-time reproductive monitoring. A comprehensive understanding of EEM pathophysiology, coupled with evidence-based interventions, is essential to improve reproductive efficiency and sustainability in dairy production systems.
Management of Dystocia in Buffalo by Partial Percutaneous Fetotomy: A Case Report
A five-year-old, nondescript buffalo in her third parity, with a history of 9 months of gestation, in labour pain since 12h, was presented at the Referral Veterinary Polyclinic, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, with no further progression and a ruptured water bag. It was previously attended by a paravet in the morning with faulty manual traction, causing the forelimbs to track outside the vulva up to the fetlock joint with no further progression. Clinical examination revealed an increase in respiration and pulse rate with rectal temperature 102.6ºF was recorded. On per rectal and per vaginal examination, there was complete dilation of the cervix, the foetal presentation was anterior longitudinal dorso-sacral position, and the head and neck were extremely downward deviated in terms of posture, while the forelimbs were outside the vulva up to the fetlock joint. Successful management of dystocia with partial percutaneous fetotomy and mutational operation was performed with uneventful recovery of the animal.
Effect of Oral Administration of Royal Jelly towards Fertility Performance of Rabbit through Artificial Insemination
The rabbit livestock industry is rising rapidly as an alternative protein source in Malaysia. As the global population increases, alternative food sources such as rabbit-based products are important for meeting human demand for livestock products. Optimization of rabbit production relies on reproductive technology. Assisted reproduction technologies (ART) like artificial insemination (AI) are being introduced to the farmer to maximize the production of the rabbit industry. However, local livestock farmers still need to improve their knowledge and technique. Thus, this study aims to investigate the fertility rate of does using artificial insemination compared to natural mating (NM) and to determine the effect of different concentrations of oral administration of royal jelly (RJ) on semen fertility in rabbits. A total of 12 bucks and 20 does of American White rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were used, with ages between 7 to 12 months and average body weights of 2.5 to 3 kg. The bucks were assigned to 4 experimental groups for oral administration: (a) control A, 0 mg/kg of royal jelly; (b) control B, 0 mg/kg of royal jelly; (c) treatment 1, 100 mg/kg of royal jelly; and (d) treatment 2, 50 mg/kg of royal jelly. Control A rabbit was mated naturally, while the other groups were mated using AI. Sperm quality was evaluated through physical criteria: volume, colour, pH, odour, and viscosity. Pregnancy diagnosis (manual abdominal palpation, real-time ultrasound) was performed to evaluate the conception rate of the doe. The result that the conception rate of natural mating (83.33%) was higher compared to artificial insemination (16.13%). Moreover, oral administration of royal jelly showed a negative effect on the conception rate of does, where 0 mg/kg of royal jelly showed 36.36%, 100 mg/kg showed 0%, and 50 mg/kg showed 10% of conception rate.
Dystocia due to Breech Presentation of Dicephalus Tetrabrachius Dipus Is chiopagus and Dicaudatus Monster in Buffalo: A Case Report
A rare case of conjoined twin monsters (Dicephalus tetrabrachius, Dipus ischiopagus, and Dicaudatus) was in breech presentation, delivered per vaginum in a pluriparous Murrah buffalo. The twin monster consists of two male fetuses, each possessing separate sets of structures, including two heads, two pairs of forelimbs connected to the ischial region, one pair of hindlimbs, and two tails.
Surgical Management of Over-gestation in a Female Dog: A Case Report
A 2-year-old female dog was brought to VCC, LUVAS, with a history of overgestation (68 days’ pregnancy). After a complete gynaeco-clinical examination, a caesarean section was performed, and 5 foetuses including one mummified foetus were delivered. The female dog recovered uneventfully following normal postoperative management.
A three and half year oldNon-Discript cow was presented to Veterinary Clinical Complex, COVAS, Udgir with the history of completion of gestation period and appearance of first water bag before two hours.Per-vaginal examination revealed that fetus is in posterior longitudinal presentation and fetal abdomen is fluid filled, larger in size, bulky, distended. The case was diagnosed as dystocia due to fetal ascites.Incision was given on fetal abdomen to drain the excessive fluid using Robert’s Guarded knife Following reduction, Dead male fetus was delivered successfully by two way coordinated traction.
Copyright (c) 2024 Animal Reproduction Update https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Incomplete Cervical Dilation with Fetal Mummification in Goat: A Case Report
The current case details the successful management of dystocia in a goat due to incomplete cervical dilation and fetal mummification. The ‘Referral Veterinary Polyclinic’, ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar received the animal, which had a history of brownish-red vaginal discharge and straining for 5 h. Per-vaginal examination revealed a fetal mass lodged in the reproductive tract with incomplete cervical dilation. Induction therapy was administered to facilitate cervical dilation, allowing for the manual extraction of the mummified fetus. After three days of postoperative treatment, the goat recovered without complications.
Obstetrical Management of Dystocia due to Schistosoma Reflexus in A Murrah Buffalo
A very rare birth defect called Schistosomus reflexus (SR) causes the thoracic and abdominal organs to be exposed. The foetus also has a lot of spinal angulation, which makes the vertebral column curve in a clear way at the bottom. Ruminants most frequently exhibit reflexus (Bezek and Frazer, 1994), while various species have reported the pres- ence of a congenital schistocoelia (Pivnick et al., 1998). SR has been frequently reported in cattle, buffalo, and occa- sionally in sheep, goats, and other species (Robert, 1971; Rajoria et al., 2023) with an occurrence of 0.01 to 1.3% (Sloss, 1967; Knight, 1996) worldwide. SR occurs as early as the post-gastrulation embryo and involves the intermedi- ate mesoderm. This condition belongs to a family of defor- mities involving failure of complete closure of the ventral aspect of the fetal body wall. In humans, thoraco-abdomi- nal syndrome (TAS) displays striking similarities with the SR monster (Pivnick et al., 1998). Furthermore, there is a possibility of a genetic cause in which the fetus carriesrecessive genes from dam as well as sire, leading to defec- tive embryonic development. However, only the cases that display both visceral exposure and spinal inversion are considered true SR (Laughton et al., 2005). The exact aeti- ology of this anomaly is unknown, but it may be due to genetic factors, mutations, chromosomal anomalies, infec- tious agents, environmental factors, or a combination of all these factors (Noakes et al., 2019).
Medical Termination of Pregnancy in Queen
Cats routinely undergo medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) to control reproduction by terminating unwanted pregnancies. Post-coital contraception, also known as emergency contraception or pregnancy termination, are indeed common procedures in veterinary practices for companion animals like bitches and queens. Typically, a veterinarian guides these procedures, which may involve medications or surgical interventions based on the pregnancy stage and specific circumstances. Pet owners must discuss their options with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action for their animal’s health and well-being, taking into account factors such as the dam’s age, health issues, or low breeding value offspring. Medical termination of pregnancy has more demand in feline practice due to the higher incidence of unwanted pregnancy for their feral nature. In such cases, termination of pregnancy may be achieved by using only one medicament or a combination of two or more medicaments. A combination of either natural or synthetic analogues of prostaglandin F2 and dopamine agonists or anti-progestins yielded good results in healthy bitches and queens with confirmed pregnancy. Regular sonographic examinations and vaginal discharge observation follow to confirm the loss of pregnancy. At certain times, blockage of two hormones, i.e., prolactin and progesterone, is used, which has high success rates for MTP in small animals. The benefits of combined administration include low doses with fewer side effects. Considering all such issues, this treatise deals with indications for MTP, symptoms to identify pregnancy, especially in feral cats, and the application of various protocols for successful results with uneventful outcomes.
Manegement of Dystocia due to Acute Extreme Lateral Deviation of Head and Neck in Cattle: A Case Report
A primiparous five-year-old non-descript cow was presented to the Referral Veterinary Polyclinic, ICAR-IVRI, with a history of complete gestation, frequent straining, rupture of the water bag without any further progress in labor since the last 12 hours, and a failed attempt of manual foetal extraction by the local veterinarian. After conducting a general clinical examination, all the vital parameters were recorded. A per-rectal examination followed by a per-vaginal examination was carried out to determine the presentation, position, and posture of the foetus. The foetal forelimbs were lying in the birth canal, although the foetal head and neck were extremely deviated laterally and lodged very deep in the uterus around the hind limbs. Different obstetrical maneuvers were performed to correct the foetal disposition, followed by the successful extraction of a dead female foetus. The dam was stable and successfully given postoperative therapy. A follow-up had been carried out for up to one week, and the animal was recovered uneventfully.
A rare case of congenital anomalies of hydrocephalus, cystic cephalus, microphthalmia and cleft lip on foetus – a case report
A 6-year-old Holstein Friesian cross breed cattle was presented at Nettur veterinary dispensary in Tenkasi district. The cattle owner reported straining of the animal for 4 hours since morning, the serosanguinous mucoid discharge was noticed from the vulva. Vaginal examination revealed completely dilated cervix and presentation of the foetus head filled with fluid in-between both the hind limbs. To relieve the dystocia the foetus head was punctured with BP blade and the accumulated fluid was drained out followed by application of the obstetrical long eye hook on the eye and with snare on the forelimbs to expel out the fetus. The fluid therapy, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory was administered for five days
Cervicotomy for the management of dystocia due to prepartum cervico-vagino prolapse and Incomplete Cervical Dilation (ICD) in cow: A case report
A cow was presented to the Referral Veterinary Polyclinic, ICAR-IVRI, with a primary complaint of third-degree cervico-vaginal prolapse. All the vital parameters were within the normal range. A per-rectal examination revealed that the foetus was viable. Further, per-vaginal examination explored a dry vaginal passage with an incompletely dilated (2-finger) cervical rim. The animal was given dilation therapy along with periodic cervical massage and observed for 36 hours. There was no significant dilation of cervix (one feast) and first cervical ring which was relatively hard preventing the complete dilation, therefore, it was decided to opt for cervicotomy and live female calf had been delivered.
Therapeutics and management of persistent cases of Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumour: an Update
Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumour (CTVT) is a contagious venereal tumour in dogs. It is mostly transmitted through sexual contact but can also spread through sniffing, licking, biting, and scratching the affected area. It is a contagious tumour, mostly prevalent in mongrels, in dogs exhibiting high levels of sexual activity coupled with roaming behaviour in tropical and subtropical climates. Recently, the incidence of TVT has been found to be increasing, especially in urban areas, where pet parents often come across their animals showing oozing of serosanguinous fluid from anomalous tumorous growth in external genitalia. This frequently turns out to be TVT. Cytological and histopathological findings are used to make a definitive diagnosis. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, with chemotherapy often being the preferred choice. In recent times pet owners have reported recurrence of the case confirmed earlier as TVT. This has further implication of development of toxicity due to repeated use of chemotherapy. This necessitates an urgency to review the current therapeutic approaches and reformulate them with effective alternative regimens. Lately, several new therapeutic protocols have been developed for TVT, which are very promising, especially for the cases that have shown resistance and recurrence to certain treatments. It is imperative that treating veterinarian besides being thorough about therapeutic knowledge, especially dosage calculation (Body weight vs body surface area) should also get acquainted with preventive and control measures. This particular paper captures the manifold developments in different areas dealing with therapeutic alternatives, prevention, and control of TVT.
Sticker’s sarcoma, Diagnosis, Treatment, Vincristine, Lomustine
CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF DYSTOCIA DUE TO FETAL ASCITES IN A BUFFALO (BUBALUS BUBALIS)
The present communication reports a rare case of dystocia in a four and half year old she-buffalo due to fetal ascites with posterior presentation, relieved using abdominocentesis and forced traction at veterinary clinical complex, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, UP. The cow was recovered uneventfully.
Copyright (c) 2023 Animal Reproduction Update https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Buffaloes are ‘Black Gold’ not Black Cows
Buffalo and cow, both are vital to global agricultural landscapes; possess distinct traits that shape their roles in farming. Despite belonging to the Bovidae family, buffaloes excel in resilience and adaptability to harsh environments, while cows thrive in temperate climates. Their evolutionary history reveals separate domestication events, with buffaloes originating later, around 3,000–7,000 years ago. Their chromosome numbers and breeding patterns reflect their genetic differences. Anatomically, buffaloes exhibit unique digestive, reproductive, and thermoregulatory adaptations, influencing productivity. Buffalo milk, richer in fat and solids, surpasses cow milk in nutritional value, driving its prominence in global dairy markets. FAO data indicates a notable surge in buffalo milk production, outpacing that of cows global. This perspective review discusses the diverse benefits of buffalo and highlights the importance of distinguishing between buffaloes and cows in order to comprehend their crucial contributions to agricultural livelihoods and global culinary traditions.
Curcumin supplementation ameliorates heat stress and affects early embryonic development
The temperature-humidity index (THI) is used to present the environmental factors causing heat stress. Heat stress's effects on the effectiveness of reproduction have been extensively studied and reported. The length of endocrine state, estrus, follicular growth and development, fertilization, conception rate, uterine function, luteolytic processes, early embryonic development, and fetal growth have all been demonstrated that altered by heat stress. Heat stress is considered to cause oxygen-derived free radicals, or reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or superoxide anion, to be produced in oocytes/embryos, hence inducing oxidative stress. Antioxidants, both enzymatic and non-enzymatic, provide vital defense against oxidative damage caused by heat stress. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-infectious, and antioxidant properties, it is widely used in many biological and medical fields. Curcumin uses this process to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and when added to the culture media during in vitro culture, protect the embryos from ROS and encourage embryo growth as well as fetal development. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the role of curcumin during heat stress and embryonic development.
Dystocia due to polymelia calf in cattle – a case report
The veterinarian presented a 5-year-old HF crossbred cow with a full-termpregnancy that caused severe abdominal strain. On per-vaginal examination, thecervix was found to be fully dilated, with palpable multiple limbs of the foetus.After proper lubrication of the birth canal, the foetus was successfully deliveredThe veterinarian diagnosed the condition as polymelia of the hind limbs. Thepostoperative care of the cow included treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. The cow had an uneventful recovery in about 9–10 days.
Protective Efficacy of Cholesterol-Loaded Cyclodextrin (CLC) Against Sperm Morphological Abnormalities in Marwari Stallions
The present study aimed to examine the protective potential of cholesterol loaded cyclodextrin (CLC) at varying concentrations against sperm morphological abnormalities of cooled and frozen thawed semen of Marwari stallions. A total of forty eight ejaculates (six stallions and eight ejaculates per stallion) were promptly processed following semen collection and subjected to gross assessment of semen quality attributes. The assessment of sperm morphologies in fresh equine semen was conducted using Eosin and Nigrosine staining technique. The semen samples from individual Marwari stallions were evenly divided into five fractions and incubated in a water bath at 37°C for 15 min after dilution with primary extender to obtain the spermatozoa concentration at 120 × 106 sperm/ml. During incubation, the fractions of every semen sample were exposed to different concentrations of CLC as 0, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 3.0 mg/ml of extender (C, T1, T2,T3, and T4, respectively). All the 5 aliquots were cooled and subsequently subjected to cryopreservation. Each cooled and frozen- thawed (at 37°C for 30 sec) semen samples were analyzed to assess the morphologies of the spermatozoa. Based on the findings, it was concluded that none of the CLC treatment could render any significant protection against the sperm morphological abnormalities at either pre-freeze and/or post-thaw stage of semen samples from Marwari stallions.
Comparative Protein Profiling of Blood and Milk of Early Pregnant Buffaloes Using SDS-PAGE
Conventional methods for detecting pregnancy in buffalo are inefficient before 30-days after artificial insemination. A proteomic approach for high-resolution analysis of blood plasma and milk proteins by SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) is of great importance. Blood and milk samples were collected on days 0 (before insemination) and 20 and 25 after insemination from retrospective pregnant (n = 6) and non-pregnant (n = 6) animals. An equal volume of samples was loaded in (12%-4%) SDS gel to resolve major plasma and milk proteins. Plasma proteins showed three distinct zones – high, medium, and low molecular weight (MW). In the high MW zone (135 - 250 kDa), ~208 kDa and ~190 kDa proteins were visible. In the moderate MW zone (60 -75 kDa), 5-6 proteins like albumin (~70 kDa), 75 kDa, and 63 kDa consisting of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins, ~73 kDa being dominant. In the low MW zone (25 – 35 kDa), a clear band of 27 kDa was visible. Proteins in milk supernatants showed four distinct zones of proteins – very high, high, medium, and low molecular weight (MW) zones. In the very high MW zone (135 - 250 kDa), ~208 kDa and ~190 kDa proteins were visible. In the high MW zone (60 -75 kDa), proteins like lactoferrin (~78.2 kDa), 73 kDa, albumen (~66 kDa), and a heavy chain of immunoglobulin (IgG) (~54 kDa) were detected. In the medium MW zone (25 – 35 kDa), clear bands of milk caseins, namely thick alpha S2 casein (29 kDa), and other caseins. In the low MW zone (11 – 20 kDa), two thick bands of 18 kDa and 12 kDa were visible. The mean gray values (sum of the gray values of all the pixels in the peak divided by the number of pixels) of the 73 kDa protein peak were analyzed in two-way ANOVA using GraphPad (ver 8.0). Repeated measures of ANOVA were selected where pregnancy status (pregnant and non-pregnant) defined column factor and time (0-, 20- and 25-day) defined row factor. The expression of 73 kDa protein in blood plasma was higher (P = 0.04) in pregnant women than in non-pregnant buffaloes at 20- and 25-days after insemination. However, in milk, there was no difference in the expression of the 73 kDa protein between pregnant and non-pregnant buffaloes across time. Variation in animals within the groups was significantly high. The differential expression of ~73 kDa protein in plasma and precise identification of the protein can be a diagnostic marker for early pregnancy detection in buffaloes.
Management of dystocia due to Schistosomus Reflexus - a case report
Schistosomare flexus are a major congenital anomaly which occurs during embryonic development. Schistosomare flexus are characterized by incomplete fusion of abdominal wall leading to exposed viscera and marked ventral curvature of spine. A genetic or chromosomal abnormality, mutation, chromosomal anomaly, infectious agent, or a combination of these factors may be the cause, although its etiology is unknown. A Holstein Friesian (HF) cross-bred cow of 4 years with straining and fetal intestine hanging through the vulva was presented to the veterinary clinical complex for parturition failure. Thus, it was diagnosed as a case of Schistosomare flexus. With per vaginal examination it was further confirmed that visceral organs were from the fetus. Therefore, it was decided to remove the fetus through caesarean section.
Management of vulvar hypoplasia by performing episiotomy in cow - a case report
A crossbred cow was admitted with the history of dystocia was examined and diagnosed as a case of dystocia due to congenital vulvar stenosis. Per vaginal examination of a crossbred heifer presented for the treatment of dystocia revealed vulvar stenosis and persistent hymen. Episiotomy followed by the excision of transverse band of persistent hymen lead to per vaginal delivery of fetus.
FETAL MUMMIFICATION IN GOAT: A CASE REPORT
A three year old non-descript goat in fourth parity was presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complexes, COVAS, Udgir with the history of straining and vaginal discharge for last four to five hours. One live male fetus was delivered through obstetrical maneuvers which followed the delivery of mummified fetus. The goat was treated with fluid therapy, antibiotics, NSAID and antihistamines.
Role of MicroRNAs in Mammalian Reproduction
MicroRNAs are small, endogenous, non-coding RNA molecules that are around 19-25 nucleotides long. Most miRNAs are produced via transcription of DNA sequences into primary miRNAs, precursor miRNAs, and then mature miRNAs. These miRNA molecules base-pair to mRNAs to control gene expression post-transcriptionally. Mammalian genome now has over 2000 annotated miRNAs which are thought to influence one-third of the genes in the genome since each miRNA can regulate hundreds of target genes. miRNAs are involved in morphogenesis, tissue maintenance, cell development, differentiation, apoptosis, and metabolism etc. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of the role of miRNAs in various stages of mammalian reproductive biology and their involvement in reproductive disorders. We have also summarized the recent advances about miRNA and provide an updated overview of the literature, including the most recent and relevant studies.
Fertility Augmentation of Non-Descript Delayed Pubertal Cattle Heifers through Mineral Mixture Supplementation and Hormonal Intervention
Normal productive and reproductive behavior in domestic animal is closely associated with interaction between hormonal and nutritional status of the animal system. Twenty-four non-descript delayed pubertal cattle of Rewa district, aged between 3-5 years were used to study the effect of dietary mineral mixture supplementation and double PG protocol on reproductive performance. Cows were randomly allocated into four equal groups (A, B, C & D), comprising three treatment groups (n=6), and control (n=6) group. Control group was fed ration containing same CP and energy level according to the body weight. Group A (n=6) was fed ration containing 0% mineral mixture feeding in total per day. Group B (n=6) was fed ration containing mineral mixture 1 % of ration feeding in total per day diet. Group C (n=6) were subjected for double PG protocol and GnRH. Group D (n=6) was fed ration containing mineral mixture 1 % of ration and double PG protocol and GnRH. Group D has slightly more progesterone levels comparison to group C because of pregnancy in more cows. Plasma progesterone concentration of B, C and D Group, which supplemented with mineral mixture and hormonal protocol were significantly high. At 60-day Group A and C has similar values of progesterone. Group D has low Estrogen values due to more number or non-cyclic cows then other groups. Mineral concentrations were also significantly high in treatment groups comparatively. Pregnancy rate obtained in non-descript delayed pubertal heifers after artificial insemination was recorded as 83.33% in Group D, while it was 100% in all other three groups. Estrus submission rate is 33.33%, 50.00%, 66.66% and 83.33 % in all four groups, respectively. Accordingly reproductive efficiency calculated in experimental groups is 33.33, 50.00, 66.66 and 69.44, respectively. Combination of hormonal protocol with mineral mixture supplementation showed comparatively better result with respect to submission rate and reproductive efficiency.
ROLE OF CO-OPERATIVE NETWORK FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF BOVINE FEMALE INFERTILITY DISORDERS IN GUJARAT
The co-operative network in Gujarat, India, has given the livestock sector a new direction for growth. The co-operative sector's dairy husbandry department not only deals with treatment of ill animals but conducts extensive management programmes for infertility. Various programmes like fertility improvement programmes, calf rearing programme, ration balancing programme, productivity enhancement programme, village awareness progress, and training of artificial inseminators are in operation for fertility enhancement. The present review describes the impact of these programmes on fertility based on collected data from various co-operatives of Gujarat.