Effects of Repeated Follicular Punctures on Ovarian Morphology and Endocrine Parameters in Dairy Heifers

• DOI: 10.1046/j.1439-0442.2001.00375.x
• Publication Date: 2003-03-12T09:10:58Z
• Authors: S. Petyim; R. Båge; M. Forsberg; H. Rodríguez‐Mart...; B. Larsson
• Keywords: Prostaglandin F2alpha

Three experimental and three control heifers were included in the study. After a period (CP), subjected to 4 5 weeks of twice‐weekly follicular punctures (FPP1 FPP2) with two oestrous cycles between. The performed using ovum pick‐up (OPU) technique. During CP FPPs, ovarian activity was monitored by transrectal ultrasonography analyses plasma progesterone, prostaglandin F 2α (PGF ) metabolite, luteinizing hormone (LH), oestradiol follicle stimulating (FSH) levels. animals slaughtered 7 days after cessation FPP2 their ovaries examined. for cyclicity then ovariectomized Despite absence ovulation, formation corpus luteum (CL)‐like structures could be ultrasonographically observed during FPPs. These either had characteristics comparable those CLs (group 1) or smaller shorter life span (or) luteal active phase lower progesterone production 2). In group 1, CL‐like emanated from large‐sized follicles on close which showed oestrus rise LH. 2, developed smaller‐sized no nor detectable LH revealed around punctures. most basal level at zero. all significant FSH occurred day following puncture. To conclude, repeated puncture appeared alter slightly endocrine profiles cause minor morphological changes ovaries. Both macro‐ microscopic examinations presence various sizes studied. connective tissue tunica albuginea significantly thicker than that controls ( P < 0.001).