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Simple Summary: Simple Summary: Hormonal treatment seems less effective than expected, and it is not a cost-efficient option for solving an anestrous problem in dairy cows under field conditions in tropical countries. To assess whether this evidence is correct, this retrospective study retrieved the clinical records of anestrous cows that received hormonal treatment before artificial insemination (AI) from the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. The results showed that pregnancy success was influenced by hormone treatment protocol, body condition score (BCS) upon hormone treatment, housing conditions, and season. The fixed-time AI (TAI) is the effective method for treating both cyclic and noncyclic anestrous dairy cows due to the high pregnancy risk (PR). However, the cost-efficiency analysis showed that the hormone treatment protocols with estrus detection before AI (EAI) were the most cost-efficient option for cyclic cows. In contrast, the TAI protocols were only appropriate for noncyclic cows. This study emphasized that hormonal treatment is still an effective technique for improving reproductive efficiency in anestrous cattle. However, farmers and veterinarians in tropical countries should be aware of the animal's health, environmental conditions, farm and management conditions, and the cost-efficiency of treatment protocols before making the treatment decision. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the performance of hormone treatment protocols, determine the factors associated with pregnancy success after hormone treatment, and compare the cost-efficiencies of two types of hormone treatment among cyclic and noncyclic anestrous dairy cows. The clinical records of 279 anestrous cows that received hormone treatment for artificial insemination (AI) from 64 herds in the western region of Thailand were obtained from Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital from January to August 2017. The performance of the hormone treatment protocols, fixed-time AI (TAI) and estrus detection before AI (EAI), showed that the pregnancy risk for the TAI protocol was higher than that for the EAI protocol, but pregnancy per AI did not differ significantly between the two protocols in cyclic and noncyclic cows. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that cows receiving the TAI protocol were more likely to be pregnant compared to those treated with the EAI protocol. Cows with a 3.00 body condition score (BCS) < 3.75 after treatment and loose-housed cows were more likely to become pregnant. Treatment during winter showed higher pregnancy success than that in the summer and rainy seasons. The cost-efficiency analysis showed that the TAI protocol was the most cost-efficient option for noncyclic cows, whereas the EAI protocol was the most cost-efficient option for cyclic cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inactive ovaries of cattle caused a significant economic loss, so the current study is intended to recover and enhance the fertility of dairy cattle suffering from anestrus by kisspeptin-10. Forty Holstein Friesian cows, aged 3.5-6.8 years with inactive ovaries for 60-70 days of postpartum, were distributed randomly into four equal groups. The control (C) group administered 5 mL intramuscularly (I.M) of normal saline, Gn group administered 0.5 mg/animal I.M of GnRH. K1 and K2 were administered with 6 μg/kg BW I.M and 12 μg/kg BW I.M of kisspeptin-10, respectively. After heat signs were detected, artificial insemination was performed. Blood samples were collected at 0, 2, 6, 24, and 72 hours post-hormonal injection to estimate fertility hormones, and fecundity features were demonstrated after hormonal treatment and after twelve months. The current results noted a significant (p<0.05) increment in estradiol, FSH, and LH in K1 and K2 cows compared to Gn and C at 6-24 h post hormonal treatment, while progesterone showed a significant (p<0.05) drop in K1, Gn, and K2 in comparison with C. Also, the calving and fertility rates were significantly higher (p<0.05) in K2 and K1 compared with Gn and C after hormonal treatment and after one year. The kisspeptin-10 injection improved the fertility of anestrus cows by enhancing the reproductive hormonal profile and fertility traits for long-term effects and without requiring a second kisspeptin-10 injection in Holstein Friesian cows; therefore, administration of kisspeptin-10 can be regarded as an alternative application of using some hormones like GnRH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inactive ovaries of cattle caused a significant economic loss, so the current study is intended to recover and enhance the fertility of dairy cattle suffering from anestrus by kisspeptin-10. Forty Holstein Friesian cows, aged 3.5-6.8 years with inactive ovaries for 60-70 days of postpartum, were distributed randomly into four equal groups. The control (C) group administered 5 mL intramuscularly (I.M) of normal saline, Gn group administered 0.5 mg/animal I.M of GnRH. K1 and K2 were administered with 6 μg/kg BW I.M and 12 μg/kg BW I.M of kisspeptin-10, respectively. After heat signs were detected, artificial insemination was performed. Blood samples were collected at 0, 2, 6, 24, and 72 hours post-hormonal injection to estimate fertility hormones, and fecundity features were demonstrated after hormonal treatment and after twelve months. The current results noted a significant (p

Stress is a strong barrier to dairy animal reproduction and, hence, poses an alarming threat to combat it. The economic sustainability of a dairy herd mainly depends on getting utmost reproductive efficiency. In contrast to extensive research on infectious diseases, nutrition, infertility etc. less is known about animal welfare and its interaction on reproductive efficiency. Animal welfare means paying attention to animal's social relation, environment, climate and availability of adlib food and water. Welfare is a condition in which animals do not feel a mental or physical discomfort and do not feel stress or pain. A loss of welfare brings the animals into stress, which affects their production and reproduction. The natural, physical and environmental factors affecting animals are air temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation, atmospheric pressure and wind speed. Summer stress reduces productive and reproductive efficiency of dairy animal. The neuroendocrine mechanism of heat stress has been extensively reviewed. Heat stress compromises hypothalamic GnRH secretion, and circulating concentration of LH and FSH reduces. In addition, there is also evidence that HS affects follicular dynamics and ovulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For understanding the molecular events underlying the follicular (F) and luteal (L) phases of estrous cycle, and anestrous (A) phase, the pars tuberalis (PT), and hypothalamus (HT) transcriptomes of 21 ewes were studied. In HT, 72 and 3 differential expression genes (DEGs) were found when comparing F vs. A and L vs. A, respectively. In PT, 6 and 4 DEGs were found in F vs. A and L vs. A comparisons, respectively. Enrichment analysis for DEGs between the F and A phases in the HT revealed significant clusters, mainly associated with actin-binding, and cytoskeleton, that are related to neural plasticity modulated by gonadal steroid hormones, as well as with oxytocin signaling. We found that DEGs in PT had higher differences in expression levels than those found in HT. In this sense, the ITLN was highly upregulated in the F and L vs. A phases, being MRPL57 and IRX4 highly downregulated in L vs. A comparison. The DDC gene in PT, related to LH regulation, was upregulated in the F phase. The gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed multiple pathways related to neurotransmission and neuronal plasticity. Our study reveals new candidate genes involved in the reproductive stages' transitions in seasonal sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This study was performed during the anestrous, involving 140 Akkaraman Kangal ewes whose lambs had died in the neonatal stage due to pneumonia and enteritis. Intravaginal sponge containing progesterone was placed to the animals (Group 1, n = 70) on day 0 and removed after 7 days, following which 263 µg PGF2α and 500 IU eCG were administered to the sheep. Ram introduction was performed for 7 days (days 8-14), starting from the day after the removal of the intravaginal sponge (day 8). The animals in Group 2 (n = 70) were not exposed to any treatment. Ram introduction was performed simultaneously in both the groups. To determine the reproductive response, reproductive parameters such as estrous, pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, and embryonic mortality rates, number of births, number of offspring, and fertility, as well as their economic implications, were compared between groups. Each reproductive parameter exhibited a statistical difference between groups. An economically positive trend was observed in the study group compared with the control group. It was concluded that in case of lamb losses in commercial farms that derive profit from lambing, pregnancy of ewes can be achieved via sexual stimulation without waiting for the next breeding season.

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the performance of hormone treatment protocols, determine the factors associated with pregnancy success after hormone treatment, and compare the cost-efficiencies of two types of hormone treatment among cyclic and noncyclic anestrous dairy cows. The clinical records of 279 anestrous cows that received hormone treatment for artificial insemination (AI) from 64 herds in the western region of Thailand were obtained from Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital from January to August 2017. The performance of the hormone treatment protocols, fixed-time AI (TAI) and estrus detection before AI (EAI), showed that the pregnancy risk for the TAI protocol was higher than that for the EAI protocol, but pregnancy per AI did not differ significantly between the two protocols in cyclic and noncyclic cows. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that cows receiving the TAI protocol were more likely to be pregnant compared to those treated with the EAI protocol. Cows with a 3.00 body condition score (BCS) < 3.75 after treatment and loose-housed cows were more likely to become pregnant. Treatment during winter showed higher pregnancy success than that in the summer and rainy seasons. The cost-efficiency analysis showed that the TAI protocol was the most cost-efficient option for noncyclic cows, whereas the EAI protocol was the most cost-efficient option for cyclic cows.

Simple Summary: In the arid lands of Northern Mexico, there are several dairy cattle clusters managed under intensive production systems and fed completely with mixed rations, yet 3–5% feed rejection of the total ration offered has been reported. This surplus feed retains a high nutritional value which could be used to improve the reproductive efficiency of goats managed under marginal–extensive schemes. Therefore, we visualized an interesting research opportunity based on the circular economy approach. We hypothesized that a short-term supplementation with feed leftovers from dairy farms (i.e., intensive system) will increase the reproductive outcomes of rangeland managed goats (i.e., extensive system), trying to promote the circularity/connectedness between two highly discordant production systems. Our study intended to elucidate this working hypothesis. Based on a circular economy approach, we evaluated the possible effect of targeted supplementation with leftover feed from dairy cows (i.e., intensive system) on the reproductive performance of crossbred/rangeland goats (i.e., extensive system) in arid Northern Mexico. During the deep-anestrous season (i.e., March–April, 25° North), multiparous goats (n = 38) with a similar body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS) were randomly assigned to two groups: (1) supplemented group (SG; n = 19; BCS: 1.76 ± 0.07; BW: 43.7 ± 1.8 kg), receiving 400 g goat d−1 of dairy-cow-feed leftovers prior to grazing; and (2) non-supplemented group (NS; n = 19; BCS: 1.76 ± 0.06; BW: 44.3 ± 2.5 kg). Both groups were directed to the rangeland for a period of ≈8 h. While the experimental period lasted 36 d, the experimental breeding considered 11 d (d0–d10). The anovulatory status of goats was ultrasonographically confirmed on days −20, −10, and −1 prior to male–female interaction. Previously, bucks were separated for 3 weeks from the experimental females and received exogenous testosterone every third day (i.e., 50 mg i.m.) prior to mating. With respect to the response variables, namely BW, BCS, blood glucose levels (BGLs), estrus induction (GIE, %), latency to estrus (LTE, h), estrus duration (ED, h), and luteal tissue volume (LTV, mm), no differences (p > 0.05) occurred between experimental groups. However, the response variables, namely goats ovulating (GO, %; 78.9 vs. 47.3), total number of corpuses luteum (TNCL, n; 27 vs. 13), ovulation rate (OR, n; 1.42 vs. 0.73), multiple ovulation (MO, %; 73.3 vs. 55.5), and pregnancy rate on d 36 (PRd36, %, 68.4 vs. 36.8), favored (p < 0.05) the SG over the NS goats. Our results demonstrate that connecting the circularity of two divergent ruminant production systems (i.e., cow-intensive and goat-extensive) by using dairy cows' feed leftovers as a targeted supplementation strategy in anestrous goats under a marginal-rangeland production system enhanced out-of-season reproductive outcomes (i.e., ovulation rate and pregnancy rate), thus benefiting marginal goat producers and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Our research question considered whether exogenous glutamate administration would enhance serum insulin levels linked to augmented ovarian activity in yearling goats during the anestrous season. The obtained research outcomes support our initial working hypothesis. Certainly, we found that glutamate evokes serum insulin increases across time, enhancing in parallel the out-of-season ovarian activity, which is an augmented ovulation rate in yearling goats. The neuroendocrine regulation of the seasonal reproductive axis requires the integration of internal and external signals to ensure synchronized physiological and behavioral responses. Seasonal reproductive changes contribute to intermittent production, which poses challenges for optimizing goat product yields. Consequently, a significant objective in seasonal reproduction research is to attain continuous reproduction and enhance profitability in goat farming. Glutamate plays a crucial role as a modulator in several reproductive and metabolic processes. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential impact of exogenous glutamate administration on serum insulin concentration and ovarian function during the out-of-season period in yearling goats. During the anestrous season, animals were randomly located in individual pens to form two experimental groups: (1) glutamate (n = 10, live weight (LW) = 29.1 ± 1.02 kg, body condition score (BCS) = 3.4 ± 0.2 units) and (2) control (n = 10; LW = 29.2 ± 1.07 kg, BCS = 3.5 ± 0.2), with no differences (p < 0.05) regarding LW and BCS. Then, goats were estrus-synchronized, and blood sampling was carried out for insulin quantification. Ovaries were ultrasonographically scanned to assess ovulation rate (OR), number of antral follicles (AFs), and total ovarian activity (TOA = OR + AF). The research outcomes support our working hypothesis. Certainly, our study confirms that those yearling goats treated with exogenous glutamate displayed the largest (p < 0.05) insulin concentrations across time as well as an augmented (p < 0.05) out-of-season ovarian activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to assess the effect of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) administered on Day 5 or 7 of a fixed-time artificial insemination protocol (FTAI) in anestrous suckled beef cows, two experiments were performed to determine the following endpoints: Experiment 1 (n = 22), preovulatory follicle (POF) diameter, ovulation time, corpus luteum (CL) area, estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) concentrations; and Experiment 2 (n = 676), a field trial to evaluate conception rate using the same experimental design. In both experiments, a synchronization protocol using estradiol benzoate (EB) (Day 0), intravaginal progestin device (IVD) (Days 0 through 7), prostaglandin (PGF) (Day 7), eCG (Day 5 or 7), and GnRH (Day 9). Treatment consisted of administering 400 IU of eCG on Day 5 (T5) or Day 7 (T7 or control) concomitant with treatment with PGF2α. In experiment 1, all cows of T5 ovulated by 16 h after GnRH administration. The POF tended (P = 0.06; P = 0.07) to be larger at 1 and 2 d before ovulation in T5. The day before ovulation, E2 tended to be lower (P = 0.06) in T5 compared with T7. The CL area and the P4 concentrations were greater (P = 0.04) on day 9 in T5 compared with T7. In experiment 2, the conception rate was greater (P = 0.04) in T5 (72.2%) compared with T7 (61.0%) group. Therefore, administration of eCG on Day 5 of the designed protocol hastened ovulation of a greater follicle, which produced a larger CL and greater concentrations of progesterone by Day 9 after ovulation, resulting in 11.2% increase in cows pregnant. • Use of eCG on Day 5 of the protocol hastens the ovulation of a larger follicle. • Anestrous cows receiving eCG on Day 5 have lower estradiol at 24h before ovulation. • Use of eCG on Day 5 improves ovulation synchrony in anestrous suckled beef cows. • Cows receiving eCG on Day 5 have larger CL and produces more progesterone after ovulation. • Use of eCG on Day 5 increases pregnancy rate in anestrous suckled beef cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aegle marmelos and Murraya koenigii are the plants with impending medicinal properties. Both the plants contain various phyto-constituents that could be utilized for the treatment of various ailments in human and animal species. The A. marmelos and M. koenigii are easy to procure and their use is cost-effective which makes them important particularly in livestock health management. The plants are rich in trace minerals and antioxidants which augment nutraceutical values. In addition, recognized antibacterial and anti-inflammatory potential emphasizes A. marmelos and M. koenigii to be used against bovine infertility. The review comprises of use of Aegle marmelos and Murraya koenigii in the treatment against reproductive disorders in bovine.

The metabolic profile test in animals is used to assess their nutritional status, to diagnose disease and assess fertility. The aim of this paper was to investigate the metabolic profile in buffalo cows. Forty buffaloes from the Research and Development Station for Buffaloes Secaia - Romania, were divided into two groups (20 heads/group). Estrus induction protocols were applied to the first group (G1), while the second group consisted of buffalo cows that express natural oestrus (G2). When the artificial insemination was performed, blood samples were taken and the following parameters were determined: hemoglobin, total serum protein, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol, glucose, lipase, urea. G2 buffalo cows had significantly higher concentrations of hemoglobin, serum protein, glucose and inorganic phosphorus, while the serum calcium levels were lower in the group. The concentration of magnesium, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol, lipase and urea did not differ significantly between the buffalo groups (p>0.05). The Ca:P ratio for G2 buffaloes was lower (1.94:1) compared to G1 buffaloes (2.89:1). It can be concluded that the level of hemoglobin, serum protein, glucose, calcium and inorganic phosphorus plays a major role in the reproduction of buffaloes.

The neuroendocrine regulation of the seasonal reproductive axis requires the integration of internal and external signals to ensure synchronized physiological and behavioral responses. Seasonal reproductive changes contribute to intermittent production, which poses challenges for optimizing goat product yields. Consequently, a significant objective in seasonal reproduction research is to attain continuous reproduction and enhance profitability in goat farming. Glutamate plays a crucial role as a modulator in several reproductive and metabolic processes. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential impact of exogenous glutamate administration on serum insulin concentration and ovarian function during the out-of-season period in yearling goats. During the anestrous season, animals were randomly located in individual pens to form two experimental groups: (1) glutamate (n = 10, live weight (LW) = 29.1 ± 1.02 kg, body condition score (BCS) = 3.4 ± 0.2 units) and (2) control (n = 10; LW = 29.2 ± 1.07 kg, BCS = 3.5 ± 0.2), with no differences (p < 0.05) regarding LW and BCS. Then, goats were estrus-synchronized, and blood sampling was carried out for insulin quantification. Ovaries were ultrasonographically scanned to assess ovulation rate (OR), number of antral follicles (AFs), and total ovarian activity (TOA = OR + AF). The research outcomes support our working hypothesis. Certainly, our study confirms that those yearling goats treated with exogenous glutamate displayed the largest (p < 0.05) insulin concentrations across time as well as an augmented (p < 0.05) out-of-season ovarian activity.

Based on a circular economy approach, we evaluated the possible effect of targeted supplementation with leftover feed from dairy cows (i.e., intensive system) on the reproductive performance of crossbred/rangeland goats (i.e., extensive system) in arid Northern Mexico. During the deep-anestrous season (i.e., March–April, 25° North), multiparous goats (n = 38) with a similar body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS) were randomly assigned to two groups: (1) supplemented group (SG; n = 19; BCS: 1.76 ± 0.07; BW: 43.7 ± 1.8 kg), receiving 400 g goat d−1 of dairy-cow-feed leftovers prior to grazing; and (2) non-supplemented group (NS; n = 19; BCS: 1.76 ± 0.06; BW: 44.3 ± 2.5 kg). Both groups were directed to the rangeland for a period of ≈8 h. While the experimental period lasted 36 d, the experimental breeding considered 11 d (d0–d10). The anovulatory status of goats was ultrasonographically confirmed on days −20, −10, and −1 prior to male–female interaction. Previously, bucks were separated for 3 weeks from the experimental females and received exogenous testosterone every third day (i.e., 50 mg i.m.) prior to mating. With respect to the response variables, namely BW, BCS, blood glucose levels (BGLs), estrus induction (GIE, %), latency to estrus (LTE, h), estrus duration (ED, h), and luteal tissue volume (LTV, mm), no differences (p > 0.05) occurred between experimental groups. However, the response variables, namely goats ovulating (GO, %; 78.9 vs. 47.3), total number of corpuses luteum (TNCL, n; 27 vs. 13), ovulation rate (OR, n; 1.42 vs. 0.73), multiple ovulation (MO, %; 73.3 vs. 55.5), and pregnancy rate on d 36 (PRd36, %, 68.4 vs. 36.8), favored (p < 0.05) the SG over the NS goats. Our results demonstrate that connecting the circularity of two divergent ruminant production systems (i.e., cow-intensive and goat-extensive) by using dairy cows’ feed leftovers as a targeted supplementation strategy in anestrous goats under a marginal-rangeland production system enhanced out-of-season reproductive outcomes (i.e., ovulation rate and pregnancy rate), thus benefiting marginal goat producers and their families.

Changes in semen microbiota are associated with alterations to sperm quality and fertility. However, the microbiota from most livestock species has not yet been studied. Goats are seasonal breeders, but semen microbiota has never been described in this species, and it is unknown how seasonality affects it. Our study objective is 2-fold: to describe the microbiota in goat buck ejaculates and to determine if it differs between breeding and non-breeding seasons. Semen from six males of the Murciano-Granadina breed was collected during both seasons. Two replicates were performed per male and season on different days. The microbiota was characterized by genomic sequencing technology. Sperm quality was also evaluated. Repetition was not significant for the studied variables. Sperm velocities were higher for the breeding than for the non-breeding season. The ejaculates from both seasons also differed in the proportion of apoptotic spermatozoa. The five dominant phyla were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Fusobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes during the breeding season and Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Cyanobacteria during the non-breeding season. The dominant genus during both seasons was Ureaplasma. Differences in microbial community structure (the beta diversity) were found. A decrease in the relative abundance of the genus Faecalibacterium and an increase in the genera Sphingomonas and Halomonas were observed in the ejaculates collected during the breeding season. Sphingomonas and Faecalibacterium abundance favorably and unfavorably correlated with sperm quality, respectively. In conclusion, the semen microbiota from goat bucks varies between breeding and non-breeding seasons, and the microbiota remains stable for 7 days within a season. In addition, the genera Sphingomonas and Faecalibacterium could be possible biomarkers of semen quality in goat bucks. These results contribute to an in-depth understanding of the effects of reproductive seasonality on goat buck ejaculates.

The fertility response following induction of follicular wave emergence by follicle ablation combined withprogesterone based ovulation synchronization in postpartum anestrous buffaloes was assessed. Postpartum anestrousbuffaloes (n=24) with absence of overt estrus signs categorized as treatment group (Group 1; n=15) and controlgroup (Group 2; n=9). Group 1 was subjected to transvaginal ultrasound-guided follicle ablation on a random dayof the estrous cycle (Day=0) and insertion of CIDR. Seven days later, CIDR was removed and prostaglandin F2αanalogue was given intramuscularly. GnRH analogue was injected on day 9.5 and fixed-time AI was done 12 h and24 h later. Ultrasonography was performed to follow ovarian structures on different occasions and on day 38 postovulationfor detecting pregnancy. Group 2 did not receive any treatment however, estrus detection in this groupwas done daily by bull parading and visual monitoring followed by AI if found in standing estrus. In treatmentgroup, the follicular wave emergence occurred by 24 h following ablation in 60% buffaloes and in 40% remaininganimals by 48 h. The estrus exhibition was 100 % in group 1 versus 22.2 % in group 2. Mean interval from CIDRremoval to ovulation was 81.2±3.08 h and from wave emergence to ovulation was 9.92±0.18 days. The first servicepregnancy rate in treatment group was higher than control (66.67% vs 22.2%). The induction of follicular waveemergence through ultrasound guided follicle ablation and progesterone based ovulation synchronization can beused to improve pregnancy rates in anestrous buffaloes.

The aims of this study were to (1) evaluate postpartum phenotypes, cow factors, and genetic traits associated with plasma progesterone (P4) concentrations after first artificial insemination (AI); (2) determine variation in daily plasma P4 concentrations between d 7 and 13 after first AI; and (3) evaluate associations between plasma P4 concentrations and pregnancy success after first AI. First and second parity (n = 2,797) spring-calving lactating dairy cows from 35 dairy herds were enrolled. Farm visits were performed every 2 wk during the postpartum period as follows: cows that were at wk 3 (range: 14–27 d in milk) and wk 7 (range: 42–55 d in milk) postpartum were examined. Farm visits were performed weekly during the breeding season, and cows that were between 7 and 13 d after the first AI were examined. Body condition score (BCS) was measured at each visit using a 1 to 5 scale [low (≤2.75), target (≥3.0)]. Transrectal ultrasound examinations were conducted at wk 3 and wk 7 postpartum visits to determine presence or absence of a corpus luteum (CL) and uterine tract score [scale of G 1 (best)–G 4 (worst)]. Blood samples were collected at each visit, and plasma concentrations of glucose, β-hydroxybutyrate, and fatty acids were analyzed. On the day of the weekly farm visit during the breeding season, blood samples for P4 determination were collected from all cows that were between 7 and 13 d after first AI during the breeding period. Cows that had a CL present and a G 1 uterine score at wk 7 postpartum had greater plasma P4 concentration after first AI (+0.67 ng/mL and +0.4 ng/mL, respectively) compared with cows with no CL present and with a uterine score ≥G 3. Cows with low BCS at wk 7 postpartum had lesser plasma P4 concentration after first AI than cows with target BCS. Each unit increase in plasma fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate concentration at AI was associated with 0.45 ± 0.33 ng/mL (estimate ± standard error) and 0.07 ± 0.04 ng/mL greater plasma P4 concentration after first AI, respectively. Regarding genetic merit traits, each unit increase in fertility subindex was associated with 0.005 ± 0.003 ng/mL greater P4 concentration. In addition, for every 1 ng/mL increase in plasma P4 concentration, the odds of estimated probability of pregnancy per AI increased by 3% (odds ratio = 1.03; 95% confidence interval = 1.00, 1.05). In conclusion, cows with superior genetic merit for fertility traits and milk production traits, favorable fertility phenotypes at wk 7 postpartum, (e.g., presence of a CL, a G 1 uterine score, and target BCS), and blood parameters indicative of better metabolic status at AI were all associated with greater plasma P4 concentration after AI. In turn, greater plasma P4 concentrations were associated with greater odds of successful pregnancy establishment. This study underlines the important associations between early postpartum fertility phenotypes (CL presence, uterine health status) and subsequent plasma P4 concentrations after first AI, and hence provides additional evidence of the mechanisms through which selection for fertility traits improves phenotypic fertility performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Present study was undertaken to assess AMH concentration in serum and histopathological study of AFC in buffalo ovaries. Total 30 pair of ovary were collected in 10% Neutral Buffer Formalin. Blood samples were also collected before slaughtering the buffalo animals for estimation of AMH concentration. Before processing, 10 serial sections of each pair of ovary was done for histopathological examinations. All the serial sections of the ovaries were processed as per the standard procedure. On the basis of histopathological examinations and follicle count, animals were categorized as cyclic and anestrus. Out of 30 pairs of ovary, 18 pairs were identified as anestrus and 12 as cyclic. The mean number of primordial, antral and growing ovarian follicles count of cyclic buffaloes were 0.42±0.07, 0.15±0.03 and 4.47±0.03 and 0.49±0.02, 0.16±0.03 and 0.41±0.06 for anestrus buffaloes, respectively. Growing follicles were significantly higher in cyclic as compared to anestrous buffaloes. However, the difference of primordial and antral follicle count remained non-significant in cyclic and anestrous buffaloes. Whereas, AMH concentration in cyclic buffaloes (273.50±48.52) was significantly higher than anestrous buffaloes (79.40±7.80). Therefore, it is concluded that, anti-mullerian hormone is an endocrine marker and can predict the fertility of animal. Also, follicular count is positively correlated with AMH concentration.

The metabolic profile test in animals is used to assess their nutritional status, to diagnose disease and assess fertility. The aim of this paper was to investigate the metabolic profile in buffalo cows. Forty buffaloes from the Research and Development Station for Buffaloes Secaia -Romania, were divided into two groups (20 heads/group). Estrus induction protocols were applied to the first group (G1), while the second group consisted of buffalo cows that express natural oestrus (G2). When the artificial insemination was performed, blood samples were taken and the following parameters were determined: hemoglobin, total serum protein, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol, glucose, lipase, urea. G2buffalocows had significantly higher concentrations of hemoglobin, serum protein, glucose and inorganic phosphorus, while the serum calcium levels were lower in the group. The concentration of magnesium, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol, lipase and urea did not differ significantly between the buffalo groups (p>0.05). The Ca:P ratio for G2buffaloes was lower (1.94:1) compared to G1buffaloes (2.89:1). It can be concluded that the level of hemoglobin, serum protein, glucose, calcium and inorganic phosphorus plays a major role in the reproduction of buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introducing males to seasonally anestrous females has been shown to increase LH concentrations and hasten the first ovulation in ewes and goat does. Investigation of this sociosexual phenomenon in mares has not been well studied. The objective of this study was to determine if direct or indirect exposure of anestrous mares to a stallion would result in a similar increase in LH and hasten the first ovulation. In late February, mares were stratified by parity and age and assigned randomly to three treatments (n = 7/treatment): (1) DXP (direct exposure; mares housed adjacent to stallion and allowed direct contact for 2 h for 3 d/wk by placing the stallion into a cage in the center of a tease pen); (2) IXP (indirect exposure; mares housed in an adjacent pen to the stallion but not allowed direct contact); and (3) CON (control; mares housed away from stallion and not allowed direct or indirect exposure). During the first, third, and fifth treatment days, blood was collected hourly for 8 h beginning just before treatment initiation for measurement of LH and prolactin (PRL) concentrations. Hormone concentrations were analyzed as repeated measures and time from the first day of treatment to ovulation was analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Interval from treatment initiation to first ovulation did not differ (P > 0.05) among treatments: 36.3 ± 6.7, 42.8 ± 4.2, and 48.3 ± 4.2 d for DXP, IXP, and CON, respectively. When comparing the mares based on social status within treatment and level of direct interaction with the stallion, socially dominant DXP mares ovulated sooner (P < 0.05) than socially subordinate DXP mares (23.8 ± 3.2 and 53.0 ± 6.8 d, respectively). Although LH concentrations did not differ (P > 0.05) among treatments, a significant (P < 0.05) day effect was detected with concentrations being greater on the fifth treatment day compared with the first and third days. Concentrations of PRL were greater (P < 0.05) in IXP compared with DXP and CON, regardless of treatment day. Regardless of treatment, PRL concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) on the third treatment day, compared with the first and fifth days. We conclude that exposure of anestrous mares to a stallion, whether direct or indirect, to anestrous mares failed to elicit the same effects that have been observed in short-day breeders. The effect of stallion exposure on the onset of cyclicity in anestrous mares may be dependent on the duration of direct contact. • Stallion exposure fails to alter circulating LH concentrations in anestrous mares. • Direct stallion contact may be necessary to hasten ovulation in anestrous mares. • Concentrations of PRL are not altered by exposure of anestrous mares to stallions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of hormonal and artificial light techniques on acyclic embryo recipient mares by assessing pregnancy rates at 14 and 28 days during the spring transition period. The 48 animals were randomly assigned to the groups: control (CONT, n = 16), cyclic mares in the ovulatory phase; artificial light (LIGHT, n = 16), acyclic mares subjected to artificial light treatment; and hormone (HORM, n = 16), acyclic mares submitted to hormonal protocol in transition phase. In the LIGHT group, mares were stimulated with artificial light for five hours a day, for 60 days. In CONT and LIGHT groups, when a follicle = 35 mm in diameter and uterine edema = grade II were observed, 1.5 mg of deslorelin acetate and 1500 IU hCG were administered to induce ovulation. In the HORM group, mares were treated with three doses of 1.5 mg of estradiol benzoate and followed the same protocols as the CONT and LIGHT groups. Pregnancy rate was assessed by ultrasound at 14 days and confirmation at 28 days in all experimental groups. Descriptive analysis and chi-square test (5% significance) were performed. Pregnancy rates at 14 and 28 days were similar (p> 0.05) among all groups. The HORM and LIGHT treatments during the winter-spring transition period proved to be effective during the embryo transfer programs. As it is a more natural method, the LIGHT protocol has the potential to be one more biotechnological tool in equine reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of supplementation with melengestrol acetate (MGA), after timed artificial insemination (TAI), on the conception rate of Nellore cows, according to cyclicity during the protocol, estrus expression between intravaginal device withdrawal and insemination, and diameter of the largest follicle at the time of insemination, in order to identify predictors of the use of MGA. Multiparous lactating cows (577) were subjected to a hormonal protocol for ovulation synchronization. On day -2 of the protocol, the animals were painted with a marker on the base of their tail. On day 0, they were evaluated for estrus expression; the preovulatory follicle diameter (POFD) was measured by ultrasonography, and the artificial insemination was performed. The animals were assigned to two experimental groups according to the supplementation or not with 0.50 mg MGA, between 13 and 18 days after TAI. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed using an ultrasound examination 35 days after TAI. A positive effect of the treatment with MGA on the conception rate occurred generally in animals in anestrus, irrespective of the estrus expression. For animals treated with MGA, only those with POFD greater than 14 mm showed better conception rates that the control group.

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the estrous response and the moment of ovulation and fertility after a progesterone (P4) priming plus human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration in multiparous and nulliparous goats. Therefore, two experiments were conducted during non-breeding season (April and May, 26° N) and all the animals received a single injection of 20 mg of P4 and 100 IU of hCG 24 h later. In Experiment 1, 13 multiparous and 9 nulliparous goats were subjected to estrus detection twice a day from P4 administration, and their ovaries were scanned by transrectal ultrasonography every 12 h from the onset of estrus to determine ovulation. The proportion of goats in estrus did not differ between multiparous and nulliparous females. The onset of estrus (60.5 ± 12.4 h vs. 52.0 ± 5.2 h after hCG administration) and the moment of ovulation (91.5 ± 10.3 h vs. 85.3 ± 11.5 h) were also similar in multiparous and nulliparous goats. In Experiment 2, a total of 299 multiparous and nulliparous goats managed under intensive (n = 112 and 41 goats, respectively) or extensive (n = 85 and 61 goats, respectively) production systems were divided to receive a fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) with fresh semen at 60 or 72 h after hCG administration. The pregnancy rate did not differ significantly between multiparous and nulliparous goats in both production systems. Nonetheless, in the intensive system pregnancy rate was affected by the moment of insemination (P < 0.05). In this system, the pregnancy rate was higher in goats inseminated at 60 h than in 72 h (55.6%, 44/79 vs. 35.1%, 26/74, respectively; P < 0.05). On the contrary, in the extensive system the pregnancy rate was not affected by the time of insemination (29.4%, 23/78 vs. 22.0%, 15/68). To conclude, both the ovulatory response and the pregnancy rate after a single P4 injection plus hCG was similar between multiparous and nulliparous goats during anovulatory season. Although the pregnancy rate was not affected by the time of insemination in the extensive production system, under intensive conditions FTAI should be performed at 60 h after hCG treatment. Highlights • A single P4 injection plus hCG-based protocol for FTAI in goats was evaluated. • The protocol was effective to control estrus and ovulation in both multiparous and nulliparous goats. • Pregnancy rate after FTAI was not affected by parity. • In the intensive production system, pregnancy rate was greater in goats inseminated at 60 h after hCG administration. • Greater fertility was obtained in intensive than extensive production system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possible effect of glutamate supplementation upon ovarian reactivation and serum concentrations of insulin (INS) and triiodothyronine (T3) in anestrous yearling goats was evaluated. Goats (n = 32, 12 mo., 26° North, 1117 m) with a similar live weight (LW) and body condition score (BCS) were blood sampled twice per week for two weeks (2 × 1 week × 2 weeks) to confirm the anestrus status (−1 LW), or 2) Control (CONT; n = 16; LW = 29.2 ± 1.09 kg; BCS = 3.5 ± 0.18, IV saline). During the treatment period, 16 goats (eight/group) were blood sampled twice per week for six weeks. Such serum samples (2 × 1 week × 6 weeks) were quantified by their P4 content to evaluate the ovarian-luteal activity, whereas a sample subset (1 × 1 week × 6 weeks) was used to quantify their INS & T3 content to evaluate their metabolic status. Neither LW (28.19 kg; p > 0.05) nor BCS (3.51 units; p > 0.05) differed between treatments. Goats depicting ovarian reactivation favored the GLUT group (50 vs. 12.5%; p < 0.05). Neither INS (1.72 ± 0.15 ng mL−1) nor T3 (2.32 ± 0.11 ng mL−1) differed between treatments, yet a treatment x time interaction regarding INS & T3 concentration across time favored (p < 0.05) the GLUT group. The results unveil exogenous glutamate as an interesting modulator not only of ovarian reactivation, but of metabolic hormone synthesis.

The present study aimed at evaluating the effect of different combination drugs to treatment the postpartum anestrous in cows. Fifteen local dairy cows, 3-10 years old, weights 200-300 kg and postpartum period (15-15) months. This study was conceded in Dhi Qar province/Iraq 2016. The cows were divided into five groups (10 cows in each group); four groups in which the four different hormonal regimes were used for treatment and a fifth group was considered as a control group. First treatment group (T1) using a hormonal system (1 ml estradiol benzoate (synthetic benzoate ester of estradiol) (2mg)/SC + 3 ml colproestenol (synthetic analogue of prostaglandin F2) (750 mg)/SC). Second treatment group (T2) using a hormonal system (1 ml estradiol benzoate (2mg)/SC. + 5 ml oxytocin (5 IU)]/SC). Third treatment group (T3) using a hormonal system (3 ml colproestenol (750 mg)/IM + 5ml oxytocin (50 IU)/IM). Fourth treatment group (T4) using a hormonal system (1 ml estradiol benzoate (2mg)/SC + 3 ml colproestenol (750 mg)/IM + 5ml oxytocin (50 IU)]/IM). Fifth group (control group) only using a rectal palpation and Injection 5 ml normal saline (NS). The results showed significant differences to responsible to treatment and appear of estrous signs between all groups (at p <.05) and the higher percentage (90%) was registered in the group one (T1) of treatment that in which used1) ml estradiol benzoate (2mg)/SC+ 3 ml colproestenol (750 mg)/SC). The results also showed there was a significant difference between the first and second treatments, between the second and third, as well as between the second and fourth group (at p <.05), while the results did not show a significant difference between the first and the third, first and fourth as well as between fourth and third (at p <.05). The percentages of responsible to treatment and appear of estrous signs during using of different hormonal regimes was 90%, 40%, 70% and 50% for the T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively comparative with 0% at the control group. The pregnancy rate of treatment cows that showed estrous sings according the number of group was 55%, 50%, 57% and 40% for the T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of temporary suckling interruption associated with the male effect on reproductive performance of pluriparous Santa Inês ewes. The females were kept apart from the males for 60 days and then randomly distributed into three treatments associated with the male effect (DT0, DT24 and DT48); in DT0, there was no suckling interruption; in DT24, suckling was interrupted for 24 hours, and in DT48, sucking was interrupted for 48 hours. Estrous distribution was observed within 31 (DT0), 27 (DT24) and 38 (DT48) days of the breeding season. Estrous synchronization up to the 5th day of the mating season was observed in 15% (DT0), 30% (DT24) and 25% (DT48) of the females, with no difference among treatments. Estrous percentages were 90% (DT0), 100% (DT24) and 100% (DT48), with no difference among treatments. Pregnancy rates were 38.4% (DT0), 60.0% (DT24) and 45.0% (DT48) with no difference among treatments. Prolificacy was 1.43 (DT0), 1.17 (DT24) and 1.22 (DT48) and did not differ between treatments. In conclusion, temporary suckling interruption associated with the male effect is efficient to induce estrous but not to synchronize estrous or increase the pregnancy rates and prolificacy of Santa Inês ewes during a 45-day breeding season.

Aim: The study was undertaken to find out the serum metabolic and minerals profile in postpartum anestrous surti buffaloes treated with norgestomet ear implants alone and in combination with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG). Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 18 postpartum anestrous Surti buffaloes divided into three groups of six animals each at random to conduct the experiment. The buffaloes in Group-I and Group-II were implanted with Crestar ear implant for 9 days together with 2 ml injection of Crestar solution given i/m on the day of the implant insertion. In Group-II, additionally 500 IU PMSG was given i/m on the day of implant removal, whereas the buffaloes in Group-III served as anestrous control group and received 5 ml Normal Saline i/m on day 0 and 9 as a placebo treatment. Results: The overall serum total protein values did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) between time (days) intervals in any of the groups. The mean serum total cholesterol levels at 10th day and on the day of estrus were found significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the control group as compared to treatment Groups I and II. However, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) at 10th day and on the day of estrus between treatment groups (T1 and T2). The overall mean serum cobalt, zinc, iron, and manganese values did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) between different time intervals among any of the groups, except copper which was significantly lower (p < 0.05) at 10th day in control group as compared to treatment groups. Conclusion: Microelements cannot be synthesized in the body. Hence, it is concluded that the mineral mixture should be supplied daily in the animals ration to suffice the requirement of the trace elements. The mean serum metabolic and micro-minerals profiles in treatment and control groups revealed that overall mean serum total protein, cholesterol, copper, and zinc levels were apparently higher in treatment groups whereas, mean serum cobalt, iron, and manganese concentration had no consistent trend between treatment and control groups of Surti buffaloes.

The aim of the present paper was to investigate the efficiency of different progestagen treatment methods in combination with Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotrophin (PMSG) in Merino ewes outside the breeding season. A total of 78 ewes (2 to 4 years old) with a mean bodyweight of 58.4 kg and an average body condition score (BCS) of 3.5 were used in the trial. The ewes were randomly divided into 3 equal groups [n= 26]. Intravaginal progestagen sponges containing Fluorogestone Acetate (FGA; 30 mg) were inserted intravaginally for different periods (7_days: short-term; 10_days: mid-term, 14_days: long-term). In all cases, 500 IU PMSG was administered intramuscularly at sponge withdrawal. The oestrus response, lambing rate, multiple birth rate, fecundity and litter size were [65.4, 61.5, 18.8%, 0.77 and 1.25] in the short-term group; 80.8, 88.5, 34.8%, 1.31 and 1.48 in the mid-term group; and 96.2, 92.3, 62.5%, 1.50 and 1.63 in the long-term group, respectively. Oestrus manifestation and multiple birth rate were greater in long-term than in mid- and short-term groups, whereas for lambing rate, fecundity and litter size, better results were obtained in long- and mid-term than in short-term protocol. In conclusion, in Merino ewes, oestrus synchronisation outside the breeding season with long and mid-term progestagen treatment was found to be more effective than short-term treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to evaluate the effect of injectable progesterone previous to the timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol on follicular growth, ovulation and pregnancy rate of suckled Bos indicus cows. In experiment 1, 10 days before the beginning to TAI protocol (D-10), 431 suckled-anestrus Nelore cows (249 multiparous and 182 primiparous), were allocated to one of three treatments groups (control, P4i and P4iGnRH). At this moment, cows in the P4i and P4iGnRH group received 150 mg of injectable progesterone intramuscularly (Sincrogest injetável ® , Ouro Fino, Brazil). On Day 0 (D0), all cows were synchronized using an estradiol/progesterone-based TAI protocol. Simultaneously, in the P4iGnRH group, cows received 10 μg of Busereline intramuscularly (Sincroforte ® , Ouro Fino, Brazil). Ultrasound exams were performed to evaluate the diameter of the largest follicle (D0, D8 and D10), ovulation rate and diameter of the corpus luteum (D24). In experiment 2, 681 suckled Nelore cows (356 multiparous and 325 primiparous) were synchronized using an estradiol/progesterone-based TAI protocol and received treatments similar to experiment 1. TAI was performed 48 h after removal of the progesterone (P4) device. Pregnancy diagnosis was 30 d after TAI. In experiment 3, blood samples were collected to evaluated the progesterone concentration for 168 h after administration of injectable progesterone intramuscularly. Statistical analyses were performed by GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. In experiment 1, the diameter of the largest follicle (LF) on D10 (P = 0.21), follicular growth rate (P = 0.34) and ovulation rate (P = 0.62) were similar among experimental groups. However, there was difference among groups for the LF on D0 [Control (10.9 ± 0.2 mm) b , P4i (12.7 ± 0.3 mm) a and P4iGnRH (12.6 ± 0.3 mm) a ; P = 0.001], LF on D8 [Control (9.7 ± 0.2 mm) b , P4i (10.4 ± 0.2 mm) a and P4iGnRH (9.9 ± 0.2 mm) ab ; P = 0.05], presence of the CL on D8 [Control 0% (0/136) b , P4i 0% (0/140) b and P4iGnRH 26.4% (38/144) a ; P = 0.001], diameter of the CL on D24 [Control (19.7 ± 0.4 mm) ab , P4i (20.1 ± 0.4 mm) a and P4iGnRH (18.5 ± 0.4 mm) b ; P = 0.001] and pregnancy rate [Control 35.0% (78/223) b , P4i 45.9% (105/229) a and P4iGnRH 40.6% (93/229) ab ; P = 0.01]. The circulating concentration of P4 remained above 1.5 ng/mL until 168 h after the P4i treatment. In conclusion, the injectable progesterone previous to the TAI protocol increased diameter of the LF on D0 and D8 without interfering on the ovulation rate. Furthermore, such exposure increases the pregnancy rate in suckled Nelore cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The objective of this study was to determine the effects that parity may have on production, reproduction and the metabolic status of Holstein cows managed in a production system based on total mixed ration and pasture. Primiparous (n = 22) and multiparous (n = 24) cows from a dairy farm research station in Uruguay were used in a completely randomized design. Body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS) and backfat thickness (BFT) were recorded weekly from −30 to 70 days postpartum. Milk production was measured daily, and milk composition was determined weekly. Resumption of postpartum ovarian activity and progesterone profiles were measured three times a week based on milk progesterone. Blood was collected to determine the levels of glucose, insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-1), insulin, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), albumin, total protein and cholesterol. Milk production and components were lower for primiparous cows (p < 0.01) than multiparous cows. Body weights were also lower in primiparous cows than in multiparous cows (p < 0.05); however, BCS and BFT were greater (p < 0.01) in primiparous cows than in multiparous cows. Primiparous cows had greater levels of glucose, insulin and IGF-1 and lower concentrations of NEFA and BHB (p < 0.01) than multiparous cows. The intervals from calving to first ovulation were not affected by parity; however, primiparous cows showed less abnormal cycles (27.2%) than multiparous cows (50.0%) (p < 0.01). The present study found that a feeding system based on TMR and pasture was sufficient to produce over 25 L of milk per day without extending their calving to first ovulation interval in primiparous and multiparous cows. However, multiparous cows showed a greater imbalance in metabolic and hormonal profiles than primiparous cows, causing abnormal ovarian activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovary is the main functional organ in reproduction and has obvious difference in the biological activity during the estrous cycle. To investigate the genes associated with follicular development, ovulation, or non-season reproduction, gene expression differences in the ovaries of Qira black sheep estrous stage and anestrous stage in May were assessed using RNA-seq technology. This analysis obtained approximately 1.17 Gb and 1.22 Gb clean reads in Qira black sheep anestrous stage and estrous stage libraries, respectively. Six hundred and fifty one differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, in which 400 genes were up-regulated and 251 genes were down-regulated in the anestrous stage samples compared with estrous stage samples. GO enrichment analysis revealed that these DEGs were significantly enriched in 52 functional groups for the 3 GO categories. Using KEGG pathway analysis, 35 significant signaling pathways were enriched, including calcium signaling pathway, steroid biosynthesis, cell adhesion molecules, and steroid hormone biosynthesis. This study will provide a list of candidate genes for the future research in sheep reproduction.

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of different CIDR protocols including some hormonal preparations for the treatment of postpartum anestrous of Iraqi northern buffaloes. The present study was conducted on 70 anestrous buffaloes suffering from postpartum ovarian inactivity. Buffaloes were randomly assigned to three treatment groups. Buffaloes in Treatment 1 (n=20) injected on day 0 of the experiment, GnRH 250 μg and a CIDR was placed in the anterior vagina. On day 7, they were injected with 25 mg of PGF2α and on the following day (day 8) the CIDR were removed. On day 9 a second dose of GnRH (250 μg) was injected. Buffaloes in Treatment 2 (n=20) received on day 0 GnRH (250 μg) and a CIDR were placed in the anterior vagina. On day 7, CIDR were removed and injected with GnRH (250 μg). Treatment 3 (n=20) on day 0 a CIDR were placed in the anterior vagina. On day 6, they were injected with 1000 IU of eCG. CIDR were removed on day 7 and injected with GnRH (250 μg). A control group (n=10) received no treatments. Results showed that in treatment 1 (GnRH+CIDR—8days—7 PGF2α+9 GnRH), 15 out of 20 buffaloes received treatment exhibited estrus within 69.4 ± 8.4 h after CIDR removal. The estrus induction rate was 75%. Total number of buffaloes became pregnant was 4 (26.7%). In treatment 2 (GnRH+CIDR—7 days—GnRH), 65% of the buffaloes received treatment exhibited estrus within 77.8 ± 5.6 h after CIDR removal. Total number of buffaloes became pregnant was 4 (26.7%). In treatment 3 (CIDR—7 days— 6 eCG+7 GnRH), 100% of the buffaloes received treatment exhibited estrus within 78.3 ± 11.8 h after CIDR removal. In conclusion, our results indicate that the addition of GnRH and eCG to a progesterone-based CIDR protocol substantially improves the estrus induction and pregnancy rates in postpartum anestrous buffaloes. [Vet. World 2012; 5(4.000): 201-205]