Investigations on the vaginal temperature, cycle stages, and steroid hormone concentrations during the breeding season in camels (Camelus dromedarius)

Abstract

Background and Aim: Estrus detection plays a crucial role in the success of animal reproduction. It was previously reported that body temperature changes during estrus. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between vaginal temperatures (VTs) measured by a data logger, ovarian activity, and hormonal cyclic changes in camels. Materials and Methods: Six mature, healthy, non-pregnant dromedary, and 10-12-year-old camels were included in the study. The ovarian activity was monitored with ultrasonography, and estrus behavior was evaluated using an active and virile male camel. Animals were inserted with a blank controlled internal drug release device attached with an intravaginal data logger. Every hour, the ambient temperature was recorded by another data logger. Blood samples were collected, and sera were used to measure estradiol and progesterone levels. Results: The whole follicular cycle lasted 25.41±1.36 days, and the maximum sizes of the dominant follicle in the first and second follicular waves were 1.63±0.27 cm and 1.94±0.42 cm, respectively. There was a significant positive correlation between the follicular diameter and estradiol-17β level (p<0.01, r=0.397). There was no correlation between the follicular diameter and progesterone level (p>0.05, r=0.038), which remained low during the whole period of the experiment. The mean daily VT was significantly correlated with the diameter of the dominant follicle (1.7-2.2 cm, p<0.01, r=0.52). Conclusion: Measurement of VT will improve the accuracy of estrus prediction. Further studies are recommended to validate VT in camel reproduction.

The relationship between ovarian hormones and mast cell distribution in the ovaries of dromedary camel (Camelus dromedaries) during the follicular wave

“…Consequently, MCs and nerve fibers will establish a bidirectional interaction and be responsible for local neuroimmune communication. Mast cell mediators also have an effect on endothelial cells and eosinophils, which is beneficial in the recruitment of eosinophils [ 43 , 44 ].…”

Effect of using tannin extract from Acacia mearnsii on intravaginal temperature, production and milk composition of Holstein cows in a subtropical environment

“…The temperature data logger (Thermochron ibutton, KY, USA) was attached to an intravaginal progesterone implant to register the cows' internal body temperature. The implants contained low progesterone concentrations, similar to the methodology used by MOHAMEd et al (2021). All implants were autoclaved before usage.…”