Progesterone-based hormonal treatments to induce and synchronize the onset of puberty in buffalo-heifers

Abstract

Objective:The present work aimed to study the effect of progesterone (CIDR)-based GnRH treatments plus eCG (1000 or 500 IU) on inducing and synchronizing the onset of puberty in buffalo-heifers. Methods: Buffalo-heifers (n=28) were randomly allocated into four treatment protocols (7 each): (G1, CIDR-eCG1000-GnRH), (G2, CIDR-eCG 500-GnRH), (G3, CIDR-GnRH) and (G4, CIDR-alone). The largest follicle diameter (LFD) and antral follicles counts (AFC) of small (≤ 4mm), medium (> 4mm-≤8mm) and large follicles (>8mm) were estimated by transrectal ultrasonography on Days 0, 8, and 11. Also, the LFD was estimated on Day 13 as well. Results: On Day 11, the AFC of both small and medium-sized follicles was higher in G1 compared with G2 (P < 0.05) and with both G3 and G4 (P < 0.01). The AFC of large follicles was the greatest (P < 0.05) in G1compared with all groups but did not differ among G2, G3, and G4 on Day 11. On Day 13, the LFD showed non-significant variation between G1 and G2 as well as between G3 and G4. It showed a significant increase in G1 (P < 0.01) and G2 (P < 0.05) compared with either G3 or G4. The conception rate was the highest (P<0.05) in G1 compared with all groups. Conclusion: It could be concluded that the incorporation of eCG at a dose of 1000 IU in P4 (CIDR) based together with GnRH treatment protocol induces and synchronizes puberty in buffalo-heifers at the age of puberty.

Cytokine Profiling and Puberty Enhancement Post Altrenogest Feeding in Pre Pubertal Murrah Buffalo (<em>Bubalus bubalis</em>) Heifers

“…Progestogens are effective in inducing cyclicity in prepubertal heifers, particularly when combined with a higher energy diet [32]. A protocol involving the administration of 1000 IU of eCG along with P4 (CIDR) and GnRH has been found to effectively trigger and synchronize puberty in buffalo heifers that have reached pubertal age [33]. Additionally, the administration of GnRH and estradiol benzoate, alongside CIDR treatment, has shown favourable outcomes in Nili-Ravi buffaloes, including the emergence of follicular waves, estrus occurrence, ovulation, and pregnancy rates [34].…”