Use of a synthetic prostaglandin analogue for synchronization of oestrus in heifers

Authors: Smith JF
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 24, Issue 5, pp 71-73, May 1976
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cattle, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant
Subject Terms: Endocrine/autocrine/paracrine, Oestrus/oestrous, Husbandry/husbandry procedures, Reproduction - hormones, Reproduction, Reproduction - female
Article class: Scientific Article

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Abstract: Following the initial report of synchronization of oestrus by intrauterine infusion of prostaglandin F_2α (PGF_2α; Rowson et al 1972), a large amount of data has been published on the effects of dose rate and route of administration of PGF_2α on the effectiveness, of oestrus synchronization. The most convenient method of administration is the intramuscular route however, owing to the rapid rate of metabolism of PGF_2α (Piner et al 1970) very large doses are needed to achieve consistent effects. The recent development of potent synthetic analogues of prostaglandin has further stimulated research on oestrus control by this method of administration (Tervit et al 1973; Cooper, 1974; Nancarrow and Hearnshaw, 1974). The failure of animals in the early stages of the oestrous cycle (days 0 to 4) to respond to prostaglandin treatment (Rowson et al 1972; Lauderdale, 1972) has led to the proposal, of a system of two treatments 11 days apart. Such a system should ensure that all animals are at a receptive stage of the cycle at the time of the second treatment. The present experiment was conducted to determine the incidence and precision of oestrus onset in heifers following intramuscular treatment at various stages of the oestrous cycle with a synthetic prostaglandin analogue.

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