ACTH administration during formation of preovulatory follicles impairs steroidogenesis and angiogenesis in association with ovulation failure in lactating cows

Ovulation failure, follicular persistence and formation of follicular cysts are known to impair dairy cow fertility. While the underlying mechanism is not entirely clear, stress-induced alteration in adrenal hormone secretion can cause these ovarian pathologies. Six synchronized lactating cows were scanned daily by ultrasound and plasma samples were taken throughout the estrous cycle. Treatment cows (n = 3) were administered with ACTH analog every 12 h from day 15 to day 21 of the cycle to induce formation of follicular cysts.
Source: Domestic Animal Endocrinology - Category: Endocrinology Authors: Source Type: research