Pregnancy Specific Protein B concentration for the prediction of lambing rate in sheep

The objective of this study was to determine if PSPB could be used to accurately predict lambing rates in sheep. Samples were collected from 54 Dorset, Katahdin, or crossbred ewes at 28 days post ram removal which was approximately 46 days post breeding. Samples were processed using the quantitative BioPRYN® assay. Ewes carrying twins had greater (P < 0.001) PSPB concentrations that ewes that delivered singles, and triplets or quads tended (P = 0.09) to be greater than twins. This test could become an effective diagnostic tool for improving sheep flock management throughout gestation by providing producers insight into predicting lambing rates.

Source: Small Ruminant Research - January 20, 2020 Category: Zoology Source Type: research