Progestogen treatments for cycle management in a sheep model of assisted conception affect the growth patterns, the expression of luteinizing hormone receptors, and the progesterone secretion of induced corpora lutea

Abstract

Objective: To determine, in a sheep model, the effect of a short-term progestative treatment on growth dynamics and functionality of induced corpora lutea.

Design: Observational, model study.

Setting: Public university.

Patient(s): Sixty adult female sheep.

Intervention(s): Synchronization and induction of ovulation with progestogens and prostaglandin analogues; ovarian ultrasonography, blood sampling, and ovariectomy.

Main outcome measure(s): Determination of pituitary function and morphologic characteristics, expression of luteinizing hormone (LH) receptors, and progesterone secretion of corpora lutea.

Result(s): The use of progestative pretreatments for assisted conception affect the growth patterns, the expression of LH receptors, and the progesterone secretion of induced corpora lutea.

Conclusion(s): The current study indicates, in a sheep model, the existence of deleterious effects from progestogens on functionality of induced corpora lutea.