Studies into the mechanisms by which nutrition influences
ovulation rate: use of the ovariectomized ewe model
G.J. Cruickshank, J.F. Smith, J. Konlechner, J. Parr
MAF Technology, Ruakura Agricultural Centre, Private Bag,
Hamilton
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production.
1990, 50: 141-144
Twenty four Coopworth ewes, selected on the basis of an
increased ovarian response to lupin grain supplementation, were
ovariectomised and fitted with a Foley catheter in the abomasum. They
were individually penned and offered a low protein pelleted diet at
maintenance levels. Following a five week stabilisation period 12 ewes
were infused abomasally with 100g/d whey protein concentrate in 1 litre
of water for 8 days. Twelve ewes received 1 litre of water only. Blood
samples were collected four times daily for FSH analysis, from 2 days
before until 2 days after infusion.
Protein infusion did not influence FSH levels. Mean values were 8.5
ngFSH/ml plasma for both treatments and means for individual ewes
ranged from 4.5 to 11.5 ng/ml. These results indicate that the reported
increase in FSH with increased protein intake is not due to a direct
effect on the pituitary gland.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
Ewe; ovariectomy; FSH; protein; ovulation rate
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Last Updated 25-01-1997
