Effect of two GnRH analog treatments in serum levels of estradiol, progesterone and corticosterone, ultrasonographic analysis of the ovarium and opposition in ostriches (Struthio camelus)

• Grant number: 10/50196-0
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: November 01, 2010
• End date: October 31, 2012
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Animal Reproduction
• Principal Investigator: Marcelo Alcindo de Barros Vaz Guimarâes
• Grantee: Marcelo Alcindo de Barros Vaz Guimarâes
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

There is a lack of information available in literature concerning the reproductive endocrinology of ostriches (Struthio camelus). It's well known that this species presents low reproductive efficiency in commercial farms. A better understanding of the reproductive endocrine mechanisms can potentially improve this situation leading to a better management and to the application of assisted reproductive techniques (ARTS). The aim of this work is to evaluate the efficacy of two different treatment protocols using GnRH analog (lecirelin) in adult female ostriches during the season. The effects of the treatment will be analyzed through serum levels of estradiol, progesterone and corticosterone, behavioral observations, ovarian ultrasound analysis and oviposition. (AU)