Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
4.9
2.7
Journals
Animals
Special Issues
Advances in Camelid Reproduction
share announcement

Advances in Camelid Reproduction

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Animal Reproduction".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 October 2025 | Viewed by 12901

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Davide Monaco

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70010 Bari, Italy
Interests: clinical examination and reproductive ultrasonography in dromedary camel, horse, donkey, cow and sheep; monitoring of the ovarian follicular waves; pregnancy diagnosis; fetal development; collection of epididymal sperm (post castration with retrograde flushing); semen collection; semen analysis and preservation; artificial insemination; synchronization of ovarian follicular waves; superovulation; embryo recovery and transfer; neonatology and disease of the post-partum period; calf management
Dr. Monica Probo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 6-26900 Lodi, Italy
Interests: reproductive endocrinology; use of alternative non-invasive matrices for the retrospective evaluation of puberty, pregnancy, parturition, postpartum and neonatal period; reproductive examination and ultrasonography in cow, horse, pig, sheep, goat and dromedary camel; reproductive management of cow herds; synchronization protocols; artificial insemination; embryo-transfer; analysis of cow herd reproductive and productive data; calving and dystocia management; neonatology and disease of the post-partum period; calf management
Dr. Aliai Lanci

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Bologna, Italy
Interests: collection, isolation, characterization and application of mesenchymal stem cells derived from fetal and adult tissues; morphological and ultrastructural study of the amniotic compartment; evaluation of amniotic fluid during normal and high-risk pregnancy to identify markers of placental diseases; macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of the umbilical cord; perinatology; intensive care of the neonate and neonatal sepsis; pregnancy diagnosis and reproductive ultrasonography in ruminants, camelids, small animals and horses

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The world camel population is increasing due to the raising demand for camels as production animals, particularly dromedary camels. Dromedary camel breeding is therefore shifting from extensive to semi-intensive/intensive breeding systems. However, a paucity of knowledge emerges from the scientific literature: most of the knowledge and tools already available to veterinarians and farmers for the reproductive management of other species (bovine, equine, small ruminant, swine) are still not available for the camelids. This Special Issue, “Advances in Camelid Reproduction”, aims to share information and to promote and improve new and existing knowledge about Old World and New World Camelids. Reviews and original contributions about the applied reproduction of camelid species and related with the following topics are welcome:

  • Male and female reproductive physiology and endocrinology;
  • Andrology, gynecology and obstetrics;
  • Reproductive management;
  • Assisted reproductive technologies (synchronization of ovarian activity, semen processing, artificial insemination, induction of ovulation, embryo transfer, ovum pickup, in vitro fertilization, gamete cryopreservation);
  • Causes of infertility (infectious and non-infectious diseases);
  • Therapies;
  • Pregnancy and parturition;
  • Neonatology, calf management and diseases;
  • Management of herd fertility;
  • Precision livestock farming.

Dr. Davide Monaco
Dr. Monica Probo
Dr. Aliai Lanci
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Animals is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • camelids
  • genital system
  • reproductive management
  • ultrasonography
  • assisted reproductive technologies
  • infertility
  • genital diseases
  • ovarian activity
  • male reproduction
  • neonatology
  • diagnostics
  • infectious diseases
  • calf management and diseases
  • precision livestock farming

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

17 pages, 3241 KiB  
Article
Melatonin in Male Dromedary Camel (Camelus dromedarius) Seminal Plasma and Its Specific MT1 and MT2 Receptors on Sperm Membranes
by Lamia Doghbri, Melissa Carvajal-Serna, Moufida Atigui, Adriana Casao, Victoria Peña-Delgado, Mabrouk-Mouldi Seddik, Mohamed Dbara, Rosaura Pérez-Pé and Mohamed Hammadi
Animals 2025, 15(1), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15010083 - 2 Jan 2025
Viewed by 888
Abstract
Camels (Camelus dromedarius) are seasonal short-day breeders, regulated by photoperiod and melatonin secretion. However, no studies have explored melatonin levels in camel seminal plasma or their relationship with testosterone, age, or climatic factors, nor is it known whether melatonin receptors exist [...] Read more.
Camels (Camelus dromedarius) are seasonal short-day breeders, regulated by photoperiod and melatonin secretion. However, no studies have explored melatonin levels in camel seminal plasma or their relationship with testosterone, age, or climatic factors, nor is it known whether melatonin receptors exist in camel spermatozoa to respond to seminal melatonin. This study aimed to analyze melatonin levels in camel seminal plasma and its specific receptors in spermatozoa. Semen samples were obtained from November to March (breeding season). Testosterone and melatonin levels were measured in seminal plasma by ELISA. Melatonin receptors were localized in spermatozoa using immunofluorescence, and their presence was confirmed by Western Blot. Melatonin levels were higher from November to January and decreased in February and March. No correlation between testosterone and melatonin levels was found, but both hormones were negatively correlated with daylength (p = 0.0089 and p = 0.0688, respectively). Testosterone, but not melatonin, levels were affected by age. Two melatonin receptors (MT1, MT2) were detected on camel spermatozoa, with several immunotypes labeled mainly in the tail and post-acrosome region, but also in the acrosome and neck. Western Blot analysis confirmed the presence of these receptors, showing a 39 kDa band for MT1 and a 36 kDa band for MT2. Understanding melatonin’s effects on sperm could help ejaculates’ processing procedures, semen handling, and infertility issues in camels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Camelid Reproduction)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 21826 KiB  
Article
On-field Gross Morphology Evaluation of Dromedary Camel (Camelus dromedarius) Fetal Membranes
by Davide Monaco, Carolina Castagnetti, Aliai Lanci, Taher Kamal Osman, Giovanni Michele Lacalandra and Jasmine Fusi
Animals 2024, 14(11), 1553; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111553 - 24 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1185
Abstract
The dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) fetal membranes, commonly referred to as “the placenta”, are epitheliochorial, diffuse, and microcotyledonary, similarly to the mare’s placenta. The evaluation of the placenta is an essential component of the neonatal evaluation in the equine species. However, [...] Read more.
The dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) fetal membranes, commonly referred to as “the placenta”, are epitheliochorial, diffuse, and microcotyledonary, similarly to the mare’s placenta. The evaluation of the placenta is an essential component of the neonatal evaluation in the equine species. However, post-partum or post-abortion placental assessment in dromedary camels is unfortunately too frequently neglected and, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the dromedary camel species lacks a comprehensive description of the normal placenta’s gross morphology. In order to facilitate its on-field evaluation, the current study describes the macroscopic features of the placenta of the dromedary camel after full-term pregnancy and spontaneous parturition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Camelid Reproduction)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3822 KiB  
Article
Gas/Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Key Functional Substances Regulating Poll Gland Secretion in Male Camels during Seasonal Estrus
by Lijun Dai, Bao Yuan, Bohao Zhang, Wenli Chen, Xixue Yuan, Xinhong Liu, Yuan Gao, Yong Zhang, Quanwei Zhang and Xingxu Zhao
Animals 2023, 13(12), 2024; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13122024 - 18 Jun 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2998
Abstract
Increased poll gland secretion is a major characteristic and indicator of estrus in male Bactrian camels; however, research on these poll glands and their secretion is extremely rare. In this study, we determine the chemical composition of poll gland secretions and identify the [...] Read more.
Increased poll gland secretion is a major characteristic and indicator of estrus in male Bactrian camels; however, research on these poll glands and their secretion is extremely rare. In this study, we determine the chemical composition of poll gland secretions and identify the key functional substances that regulate seasonal estrus in male camels. A GC/LC-MS dual platform was used to analyze ventral hair (control) and neck mane samples containing poll gland secretions from male Bactrian camels during estrus. Multidimensional and single-dimensional analyses were used to screen differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) between groups. Functional prediction of enriched metabolites was performed using a Human Metabolome Database comparison and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis, which were then compared with a behavioral analysis of male Bactrian camels in estrus. A total of 1172 DEMs and 34 differential metabolic pathways were identified. One metabolite group was found to relate to steroid synthesis and metabolism, and another metabolite group was associated with neural metabolism. Therefore, we speculate that steroids and neurochemicals jointly regulate estrous behavior in male Bactrian camels, thus providing theoretical insights into the development and function of poll glands in Bactrian camels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Camelid Reproduction)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 28149 KiB  
Article
Morphological and Molecular Investigations of Aquaporin-7 (AQP-7) in Male Camelus dromedarius Reproductive Organs
by Thnaian A. Al-Thnaian
Animals 2023, 13(7), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13071158 - 25 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1924
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQP) are involved in bidirectional transfers of water and small solutes across cell membranes. They are present in all tissues. However, the expression of AQP-7 has not yet been demonstrated in the reproductive tract of the camelid Camelus dromedarius. The study [...] Read more.
Aquaporins (AQP) are involved in bidirectional transfers of water and small solutes across cell membranes. They are present in all tissues. However, the expression of AQP-7 has not yet been demonstrated in the reproductive tract of the camelid Camelus dromedarius. The study presented here concerns the immunohistochemical evidence of aquaporin-7 (AQP-7) in different parts of the male genital tract of Camelus dromedarius. To check the immune reactivity levels of anti-AQP-7 antibody in the male genital tract of Camelus dromedarius, the testes (proximal part, distal part and rete testis), epididymis (head, body and tail), ductus deferens (initial, middle and ampullary part) and prostate gland (compact and disseminated part) were collected from 12 male camels during the rutting and non-rutting seasons and subjected to immunohistochemistry. The result showed that the highest level of AQP-7 mRNA expression was in the testis of rutting and non-rutting males compared to the ductus deferens, epididymis and prostate. In addition, the highest mRNA gene expression of AQP-7 was in rutting males compared to non-rutting males. AQP-7 mRNA expression was higher in the ret testis, the body of the epididymis, the ampullary part of the ductus deferens and the compact part of the prostate. The immune reactivity levels of AQP-7 in rutting males showed strong reactivity in the testis and prostate compared to the epididymis and ductus deferens. On the basis of the results, it can be concluded that the distribution of the AQP-7 transcript and protein varied among rutting and non-rutting seasons and that the physiological roles of AQP-7 in the transportation of lipids, energy and water should be considered the main challenge in the activity and establishment of male Camelus dromedarius fertility during the rutting and non-rutting seasons. Moreover, AQP-7 detection is critical in assessing regulation and screening for new modulators that can prompt the development of effective medication to enhance fertility during rutting and non-rutting seasons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Camelid Reproduction)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 261 KiB  
Article
Blood Gas, Acid-Base and Electrolyte Analysis in Healthy Dromedary Camel Calves up to 21 Days of Life
by Taher Osman, Monica Probo, Davide Monaco, Hazem Karem Shafiek and Francesca Freccero
Animals 2023, 13(6), 1117; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13061117 - 22 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2267
Abstract
The importance of prompt evaluation and care of the newborn is essential for reducing neonatal mortality, which represents a major cause of loss in camelids. This study investigated the blood gases, acid-base and electrolyte profiles in healthy dromedary calves during the first 3 [...] Read more.
The importance of prompt evaluation and care of the newborn is essential for reducing neonatal mortality, which represents a major cause of loss in camelids. This study investigated the blood gases, acid-base and electrolyte profiles in healthy dromedary calves during the first 3 weeks of life, assessing possible associations with age. Twenty-one dromedary camel calves aged 1 to 21 days were sampled, and venous whole blood analyzed through a VETSTAT® analyzer. The following parameters were measured: sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl–), hydrogen ion concentration (pH), partial pressure carbon dioxide (pCO2), partial pressure oxygen (pO2), total hemoglobin concentration (tHb), hemoglobin oxygen saturation (sO2), total carbon dioxide (tCO2), bicarbonate (HCO3–), base excess (BE) and anion gap (AG). Calves were divided in two groups; younger calves (1–10 d), and older calves (11–21 d). Statistical analysis showed an effect of age, with lower K+ (p < 0.001) and higher Na+ and Cl− (p < 0.05) mean concentrations in the younger calves compared to the older ones, and higher pCO2 and lower sO2 mean concentrations in the older group. These preliminary results firstly described the blood gas, acid-base and electrolyte profiles in the healthy dromedary calf during the first 3 weeks of age, suggesting an effect of age on some parameters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Camelid Reproduction)
14 pages, 3597 KiB  
Article
Ovulation Induced by Intrauterine Seminal Plasma Increases Total Protein, PGE2, IL-8, and IL-1β in Uterine Fluid of Llamas (Lama glama)
by Alejandra Isabel Hidalgo, Cesar Ulloa-Leal, Gonzalo Gajardo, Gerardo López, Daniella Carretta, Rafael Agustín Burgos and Marcelo Ratto
Animals 2023, 13(4), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13040554 - 5 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2481
Abstract
The establishment of a state of immunotolerance in the female reproductive tract is important for embryo development, implantation and placentation. Llamas are induced ovulators and more than 98% of pregnancies occur in the left uterine horn. The objective of this study was to [...] Read more.
The establishment of a state of immunotolerance in the female reproductive tract is important for embryo development, implantation and placentation. Llamas are induced ovulators and more than 98% of pregnancies occur in the left uterine horn. The objective of this study was to determine the uterine immune response of llamas in different stages of the reproductive cycle. Adult llamas (n = 20) were examined daily by transrectal ultrasonography to determine follicular growth and then randomly assigned to four groups: Follicular phase (n = 5); Luteal phase induced by an intramuscular administration of 50 ug of GnRH analogue (n = 5); Luteal phase induced by intrauterine infusion of seminal plasma (n = 5); and Luteal phase induced by mating (n = 5). Uterine fluid was collected separately from both uterine horns by non-surgical flushing to determine the presence of cells, total proteins and concentration of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IFN γ, TNF-α and PGE2. Inflammatory cells were not observed in the uterine fluid and total protein pattern and inflammatory mediators did not differ between the left and the right horn amongst groups. Llamas treated with an intrauterine infusion of seminal plasma showed the highest concentration of total proteins, inflammatory cytokines PGE2, IL-8 and IL-1β in the uterine fluid. In conclusion, seminal plasma is made up of significant numbers of signaling molecules that are able to modify the uterine immune response in llamas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Camelid Reproduction)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-6
Back to TopTop