Veterinary Reproductive Physiology, Endocrinology, Management and Diseases

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Reproductive efficiency is one of the main pillars supporting sustainable livestock production, directly impacting productivity, animal welfare, and profitability. Understanding the physiological and endocrine mechanisms that govern reproduction, as well as the pathogenesis and management of reproductive disorders, is essential for advancing veterinary medicine and animal production systems. This Topic is dedicated to exploring the most recent findings and innovations in reproductive physiology, endocrinology, and diseases affecting livestock species, with a strong focus on cattle. Given the global economic importance of bovine reproduction, this Topic welcomes studies related to folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, embryo development, gamete cryopreservation, reproductive biotechnologies, and the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of reproductive diseases in both female and male animals. We also encourage the submission of high-quality studies involving other farm animals, such as pigs, sheep, goats, and horses, particularly those addressing comparative physiology, endocrine regulation, and clinical reproductive issues. Interdisciplinary approaches involving molecular biology, biotechnology, pathology, epidemiology, and clinical veterinary science are especially welcome. Our aim is to highlight innovative and impactful research that will help shape the next generation of reproductive technologies and improve the reproductive health of livestock around the world.

Dr. José Felipe Warmling Sprícigo
Dr. Margot Alves Nunes Dode
Dr. Ivo Pivato
Dr. Osvaldo Bogado Pascottini
Dr. Tony Bruinjé
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Animals animals	3.2	5.5	2011	15.7 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Dairy dairy	3.0	5.4	2020	31.2 Days	CHF 1400	Submit
Metabolites metabolites	4.5	8.1	2011	12.6 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Veterinary Sciences vetsci	2.7	3.9	2014	16.3 Days	CHF 2100	Submit

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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All Animals Dairy Metabolites Veterinary Sciences

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9 pages, 203 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Laterality and Breed Distribution of Cryptorchidism in 251 Dogs: A Retrospective Clinical Study

by Rafalska Agata and Domosławska Anna

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(5), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13050478 - 15 May 2026

Viewed by 974

Abstract

Cryptorchidism is one of the most frequently diagnosed developmental disorders of the male canine reproductive system, defined as the failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum. Physiologically, testicular descent is typically completed by six to eight weeks of age, [...] Read more.

Cryptorchidism is one of the most frequently diagnosed developmental disorders of the male canine reproductive system, defined as the failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum. Physiologically, testicular descent is typically completed by six to eight weeks of age, although some authors extend this period to sixteen weeks. Failure of testicular descent beyond this timeframe is considered pathological. The condition has multiple causes and affects between 1% and 10% of the canine population. Genetics is the most significant factor, indicating the hereditary basis of cryptorchidism. In addition, increasing attention has been directed toward the potential impact of environmental and epigenetic factors on the incidence of cryptorchidism, suggesting that the condition may result from complex interactions between genetic predisposition and external influences. The effect of hormones (such as INSL3 and testosterone), mechanical factors (including narrowing of the inguinal canal, abnormalities of the gubernaculum, and shortening of the spermatic cord), and environmental factors (for example, exposure to external estrogens and maternal stress during pregnancy) all contribute to the development of this disorder. Recent results have emphasized the role of the orexin system, particularly the OX2R receptor, in regulating endocrine and reproductive functions in cryptorchid testes. Computed tomography is increasingly utilized in complex cases due to its high precision in localizing retained testes. Clinically, cryptorchidism may present unilaterally or bilaterally. Unilateral cryptorchidism may preserve partial fertility, whereas bilateral cryptorchidism results in complete infertility. Undescended testes may be located in the abdominal cavity or inguinal canal. Major complications include an increased risk of testicular cancer (Sertoli cell tumors and seminomas) and endocrine disorders leading to feminization. Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and imaging modalities such as ultrasound. Orchiectomy, involving the removal of both the retained and normally descended testicles, is thought to be the gold standard for treatment. This method helps avoid complications and the transmission of the defect to offspring. According to Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) standards, affected individuals should not be used for breeding or shows. Early detection, surgical intervention, and consistent exclusion from breeding programs are the primary strategies for reducing the incidence of this disorder in the canine population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Veterinary Reproductive Physiology, Endocrinology, Management and Diseases)

14 pages, 695 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Dose-Dependent Effects of Heat Shock Cognate 70 on Viability and Apoptosis-Related Gene Expression in In Vitro-Produced Bovine Embryos

by Aimé Jazmin Garza-Arredondo, Diana Eliza Zamora-Ávila, Gustavo Moreno-Degollado, Denisse Melisa Garza Hernandez, José Fernando de la Torre Sanchez, Sandra Pérez-Reynoso, Rubén Cervantes-Vega and Uziel Castillo-Velázquez

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(4), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13040339 - 31 Mar 2026

Viewed by 653

Abstract

Endogenous heat shock cognate 73 kDa protein (HSC70) plays a role in early embryonic development and cellular stress regulation. This study evaluated the effects of exogenous recombinant HSC70 supplementation on bovine embryo development and the expression of apoptosis-related genes under in vitro conditions. [...] Read more.

Endogenous heat shock cognate 73 kDa protein (HSC70) plays a role in early embryonic development and cellular stress regulation. This study evaluated the effects of exogenous recombinant HSC70 supplementation on bovine embryo development and the expression of apoptosis-related genes under in vitro conditions. Expression analyses of HSPA1A, HSPA8, BCL-2, and BAX were performed on Day 7 bovine embryos produced in vivo and in vitro. In vitro embryos exhibited higher basal expressions of HSPA8, BAX and BCL-2 compared with in vivo embryos (p ≤ 0.001). Supplementation with 500 or 1000 ng/mL HSC70 was associated with increased expression of HSPA1A, HSPA8, BCL-2, and BAX relative to control embryos (p ≤ 0.01). The 1000 ng/mL group showed significantly higher HSPA8 expression compared with both the control and 500 ng/mL groups. Morphological evaluation indicated that embryos supplemented with 500 ng/mL were associated with improved blastocyst yield and quality compared with control and 1000 ng/mL groups.In conclusion, supplementation with 500 ng/mL recombinant HSC70 was associated with modulation of apoptosis-related gene expression and improved morphological developmental parameters under in vitro conditions. These findings indicate dose-dependent regulatory effects of HSC70 on apoptosis-related signaling pathways; however, as apoptosis was assessed at the transcriptional level, the results should be interpreted as molecular associations rather than direct confirmation of altered apoptotic activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Veterinary Reproductive Physiology, Endocrinology, Management and Diseases)

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12 pages, 549 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Reproductive and Productive Performance of Romanian Buffaloes Under Temperate-Continental Conditions: A 30-Year Retrospective Study

by Crina-Raluca Andrei, Nicolae Tiberiu Constantin, Remus Ioan Chiorean, Adrian Bota, Florin Petrișor Posastiuc, Mariana Ioniță and Ioan Liviu Mitrea

Dairy 2026, 7(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/dairy7020024 - 17 Mar 2026

Viewed by 940

Abstract

This study evaluated key reproductive and productive parameters of the Romanian buffalo reared under temperate-continental conditions. Data collected over a 30-year period (1990–2020) from 310 female buffaloes raised at the Şercaia Buffalo Research and Development Station (Brașov County, Romania) were analyzed. Only animals [...] Read more.

This study evaluated key reproductive and productive parameters of the Romanian buffalo reared under temperate-continental conditions. Data collected over a 30-year period (1990–2020) from 310 female buffaloes raised at the Şercaia Buffalo Research and Development Station (Brașov County, Romania) were analyzed. Only animals that completed their first gestation and calving within the herd and had complete lifetime records were included. Buffaloes were monitored longitudinally from first calving until the end of their productive life, regardless of the reason for exit. The evaluated traits included age at first calving, number of lactations, milk yield, milk fat content, and the effect of calf sex on milk production. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, group comparisons, and linear regression. Mean age at first calving was 51.6 ± 14.0 months, and females completed an average of 7.8 ± 3.0 lactations, indicating good reproductive longevity. Buffaloes calving male offspring produced significantly more milk per lactation (1272 ± 267 L) than those calving female offspring (1099 ± 244 L; p < 0.01). Milk fat content averaged approximately 7% and did not differ significantly between females giving birth to female offspring and those giving birth to male offspring (p > 0.05). Overall, the results indicate good productive stability and reproductive durability of the Romanian buffalo under semi-intensive management and confirm its adaptability to temperate environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Veterinary Reproductive Physiology, Endocrinology, Management and Diseases)

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13 pages, 1299 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Post-Exercise Shifts in the Hemato–Biochemical Profile of Unacclimatized Camels (Camelus dromedarius)

by Mohammed A. Al-Badwi, Emad M. Samara, Khalid A. Abdoun and Ahmed A. Al-Haidary

Animals 2025, 15(21), 3061; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15213061 - 22 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1064

Abstract

Exercise-unacclimatized dromedary camels regularly perform strenuous work in desert heat; however, their short-term hematologic and biochemical recovery is not well defined. In this prospective repeated-measures experiment, seven healthy bulls underwent a standardized 90 min outdoor exercise bout, with blood sampled before exercise and [...] Read more.

Exercise-unacclimatized dromedary camels regularly perform strenuous work in desert heat; however, their short-term hematologic and biochemical recovery is not well defined. In this prospective repeated-measures experiment, seven healthy bulls underwent a standardized 90 min outdoor exercise bout, with blood sampled before exercise and at 0, 3, 6, 24, and 48 h of recovery. The analytical panel included hematology, primary hemostasis, electrolytes, osmolality, protein fractions, metabolites, and serum enzymes. Red-cell indices remained stable, indicating minimal erythrocyte mobilization, while bleeding time shortened sharply at 0 h and normalized by 3 h. Sodium and osmolality followed a biphasic pattern with an early rise at 3 h, a nadir at 6 h, and partial rebound by 24 h, whereas potassium and phosphate stayed depressed from 6 to 48 h. Proteins and glucose showed transient changes, and muscle-associated enzymes, especially lactate dehydrogenase, peaked early before declining. These findings demonstrate that camels tolerate combined exercise and heat stress but require up to 48 h to re-establish biochemical balance. The recovery timeline provides a clinically relevant framework for sampling, welfare monitoring, and management of work–rest cycles in desert environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Veterinary Reproductive Physiology, Endocrinology, Management and Diseases)

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13 pages, 7434 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Ipriflavone Inhibits Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Infection via RIG-I/IRF3-Mediated Interferon Signaling

by Yafei Chang, Zhaopeng Li, Kanglei Pei, Mengqi Wang and Xiaobo Chang

Animals 2025, 15(19), 2840; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15192840 - 29 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1017

Abstract

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) remains one of the most important pathogens, resulting in huge economic losses to the global pig industry. Ipriflavone is an isoflavone derivative involved in various biological processes, showing anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. However, the [...] Read more.

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) remains one of the most important pathogens, resulting in huge economic losses to the global pig industry. Ipriflavone is an isoflavone derivative involved in various biological processes, showing anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. However, the role of ipriflavone in antiviral immune response to PRRSV is unknown. In this study, we discovered that ipriflavone could significantly inhibit PRRSV replication. Moreover, ipriflavone inhibited PRRSV replication regardless of whether ipriflavone was added pre-, co-, or post-PRRSV infection, and ipriflavone mainly inhibited virus replication and assembly stages. Importantly, ipriflavone had the capacity to upregulate the expression levels of IFN-β and ISG56. Additionally, ipriflavone promoted the expression of RIG-I and MAVS, and induced phosphorylation of IRF3 and STAT1, while reducing PRRSV replication. Collectively, ipriflavone could enhance the RIG-I/IRF3 signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting PRRSV replication. These findings will provide an important theoretical basis for the development of therapeutic agents against PRRSV infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Veterinary Reproductive Physiology, Endocrinology, Management and Diseases)

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15 pages, 3926 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Establishment and Characterization of an Immortalized Oviduct Epithelial Cell Line from Yak (Bos grunniens)

by Wenyi Cai, Yuting Jiang, Xuelian Xu, Qiliang Ma, Congcong Xu, Wei Fu and Daoliang Lan

Animals 2025, 15(17), 2509; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15172509 - 26 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1448

Abstract

Oviduct epithelial cells (OECs) constitute a critical component of the oviductal mucosa, providing essential microenvironmental support for fertilization and early embryonic development. Their frequent application in embryo co-culture systems is constrained in yaks (Bos grunniens) by limited tissue availability and the [...] Read more.

Oviduct epithelial cells (OECs) constitute a critical component of the oviductal mucosa, providing essential microenvironmental support for fertilization and early embryonic development. Their frequent application in embryo co-culture systems is constrained in yaks (Bos grunniens) by limited tissue availability and the short lifespan of primary yak oviduct epithelial cells (YOECs). To address this limitation, we established immortalized YOEC lines using a lentiviral vector system. Primary YOECs isolated from reproductive tract tissues of adult female yaks via enzymatic digestion were immortalized through individual and combined transfection with simian virus 40 large T antigen (SV40LT) and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT). The resulting immortalized lines (YOECs-S: SV40LT alone; YOECs-HS: dual SV40LT/hTERT) kept their typical cobblestone shape and still made cytokeratin 18. Both lines exhibited stable SV40LT and hTERT expression (p > 50), maintained diploid karyotypes, and demonstrated serum-dependent growth, contact inhibition, and hormone responsiveness. Notably, YOECs-HS displayed superior proliferative capacity and phenotypic stability during long-term culture. This study reports the first successful establishment and comprehensive characterization of immortalized YOEC lines. These validated models provide a valuable experimental platform for optimizing yak embryo–oviduct epithelial cell co-culture systems and advancing reproductive research in this high-altitude-adapted species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Veterinary Reproductive Physiology, Endocrinology, Management and Diseases)

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