Synthesis of Early Pregnancy Factor Using Red Deer (Cervus Elaphus) As a Delayed Implantation Model

Overview

Journal J Assist Reprod Genet

Publisher Springer

Specialties Genetics
Reproductive Medicine

Date 1997 Jan 1

PMID 9013310

Citations 1

Authors

G E Lash

M Legge

M Fisher

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Purpose: This study measured serum early pregnancy factor (EPF) in pregnant red deer (Cervus elaphus) and ascertained whether EPF synthesis is associated with implantation.

Methods: Serial serum samples were taken from mated hinds up to 42 days postconception and analyzed for EPF activity using the rosette inhibition test. EPF activity was then correlated with calving records and stages of preimplantation development.

Results: EPF was detected in all pregnant animals, with a twin pregnancy giving increased EPF activity. Three animals gave an EPF response following fertilization but failed to continue beyond the preimplantation embryo stage. The increase in EPF synthesis previously associated with implantation in other mammals occurred at the blastocyst stage in red deer.

Conclusions: EPF synthesis in red deer (Cervus elaphus) is consistent with the preimplantation period, as occurs in other mammals. However, the second phase of the biphasic increase in early pregnancy factor production is associated with blastocyst formation, not implantation.

Citing Articles

Early pregnancy factor: an unresolved molecule.

Lash G, Legge M J Assist Reprod Genet. 1997; 14(9):495-6.

PMID: 9401864 PMC: 3454840. DOI: 10.1023/a:1021115007575.

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