Effect of early luteolysis in progesterone-based timed AI protocols in Bos indicus, Bos indicus × Bos taurus, and Bos taurus heifers

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of treatment with an intravaginal progesterone-releasing device (CIDR) and estradiol benzoate (EB) on follicular dynamics in Bos indicus (n = 23), Bos taurus (n = 25), and cross-bred (n = 23) heifers. To assess the influence of reduced serum progesterone concentrations during 8 days of treatment with a progesterone-releasing device on follicular dynamics, half of the heifers received PGF at CIDR insertion (Day 0; 3 × 2 factorial design). Mean (±S.E.M.) serum progesterone concentrations during CIDR treatment varied (P < 0.05) among genetic groups: B. indicus (5.4 ± 0.1 ng/mL), B. taurus (3.3 ± 0.0 ng/mL), and cross-bred (4.3 ± 0.1 ng/mL). Maximum diameter of the dominant follicle (DF) was smaller (P < 0.01) in B. indicus heifers (9.5 ± 0.5 mm) than in cross-bred (12.3 ± 0.4 mm) or B. taurus heifers (11.6 ± 0.5 mm). B. indicus experienced lower (P < 0.01) ovulation rate (39.1%) than did B. taurus (72.7%) and cross-bred (84.0%). Heifers treated with PGF on Day 0 had lower (P < 0.05) serum progesterone concentrations during progesterone treatment. The PGF treatment on Day 0 increased (P < 0.01) the diameter of the DF (11.9 ± 0.4 mm vs. 10.5 ± 0.4 mm). Moreover, greater (P = 0.02) ovulation rates (78.8 vs. 54.0%) occurred in heifers treated with PGF on Day 0. In summary, B. indicus heifers had greater serum progesterone concentrations, smaller DF diameter, and a lower ovulation rate compared to B. taurus heifers. Prostaglandin treatment on the day of CIDR insertion reduced serum progesterone during treatment, and resulted in increased maximum DF diameter and ovulation rate.