Induction and synchronization of ovulation in sows using a Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone Analog (Lecirelin)

Fries, H C CSouza, L PFaccin, J F GReckziegel, M VHernig, LMarimon, B TBernardi, M LWentz, LBortolozzo, F P

The GnRH agonist, Lecirelin (Gestran Plus®; ARSA S.R.L., Buenos Aires, Argentina), was tested for the ability to induce and synchronize ovulation in sows. Sows were uniformly allocated in two groups (n = 56, each) according to parity (2-6), weaning to estrus interval (WEI) and body condition score (BCS). The GnRH analog (25 µg, 1 ml) and saline solution (control group) were injected at estrus onset. Estrus detection and transcutaneous real-time ultrasonography were performed every 8 h. Duration of estrus for the control and treated groups was 66.3 ± 1.3 h and 61.3 ± 1.3 h (P 0.05) by induction of ovulation with Lecirelin. Based on the results found, it can be concluded that Lecirelin injection at estrus onset reduces estrus length and interval between estrus onset and ovulation with no influence on the subsequent reproductive performance.

1. Ovulation
2. Sows
3. Lecirelin
4. Reproductive performance
5. GnRH analog