Abstract
Induction of corpus luteum regression and subsequent estrus using prostaglandin F(2α) (PGF(2α)) in microminipigs was investigated. Microminipigs with normal estrous cycle were treated with PGF(2α) as 0.75 mg (0.75 PG group, n=3) or 1.5 mg (1.5 PG group, n=4) dinoprost injected into the vulva at 24-h intervals at 10 days after the onset of estrus (D0), D1 and D2. Three microminipigs were not treated (control group). The estrous interval in the 1.5 PG group was significantly shortened compared to the control and 0.75 PG groups. Plasma progesterone levels started to decline and reached the base line in the 1.5 PG group significantly faster than in the control group. In conclusion, we demonstrate that multiple PGF(2α) treatments can induce corpus luteum regression and estrous synchronization in female microminipigs.