Abstract
Factors associated with high milk production levels have been linked to alterations in the endometrial epidermal growth factor (EGF) profile, a cause of reduced fertility in dairy cows. Therefore, we examined the leptin system that connects nutritional status and reproduction in dairy cattle related to reduced fertility in repeat breeder cows. Plasma leptin concentrations were measured in 18 heifers, 20 high-yielding control cows, and 26 repeat breeder cows, showing an altered EGF profile. Then, all repeat breeder cows were infused with seminal plasma (SP) into the vagina at the next estrus to normalize the EGF profile, while heifers and control cows were infused with vehicle alone. All animals were examined for EGF profiles. Eighteen repeat breeder cows, nine heifers, and nine control cows were also determined for leptin receptor (Ob-R) expression levels in the estrous cycle before and after the infusion. SP normalized the EGF profile in 53.8% of the repeat breeder cows. Leptin concentrations were similar in all groups, regardless of the treatment results for the EGF profile. In contrast, Ob-R levels in repeat breeder and control cows were similar and higher than those in heifers before SP treatment. Ob-R in repeat breeders showing a normal EGF profile after treatment decreased to an intermediate level between heifers and control cows and may provide a clue to take measures against repeat breeding in dairy cows.