Androgen Excess in Beef Cows Results in Altered Theca Cell Gene Expression and Fertilityand

Authors

Adam F. Summers, University of Nebraska–LincolnFollow
William E. Pohlmeier, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Vanessa M. Brauer Brauer, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Kevin M. Sargent, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Renee M. McFee, University of Nebraska–LincolnFollow
Scott G. Kurz, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Robert A. Cushman, U.S. Meat Animal Research CenterFollow
Jennifer R. Wood, University of Nebraska–LincolnFollow
Andrea S. Cupp, University of Nebraska–LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2014

Citation

2014 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report, UNL Extension MP99, pp. 11-13.

Comments

Copyright © 2014 University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Within the University of Nebraska–Lincoln physiology herd, two sub-populations of cows with different concentrations of androstenedione have been identified. Androstenedione is a precursor for estradiol production, and androstenedione concentration is increased 24.5-fold in the high androstenedione cows. Our objective was to determine the cause of increased androstenedione production in high androstenedione cows and the effects on theca cell and oocyte gene expression. High androstenedione cows had increased steroidogenic enzyme abundance in theca cells and altered oocyte mRNA abundance. Increased androgen production in high androstenedione cows is associated with altered gene expression and/or mRNA stability during oocyte growth and maturation, which may reducefertility.