Embryo transfer in the White-tailed deer: A reproductive model for endangered deer species of the world

S J Waldhalm; H A Jacobson; S K Dhungel; H J Bearden

doi:10.1016/0093-691x(89)90549-9

Embryo transfer in the White-tailed deer: A reproductive model for endangered deer species of the world

Theriogenology. 1989 Feb;31(2):437-50. doi: 10.1016/0093-691x(89)90549-9.

Authors

S J Waldhalm¹, H A Jacobson, S K Dhungel, H J Bearden

Affiliation

¹ College of Veterinary Medicine Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762 USA.

PMID: 16726563
DOI: 10.1016/0093-691x(89)90549-9

Abstract

A model for artificial propagation of wild, seasonal breeding deer was developed using the White-tailed deer, Odocoileus , virginianus . Preseason estrus induction following removal of vaginal pessaries containing medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) was successful in four of seven animals. Synchronization of estrus was achieved in seven of nine attempts when does were treated with prostaglandin F(2) alpha (PGF(2)alpha) 7 to 14 d following observed estrus. Superovulation was achieved in two of five does treated with 1000 IU of pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMSG) at the time of vaginal pessary MPA withdrawal. Superovulation was achieved in two of three does treated with 1000 IU of PMSG at the time of estrus induction with PGF(2)alpha. Surgical embryo recoveries attempted on six does resulted in a 68% embryo recovery rate based on numbers of corpora lutea observed. Surgical embryo transfers from two donors to three recipient does resulted in one pregnancy maintained to full term.