Concentrations of uterine luminal prostaglandins in mares with acute and persistent endometritis.

The study explores the link between uterine luminal prostaglandins concentrations in mares suffering from acute and persistent endometritis. The research reveals that there’s a significant correlation between viable neutrophils and total protein concentrations as well as between prostaglandin concentrations in washings.

Research Methodology and Results

• The experiment was conducted on four mares with normal genital health. The researchers simulated acute endometritis, a uterine infection, using a 1 per cent oyster glycogen solution.
• The procedure resulted in an increase in the quantity of viable neutrophils, immune cells that play a critical role in fighting infections, within an hour of the infusion. These numbers remained high for approximately 72 hours.
• Results showed a significant correlation between the count of viable neutrophils and the total protein concentrations recovered in uterine washings. Similarly, a significant correlation was also observed between concentrations of two types of prostaglandins – Prostaglandin F (PGF) and Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2).

Correlation between Prostaglandin Concentrations

• The study also discovered a significant correlation between the concentration of another variant of the prostaglandin – 15-keto-13,14-dihydro PGF2 alpha, in the plasma and PGF in the washings.
• It was observed that the intrauterine concentrations of PGF in the mares were influenced by their cycle stage. The induced acute endometritis also adversely affected their normal ovarian function.
• Mares with persistent endometritis (a prolonged inflammation of the uterine lining) generally had significantly higher concentrations of PGF and proteins in their washings. Furthermore, they also displayed a higher percentage of neutrophils and mononuclear cells compared to normal mares.

White Blood Cells and Prostaglandin Production

• The research found out that the white blood cells drawn from the mares were able to produce PGF and PGE2 in a laboratory (in vitro) setting.

In summary, the study provides significant insights into the interplay between immune response, hormones and urogenital health in mares. Evidence from the research suggests that acute and persistent endometritis in mares is notably linked with significant increases in neutrophil count, protein levels and prostaglandin concentrations.