Evidence for Increased Content of PGF2α, PGE2, and 6-keto-PGF1α in Endometrial Tissue Cultures From Heavy Draft Mares in Anestrus With Endometritis.

This research examines the differences in secretion profiles of certain prostaglandins in mares suffering from endometritis compared to those without this condition. The results showed notably heightened levels of prostaglandin F (PGF), prostaglandin E (PGE), and a metabolite of prostacyclin I (6-keto-PGF) in the endometrial tissue cultures of diseased mares.

Objective of the Study

• The main goal of this research was to ascertain whether there are differences in the secretion profiles of specific prostaglandins – Prostaglandin F (PGF), Prostaglandin E (PGE), and a Prostacyclin I metabolite (6-keto-PGF) – in endometrial tissue cultures from heavy draft mares during anestrus (a period of sexual inactivity), particularly between those with endometritis (inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus) and those without.

Research Methodology

• The researchers collected endometrial biopsies from 51 heavy draft mares.
• The control group consisted of mares that showed no signs of endometritis, determined through histological confirmation, and who had no ovarian activity.
• The experimental group included mares that exhibited signs of endometritis, as shown by infiltration of either polymorphonuclear cells and/or lymphocytes in the endometrium, alongside no ovarian activity.
• In total, 22 mares ended up participating in the study after considering the inclusion criteria.

Results and Findings

• Results showed a significant increase in the levels of both PGF and PGE (with P values less than .05 and .001, respectively) in the culture medium for mares suffering from endometritis, compared to the control group.
• There was also increased relative mRNA abundance responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins. This included PGF synthase (PGFS), PGE synthase (PGES), and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase (PTGS2), with P values less than .01 for all.
• The content of the 6-keto-PGF metabolite in the endometrial tissue cultures from mares with endometritis was highly elevated compared to those without endometritis. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the plasma concentration of 6-keto-PGF between the two groups.

Conclusion

• The research concluded that an enhanced endometrial secretion of PGF, PGE, and 6-keto-PGF is associated with endometritis, even in mares during anestrus. This suggests that these prostaglandins may be potential biomarkers for endometritis in mares during anestrus, offering a promising avenue for future research.