Influence of the uterine inflammatory response after insemination with frozen-thawed semen on serum concentrations of acute phase proteins in mares.

This research paper focuses on the impact of artificial insemination with frozen-thawed semen on the serum concentrations of serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp), and fibrinogen (Fib) in horses, and how it impacts the uterine inflammatory response, specifically in terms of endometritis.

Research Context and Objectives

• The study involves the examination of the connection between the uterine inflammatory response post insemination with frozen-thawed semen and the serum levels of acute phase proteins (SAA, Hp, Fib) in mares.
• It aims to determine the potential clinical importance of monitoring these protein levels in mare reproductive management and to identify fluctuations in response to artificial insemination.

Research Methodology

• The research used eighteen Standardbred mares grouped into different reproductive statuses – healthy mares in their first postpartum oestrus, healthy barren mares, and mares with endometritis.
• Every mare was artificially inseminated with frozen-thawed semen and evaluated for endometritis during oestrus through bacteriological culture, cytology and the presence of ultrasonically visible intrauterine fluid.
• Measurements of SAA, Hp, and Fib levels were taken from blood samples every 48 hours during oestrus and for 5, 6, or 7 days post-insemination.
• The time of sampling and the quantity of blood samples per mare varied due to the length of the oestrus and the timing of the artificial insemination.

Findings of the Study

• There were no observable differences in the concentrations of SAA, Hp, and Fib over time either before or after the artificial insemination.
• No differences were recorded between the groups of mares, irrespective of their reproductive status.
• The procedure of inseminating mares with frozen-thawed semen did not increase the plasma concentrations of SAA, Hp, and Fib beyond the clinical threshold concentration.
• There were no notable differences between mares that are susceptible or healthy, suggesting that these protein levels do not provide a significant clinical indicator for successful artificial insemination or the presence of inflammation.