Nortestosterone: endogenous in urine of goats, sheep and mares?

This research study delves into the possible endogenous generation of a hormone called nortestosterone in goats, sheep, and mares. The findings confirm the presence of this hormone in goats and horses during pregnancy, but not in sheep.

Research Objective and Methodology

• The main objective of this study was to validate whether the hormone nortestosterone, either the alpha- or beta-epimer, can be naturally produced (or endogenous) in animals such as goats, sheep, and mares, a concept previously unproven for these species.
• Pregnant goats, sheep, and mares were selected for the study since hormonal fluctuations linked to pregnancy could induce the endogenous production of nortestosterone. A substantial number of urine samples were collected from these animals.
• The urine samples were meticulously analysed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), a method used to identify different substances within a test sample. This technique was used to determine the presence of alpha- and beta-nortestosterone and alpha-estradiol.

Major Findings

• The results unveiled the presence of alpha-nortestosterone during pregnancy in the investigated goats and mares. This is a significant finding, indicating that these species can naturally produce this hormone under certain conditions (like pregnancy).
• However, no traces of alpha-nortestosterone were found in the urine samples of sheep in this study.
• The research conclusions, along with other recently published data, provide solid evidence to support the belief that alpha-nortestosterone can be endogenously produced in certain animal species.

Significance of the Research

• This study broadens the understanding of hormonal generation in different animal species. The newly unveiled knowledge adds valuable information to the knowledge base surrounding reproduction and pregnancy in these species.