The effect of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog, buserelin, on pregnancy rates in horse and pony mares.

This research investigates the effects of a single dose of the hormone buserelin on horse and pony pregnancy rates, finding that buserelin treatment between days 8 and 12 post-breeding significantly increases pregnancy rates by about 10%.

Study Background

• The aim of the researchers was to investigate the potential impact of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog, buserelin, on the pregnancy rates in horse and pony mares.
• It’s important to understand the effects of hormones on mammalian pregnancy rates to help optimize breeding strategies and potentially improve birth rates in various animal species.

Research Methodology

• The research spanned over a period of four years, during which a series of trials were conducted involving a large sample size of 2,346 mares.
• Each mare was administered a single dose of buserelin, ranging from 20 to 40 micrograms, between 8 and 12 days after the mare was serviced.

Study Findings

• Some trial results showed marked improvements in pregnancy rates. However, the authors opted to use a meta-analysis, a statistical analysis that combines results from multiple independent studies, to get a more comprehensive understanding of the data.
• Through this meta-analysis, it was found that significant improvements in the pregnancy rates were realized at all times examined. These times included days 13 to 16, 19 to 23, 28 to 31 and 38 to 42 after the mares were serviced.

Research Conclusions

• The research concludes that a single dose of 20 to 40 micrograms of buserelin, given between the 8th and 12th day post-breeding, can enhance the pregnancy rates in horse and pony mares by approximately 10%
• Such findings can have significant impacts on horse and pony breeding strategies, where increasing the pregnancy rates could be economically very rewarding.