Proteins secreted by Day-16 to -18 bovine conceptuses extend corpus luteum function in cows

Abstract
Corpus luteum function, interoestrous interval and spontaneous uterine PGF-2.alpha. (PGF) production were evaluated in 9 cyclic Holstein cows (3/group) after intrauterine injections of pooled conceptus secretory proteins, 5.beta.-pregnan-3.alpha.-ol-20-one, or homologous serum proteins on Days 15.5 through 21 after oestrus. A significant extension of corpus luteum lifespan and interoestrous interval were detected in cows treated with conceptus secretory proteins compared to the other 2 groups. CL lifespan and interoestrous interval were not different (P > 0.25) between 5.beta.-pregnan-3.alpha.-ol-20-one and control groups. Evaluation of spotaneous PGF responses suggested that proteins synthesized and secreted by the bovine conceptus accomodate luteal maintenance during early gestation via an attenuation of endometrial PGF production.