Reproductive hormone, antral follicle count, and transvaginal oocyte aspiration outcomes in mares receiving intravenous clomiphene citrate

Abstract

The demand for in vitro produced foals is increasing. Unfortunately, the likelihood of producing an in vitro produced embryo is much lower in equine than other species where in vitro fertilization is also in high demand. Herein lies the need for increased efficiency of in vitro embryo production in mares. Two studies were performed whereby mares received intravenous clomiphene citrate to assess the effect on reproductive hormone concentrations, reproductive examinations and oocyte parameters with the aim to explore the use of clomiphene citrate as a means to improve efficiency of equine in vitro embryo production. This thesis contains a review of reproductive physiology and endocrinology in the mare, the use of the mare as a model for human reproductive advancement, folliculogenesis in the mare, and Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) to provide background knowledge and establish the foundation for the objectives of the aforementioned studies. It is followed by the manuscript entitled, “Reproductive hormone, antral follicle count, and transvaginal oocyte aspiration outcomes in mares receiving intravenous clomiphene citrate” that has been submitted for publication.