PMSG

Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin (PMSG), also known as Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin (eCG), is a gonadotropic hormone produced by the placentas of pregnant mares. This hormone is used in veterinary medicine and animal breeding, particularly in the management of reproduction in livestock. PMSG has both FSH-like and LH-like activities, which makes it unique among the gonadotropins used in animal reproduction.

Production and Extraction

PMSG is produced by the endometrial cups of pregnant mares, usually between the 40th and 130th days of pregnancy. The hormone is extracted from the blood of pregnant mares, a process that has raised ethical concerns regarding animal welfare.

Applications

The primary application of PMSG is in the induction of ovulation and superovulation in female livestock, such as cows, sheep, and pigs. This is particularly useful in artificial insemination and embryo transfer programs, where the synchronization of ovulation is crucial for success. PMSG is also used in the treatment of certain reproductive disorders and in the synchronization of estrus in animals.

Mechanism of Action

PMSG acts by stimulating the ovarian follicles, leading to the production of estrogen and the growth of the follicles. Its FSH-like activity promotes the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, while its LH-like activity is crucial for the induction of ovulation. The dual activity of PMSG makes it particularly effective in reproductive management protocols.

Controversies and Ethical Considerations

The extraction of PMSG from pregnant mares has been a subject of controversy. Concerns have been raised about the welfare of the mares and the conditions under which they are kept. Animal welfare organizations have called for more humane alternatives to be developed and for stricter regulations on the production of PMSG.

See Also

• Gonadotropin
• Artificial insemination
• Embryo transfer
• Ovulation
• Superovulation

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