Abstract

CORTES-VIDAURI, Zimri et al. Mare Reproductive Cycle: A Review. Abanico vet [online]. 2018, vol.8, n.3, pp.14-41. ISSN 2448-6132.  https://doi.org/10.21929/abavet2018.83.1.

The estrous cycle or interovulatory interval in the mare allows monitoring and selection of the most appropriate time for copulation or artificial insemination (AI). Estrous cycle is an interaction of hormones of the pineal gland, hypothalamus, pituitary, gonad and endometrium lasting 21 days. The pineal gland secretes melatonin during dark hours. In spring and summer, there is less melatonin secretion, and the hypothalamus secretes gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) to induce gonadotropins secretion: (FSH, follicle-stimulating hormone, and LH, luteinizing hormone) in the anterior pituitary and stimulates the ovulatory function. FSH promotes follicular growth and LH, follicular maturation and ovulation. Both stimulate the production of estradiol in the ovarian follicles. Estradiol causes estrus signs. After ovulation, the corpus luteum is formed and produces progesterone (P4) for gestation. P4 blocks the hypothalamus and reduces the secretion of GnRH, interrupting the estrous cycle. The hypothalamus produces oxytocin, which is stored in the neurohypophysis (posterior pituitary): and acts on the endometrium, stimulating prostaglandin F2α secretion, to exert luteolysis and the start of a new estrous cycle. In autumn and winter, ovulatory activity is interrupted.

Keywords : mares; estrous cycle; interovulatory period; estrus; ovulation; seasonality.

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