Heat stress induced alterations in prostaglandins, ionic and metabolic contents of sheep endometrial epithelial cells in vitro

Abstract

Background: Heat stress is one of the major factors responsible for reduced fertility in livestock including sheep. The present study was aimed to elucidate the effect of heat stress on prostaglandins, ionic and metabolic contents of sheep endometrial epithelial cell in vitro. Sheep whole genitalia containing ovaries were collected immediately after slaughter and transported to the laboratory. Following washing the healthy and non pregnant uterine lumen with HBSS with gentamycin and 0.1% BSA, HBSS containing 0.3% trypsin was then infused and epithelial cells were isolated by incubation at 370C for 60 min. After cell counting and viability determination, the epithelial cells were cultured in at 38.5oC for 24 hr (control). Heat stressed cultures were acclimated at 38.50C for 6 hr and then placed at 40.50C for 18 hr. Results: In vitro heat shock significantly (P<0.05) increased protein, phosphorous, urea and PGF2α contents in culture medium whereas significantly (P<0.05) decreased SOD content as compared to control. Elevated temperature did not significantly (P<0.05) increase calcium contents but non-significantly (P>0.05) increase glucose, chloride and PGE2 levels in culture medium. It was concluded that heat stress altered prostaglandins, ionic and metabolic contents of endometrial epithelial cells in vitro.