Abstract

This study aimed to verify the possible interaction between injectable mineral and vitamin supplementation (Kit Adaptador® MIN e Adaptador® VIT, Biogénesis Bagó, Brazil) performed at the beginning of fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocol on reproductive performance and Holstein cows’ fertility. For the study, 100 animals were selected, divided into a non-supplemented control group (CG, n=50) and a treated group (TG, n=50), in which mineral and vitamin supplementation (1mL/100 kg live weight, IM) on the first day of the FTAI protocol (D0) based on intravaginal progesterone (P4) implant and estradiol benzoate. All cows were inseminated ten days after the beginning of the protocol (D10), with blood samples taken at D0 and D17 to quantify the activity of the superoxide dismutase enzyme (SOD) and to measure P4. Ovarian and uterine ultrasound assessments were conducted at moments D0 and D17, and a new exam was performed 30 days after FTAI for pregnancy diagnosis. A larger diameter of the corpus luteum was observed (CG=2.14±0.11cm vs TG=2.64±0.11cm, P=0.0037) and SOD activity (CG=22% vs TG=25.36%, P=0.045) for cows that received mineral and vitamin supplementation. Additionally, differences were observed for the pregnancy rate when comparing the different groups (CG=18.18% vs TG=39.13%, P=0.0029). It is concluded that the mineral and vitamin supplementation performed at the beginning of the FTAI protocol can influence the formation and development of the postovulation corpus luteum, increase the pregnancy rate and stimulating important endogenous antioxidant mechanisms of Holstein cows.

Keywords:Antioxidants; FTAI; Minerals; Pregnancy; Vitamins; Intravaginal progesterone