GDF-9 Gene Expression, Oocyte Qulaity, Hematological and Biochemical Profiles Affected by Feed Restriction as a Biostimulant Method on Rabbits' Fertility

Research Abstract

Feed restriction is a good management practice in rabbit breeding not only for the economic importance, but to obtain uniformity in their body weight, avoid fattening and high mortality around parturition and allow a long reproductive life. This study examined the effect of moderate and severe dietary feed restriction followed by refeeding on GDF-9 gene expression in mature and immature oocytes using semi-quantitative real time-PCR. In addition oocyte classification, hematological and some biochemical and hormonal parameters were studied. Results revealed that short feed restriction followed by refeeding enhance the percentage of mature oocytes accompanied by significant increasing in the concentration of GDF-9-mRNA. On the other hand, feed restriction induced normocytic normocromic anemia. In addition, decreased levels of total protein, albumin, blood urea nitrogen and increasing creatinine concentration were observed. All hematological and biochemical parameters returned to its normal values after refeeding. Refeeding can realiminated most of the previous parameters to its normal values. It was concluded that feed restriction and refeeding as a biostimulant method should be applied on rabbits' farms due to its economic importance, increasing animal fertility and has no great

Research Keywords

GDF-9 Gene Expression Oocyte Quality Hematology Biochemical Profile Rabbits