Changes in Mineral Profiles in Progesterone-based Estrus Induction Protocols and their Relationship with the Phases of Estrous Cycle in Kangayam Cows

Background: For the successful reproduction in Kangayam cows, adequate nutrition containing sufficient quantum of minerals is necessary. Minerals are important cofactors in majority of the metabolic and immune reactions and hormone synthesis that could affect reproduction. Present study was planned to analyse whether mineral levels change in different treatment days following estrus induction and corresponding changes in stages of the estrous cycle. Methods: Non pregnant, pluriparous Kangayam cow (n=70) were allotted to control and different treatment protocols (each consist of 10 cows) based on the transdermal (PNC based groups) and transvaginal application of progesterone (CIDR based group) with a shot of PGF2α one day preceding the day of progesterone removal. Ovulation was induced either using estradiol benzoate or buserelin acetate. Mineral profiles were analysed on the day of progesterone application (APP), removal (REM), AI and 10 days post insemination (10 DPAI). Result: It indicated that changes in the mineral levels between the treatment days especially on the day of AI and 10DAPAI could be correlated with the corresponding follicle and luteal phases and it could be concluded that there were significant changes especially in selenium, manganese, zinc and copper levels between the treatment days in each group which could be extrapolated to have specific roles in stages of estrous cycle. Among these minerals copper levels could be correlated to affect the steroid concentration by altering its metabolism thereby its clearance in Bos indicus breed ie Kangayam breed of Tamil Nadu.