Bioscientifica Proceedings

Summary. Declining fertility and perturbations in reproductive development in a variety of species have been linked to exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which are ubiquitous in the environment. Ruminants are largely exposed to such chemicals in sewage sludge fertiliser widely used in animal production systems. This has been investigated experimentally through the deliberate exposure of pregnant ewes to sewage sludge fertilised pastures or cont...

Summary. Development of the corpus luteum (CL) is vital for the early increase in postovulatory progesterone that drives embryo development and the successful establishment of pregnancy. Following ovulation, rapid and dramatic cellular reorganisation and intense angiogenesis are required to support the timely transition to progesterone secretion. In addition to inherent physiological challenges, this process is sensitive to any imbalance in metabolism or healt...