Androgens in Female Pig Reproduction: Actions Mediated by the Androgen Receptor
October 2019
in “
Bioscientifica Proceedings
”
TLDR Androgens may improve pig reproduction by enhancing ovulation and litter size.
This review discussed the roles of androgens in female mammals, focusing on the actions of androgen receptors in the uteri and ovaries of pigs. It was found that using small doses of the androgen receptor agonist DHT (5a-dihydrotestosterone) inhibited some uterine functions while enhancing ovarian follicular development. These effects suggested that androgen therapy could potentially be balanced to improve ovulation rates and litter sizes in gilts and sows. The study indicated that further research might reveal new applications for androgens or anti-androgens to enhance sow performance.