Androgens in Female Pig Reproduction: Actions Mediated by the Androgen Receptor
October 2019
in “
Bioscientifica Proceedings
”
Studysummary This review discusses the roles of androgens in female mammals, focusing on how androgen receptor activity in pig reproductive organs may influence ovulation rate and litter size, but reports no new experimental results.
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The document reviewed 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 dosages 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 future research might uncover new uses for androgens or anti-androgens to enhance sow performance.
