Short-term intake of beta-carotene-supplemented diets enhances ovarian function and progesterone synthesis in goats.

The effect of beta-carotene supplementation upon luteal activity, measured as number (CLT) and volume (VLT) of corpus luteum, and P4 synthesis in goats, was evaluated. Goats (n = 22, 34 months) were randomly assigned to one of two experimental groups: (i) beta-carotene [Beta, n = 10; body weight (BW = 44.8 +/- 1.45 kg), body condition score (BCS = 3.25 +/- 0.07)], and (ii) Control (Control, n = 12; BW = 45.30 +/- 1.32 kg, BCS = 3.33 +/- 0.06). Upon oestrus synchronization, the Beta group received 50 mg of beta-carotene per day during 35 days pre- and 17 days post-ovulation. The day 4, 8, 12 and 16 post-ovulation, blood samples were collected for quantification of serum P4 concentrations by radioimmmunoassay, and transrectal ultrasonographic scanning was performed at day 18 for evaluating CLT and VLT. Overall, CLT and VLT mean were 3.10 and 2211.1 mm(3) respectively. The Beta-goats depicted both the largest values for CLT (p = 0.07) and serum P4 levels (p = 0.05), with no differences (p = 0.53) for VLT between treatments. Results suggest a higher efficiency within the cellular-enzymatic groups defining the steroidogenic pathways in the beta-carotene-supplemented goats, generating a larger P4 synthesis. The last is essential for ovulation of healthy oocytes, maintenance of uterine quiescence, nourishment and survival of the embryo around implantation; all of them of paramount significance during the maternal recognition of pregnancy process.