This week we return to my ‘pregnancy roots’ by looking at the effects of two specific pregnancy hormones in male goats. The paper that the following information was derived from is ‘Effect of a single injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on testicular blood flow measured by color Doppler ultrasonography in male Shiba goats’, by Samir H et al, (J Vet Med Sci, 2015 May, Vol 77(5): pp 549-56). The full paper listing the complete set of findings can be accessed by clicking here.

To begin, the scientists behind this study noted that the technique of Doppler ultrasonography is not regularly used as part of veterinary examination. It is interesting therefore to see what conclusions are drawn regarding including this application for future studies. Utilising one injection of one of two pregnancy hormones - gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) - blood flow and volume within the testicular region was assessed on a type of small male goat, called the Shiba goat. The goats used in this study were described as ‘post-pubertal’ and ranged from 10-12 months old. The results revealed that administration of either pregnancy hormone resulted in an increase in the flow of blood in the testicular region, although it was noted that this effect was better following hCG administration relative to GnRH. With respect to the volume of the testes, a similar pattern was observed although statistically was not considered significant, likely meriting further studies.

Following on, why would such an outcome be of importance to any reproduction specialists and/or those interested in this field? In brief, the methodology described in this paper could aid in improving the fertility of the individual in question. It will be interesting to see if such approaches are used in a variety of animals in future years as the ‘go-to treatment’ when some assistance with reproduction may be required. As Doppler ultrasonography was the technique used to assess changes in both testicular blood flow and volume, it is not unreasonable to consider the use of this application for future studies attempting to treat other individuals for fertility issues. If you would like to know more about Doppler ultrasonography and which of our scanners can perform this function, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 0208 432 9802.