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Research and Reviews : A Journal of Life Sciences Review Article

Lesser-Known Metabolites Influencing Ovarian Function, Follicular Development, and Embryo Viability in Dairy Cows

  1. Emran Hossain , Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi
  2. Shilpi Islam Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Gazipur Agricultural University, Salna

Abstract

The intricate processes of ovarian function, follicular development, and embryo viability in dairy cows are tightly regulated by a complex network of metabolites. While conventional biomarkers, such as steroid hormones, amino acids, and glucose metabolites, have been extensively studied, a growing body of evidence suggests that lesser-known metabolites play pivotal roles in bovine reproductive physiology. Dairy cattle fertility is critical for maintaining optimal milk production and herd sustainability, necessitating deeper insights into metabolic influences on ovarian function. This review explores the emerging significance of unconventional metabolic intermediates, including lipid-derived molecules, microbiota-associated metabolites, purine and pyrimidine derivatives, and extracellular matrix components, in modulating ovarian follicular dynamics and embryonic survival in dairy cows. Recent findings highlight that sphingosine-1-phosphate and resolvin D1 contribute to follicular angiogenesis and oocyte protection, while butyrate and propionate influence granulosa cell function and steroidogenesis. In dairy cows, the regulation of ovarian oxidative homeostasis is essential for sustained reproductive efficiency, with reactive oxygen species metabolites, such as hydrogen sulfide and peroxynitrite, exerting direct effects on follicular maturation and luteal function. Emerging evidence also underscores the role of plant-derived phytoestrogenic metabolites in modifying follicular estrogen signaling and embryo implantation potential, which is particularly relevant for dairy cows exposed to phytoestrogen-rich diets. Understanding the physiological roles of these metabolites provides novel insights into ovarian metabolic homeostasis, offering potential therapeutic targets for improving fertility outcomes in dairy cattle. Given the economic significance of reproductive efficiency in dairy herds, this review underscores the necessity of expanding metabolic research beyond classical pathways to unravel novel regulators of ovarian function and embryo viability in dairy cows.

Keywords

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