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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Effect of Ewe Nutritional Restriction During Gestation on the Number of Sertoli Cells in the Offspring: A Meta-Analysis.

Year:
2026
Authors:
Espinosa-Martínez MA et al.
Affiliation:
CENID Fisiología y Mejoramiento Animal-INIFAP

Abstract

Maternal nutrition during gestation critically influences foetal reproductive programming. To clarify inconsistent evidence, a meta-analysis was performed to assess the effect of maternal nutritional restriction on the number of Sertoli cells in ovine offspring. A systematic review in PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and Science Direct identified three studies (four comparisons; n = 52). Standardised mean differences (Hedges' g) were calculated using a random-effects model. The pooled effect was significant (g = -0.95, 95% CI: -1.49 to -0.41; p < 0.001), with no heterogeneity (I<sup>2</sup> = 0%) or publication bias (Egger's test p = 0.616). In conclusion, maternal undernutrition reduces Sertoli cell numbers by approximately one standard deviation.

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Original publication: https://europepmc.org/article/MED/41665278