Pregnancy-associated glycoproteins and pregnancy wastage in cattle.

Abstract

Accurate diagnosis of non-pregnancy and prompt re-enlistment of "non-pregnant" cattle into an appropriate breeding protocol are essential components of successful reproductive programs. Various methods aimed at improving detection of pregnancy and identification of non-pregnant cows earlier and more accurately are the focus of previous review articles and beyond the scope of this manuscript. Recently, the ability to measure pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) in cattle has changed how pregnancy and, more importantly, non-pregnancy are detected. This presentation provides an overview of current research on the pregnancy-associated glycoprotein family, and how these glycoproteins might be utilized as indicators of pregnancy wastage in cattle.