Review: Unveiling the effect of beta-nerve growth factor on the reproductive function in llamas and cows

The actions of the beta-nerve growth factor (beta-NGF) on the neuroendocrine and reproductive system have challenged classical views on the control of reproductive function. After endometrial absorption, beta-NGF triggers ovulation and promotes the development of functional corpora lutea in camelids. In this article, we review evidence showing that, in camelids, beta-NGF exerts its actions by acting in both the hypothalamus and the ovary. In the hypothalamus, beta-NGF may induce gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release by interacting with neurons or glial cells expressing receptors for beta-NGF. The LH surge occurs under the influence of ovarian estradiol and requires the release of GnRH into the portal vessels to reach the pituitary gland. In the ovary, beta-NGF may be promoting the differentiation of follicular to luteal cells by modifying the steroidogenic profile of ovarian follicular cells in both camelids and ruminants. Although the mechanisms for these actions are largely undetermined, we aim to offer an update on the current understanding of the effects of beta-NGF controlling reproductive function in camelids and ruminants. (c) 2023 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of The Animal Consortium. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Automated summary

The actions of beta-nerve growth factor (beta-NGF) on the neuroendocrine and reproductive system in camelids challenge classical views on reproductive function control. Beta-NGF triggers ovulation and promotes the development of functional corpora lutea in camelids by acting in both the hypothalamus and the ovary.