THE present study aimed to clarify the alternations in alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), phosphorus (Ph), calcium (Ca), and metabolic hormones (Growth hormones (GH), insulin, and thyroid gland hormones) in singleton, twin, and triplet pregnancy in goats. Animals were examined for pregnancy ultrasonographically during mid-pregnancy (6-14 weeks of gestation), and were classified conferring to litter size into singleton (n =55), twin (n=25) and triple (n=6) pregnancy, and non-pregnant status (n=64). Blood samples (5 ml) were collected before ultrasound examination and serum was separated for analysis of alpha-fetoprotein, phosphorus, calcium, and GH, insulin, T3, and T4. The current data showed that the fetal numbers markedly influenced AFP, Ph, Ca, GH, insulin, T3 levels, but did not affect T4 and Ph/Ca ratio. AFP levels were higher in twin (P< 0.05) and triple (P< 0.001) bearing does than in non-pregnant does (56.00±5.00 and 87.00±1.90 vs 3.80±.051 ng/ml). Phosphorus and Ca levels declined with pregnancy, with the substantial decreased in multiple feti compared with non-pregnant does. Growth hormone imminently raised in twin and triplet fetuses than non-pregnant does. Insulin levels elevated in triple compared to non-pregnant and singleton (P< 0.005). Serum free T3 levels were lower in single and twin bearing does than non-pregnancy. In conclusion, fetal number markedly influenced the dam metabolic profile and mineral homostatis through altering AFP and metabolic hormones levels during pregnancy in goats. |
