Hormonal Induction and Synchronization of Estrus in Mice

The present study was carried out to evaluate different estrus synchronization protocols in mice and follow up the proportion of delivery and gender of litters. Five protocols were tested with total number of 48 adult females that divided equally into six groups including control. Total number of 24 adult males were divided equally and introduced for mating for four days. Hormonal synchronization including intraperitoneal administration of single or double dose of 0.5 µg Cloprostenol (Prostaglandin F(PGF)) and 3 µg of Progesterone (P4), with or without 5 IU of equine Chorionic Gonadotropin (eCG) in five protocols. Results showed that estrus and mating rate increase significantly after administration of PGF (P<0.05). However, low delivery rate was evident in all groups. There were no differences in the average number and the proportion of gender of litters within groups. In conclusion, synchronization of estrus in mice was not fully achieved using the current protocols. However, administration of prostaglandin increases mating rate, but the pregnancy success might fundamentally depend on other factors such as managemental.