Changes in Trace Elements during Follicular Atresia in Goat (Capra hircus) Ovary

Quantitative analysis of follicular fluid and granulosa cells from small, medium and large antral atretic follicles of goat (Capra hircus) ovaries was conducted to study the alterations in trace elements viz zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and iron (Fe). The zinc content was lower in the follicular fluid (0.993 +/- 0.001, 0.935 +/- 0.002, 1.321 +/- 0.001 mu g/ml) and granulosa cells (0.867 +/- 0.002, 0.801 +/- 0.001, 1.073 +/- 0.002 mu g/mg) of small, medium, and large antral atretic follicles respectively than their respective controls. Copper quantity was higher in the follicular fluid (0.113 +/- 0.001, 0: 163 +/- 0: 001, 0.224 +/- 0.001 mu g/ml) and granulosa cells (0.094 +/- 0.001, 0.114 +/- 0.001, 0.182 +/- 0.001 mu g/mg) from small, medium, and large antral atretic follicles respectively than their respective controls. Similarly, iron and manganese was also found higher in the follicular fluid and granulosa cells of small, medium, and large antral atretic follicles than their respective controls. The present study provides the basic data on trace elements that can be safely used as atretic marker and will find use in in vitro studies for fertility improvement plan. Thus, help in elevating the number of ovulations and screening of follicles to enhance the success rate in vivo and in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer technology.