Factors affecting the fate of the canine corpus luteum: Potential contributors to pregnancy and non-pregnancy

The fate of the canine corpus luteum (CL) differs from that of other domestic species: beyond the extended luteal regression observed in both pregnant and non-pregnant cycles, active luteolysis is observed only in pregnant dogs. Luteal regression in the absence of pregnancy lacks a luteolytic trigger. The CL lifespan during pregnancy is around 60 days, as long as that of the cyclic CL. Although they are already available in the first half of diestrus, LH and especially prolactin (PRL) play a decisive luteotropic role from approximately day 25 post-ovulation onwards. Nevertheless, many locally-produced factors are orchestrated to ensure a fully functional CL, which in the bitch produces progesterone (P4), 17b-estradiol, and other local regulators. Recently, insulin has been described as another luteotropic factor in this species, able to increase glucose uptake in luteal cells and contribute to steroid biosynthesis. The locally-produced PGE2 is also a potent luteotropic factor in the first half of diestrus, promoting STAR expression, as are also proliferating, vasoactive- and immunomodulatory factors. These, in turn, all contribute to the formation and maintenance of the canine CL. Meanwhile PGF2a, produced by the utero-placental compartment, participates actively in triggering pre-partum luteolysis. Cytokines play different roles, either contributing as luteotropic or as acute inflammation molecules. So far, the one clinically most efficient mechanism of interrupting a pregnancy in the dog is to block P4 receptors, using an antigestagen (e.g., aglepristone) in the second half of diestrus. To enhance the chances of pregnancy, however, several luteotropic factors could be used. •Major general and local players controlling the CL lifespan in cyclic and pregnant dogs.