Effects of heat stress on mammalian reproduction

摘要

Heat stress can have large effects on most aspects of reproductive function in mammals. Theseinclude disruptions in spermatogenesis and oocyte development, oocyte maturation, early embryon-ic development, foetal and placental growth and lactation. These deleterious effects of heat stressare the result of either the hyperthermia associated with heat stress or the physiological adjustmentsmade by the heat-stressed animal to regulate body temperature. Many effects of elevated tempera-ture on gametes and the early embryo involve increased production of reactive oxygen species.Genetic adaptation to heat stress is possible both with respect to regulation of body temperatureand cellular resistance to elevated temperature.