Prostaglandin F2αUpregulates Uterine Immune Defenses in the Presence of the Immunosuppressive Steroid Progesterone

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Abstract
Uterine infections often develop in some livestock species during the first luteal phase postpartum. Exogenous prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)) induces luteolysis, reduces progesterone, and enables the uterus to resolve infections. However, the effects of PGF(2alpha) on luteal function and on immune functions are confounded. These effects must be disentangled to determine whether alternatives to antibiotic treatments can be successfully developed. Treatments were in a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement. Main effects were ovariectomy or sham on day 0 (i.e. estrus), exogenous progesterone or sesame oil from day 0 to 11, and exogenous PGF(2alpha) or saline on day 9. Intrauterine inoculations with Arcanobacterium pyogenes and Escherichia coli were administered on day 6. Ewes treated with exogenous PGF(2alpha) either did not have uterine infections, infections were less severe, or infections were resolving when uteri were examined on day 12, despite increased progesterone. Exogenous PGF(2alpha) has effects on the resolution of uterine infections that are independent of its effects on luteal progesterone production.

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