Anti-mullerian hormone in felids: A systematic review

Abstract

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a dimeric glycoprotein that belongs to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily. This hormone that is produced by gonadal Sertoli cells in males and granulosa cells in females has been extensively studied in humans, rodents, and livestock species. Research on AMH in felids began in 2011 and given the increasing number of studies over recent years, an updated literature review is necessary to clarify and organize future research directions. The objective of this article was to conduct a systematic review of AMH in domestic and wild felids. From a literature search of international publications, 23 were selected for inclusion. AMH determinations were performed using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and electrochemiluminescence immunoassays (EQLIA). In female felids, AMH concentrations decrease with age, along with follicular reserve diminution. AMH can also be used to diagnose granulosa cell ovarian tumors and cryptorchidism in females and males, respectively. This hormone serves as a marker for reproductive status and can reflect gonadal function in both genders. Furthermore, AMH may prove to be a valuable predictive tool for reproductive biotechnologies in both domestic and wild felids. Several aspects of this hormone still remain to be elucidated, including its variations throughout the estrous cycle and the effect of photoperiod. Finally, standardization of assays and the establishment of reference ranges for both domestic and wild animals are necessary for widespread clinical application and future research development.

Keywords: Carnivore; Castration; Feline; Reproduction; Spaying.