Professional Journal of Domestic

Professional Journal of Domestic

Scientific and Practical Strategies for Enhancing Fertility in Iranian Livestock and Poultry: A Focus on Reproductive Physiology

Document Type : Scientific-Extensional Article

Authors
Mohammad Javad Karimi Sabet 1
Ali Mostarshed 2
1 Postdoctoral Researcher in Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Science, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Alborz, Iran
2 M.Sc. Student of Animal and Poultry Physiology, Department of Animal Science, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Alborz, Iran
10.22059/domesticsj.2026.109613
Abstract
Fertility is a critical determinant of productivity, economic sustainability, and genetic progress in the livestock and poultry industry. Reproductive success is the result of the coordinated function of the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Gonadal (HPG) axis, gamete growth and maturation, ovulation, fertilization, early embryonic development, corpus luteum function, and the readiness of the female reproductive tract for the implantation and maintenance of pregnancy. These processes are subject to the complex interplay of metabolic, nutritional, environmental, immunological, and managerial factors. In dairy cows, the transition period involves major shifts in energy and lipid metabolism, calcium metabolism, immune function, and inflammatory status; failure to successfully adapt to this phase can lead to impaired reproductive performance. Furthermore, heat stress is a major factor in reduced fertility, as it impacts the reproductive axis, follicular function, steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and embryonic development. In poultry, in addition to heat stress and oxidative stress, declines in sperm quality and fertility in breeding roosters, particularly at older ages, are of significant concern. Accordingly, improving fertility in production units requires an integrated and preventive approach based on transition period management, environmental control, maintenance of reproductive health, monitoring of gamete quality, accurate estrus detection and timing of insemination, and the targeted use of assisted reproductive technologies. The outbreak of war triggers the activation of the stress axis, leads to synergistic effects between oxidative and immune stress, and causes the collapse of biological infrastructure essential for reproductive management in livestock. This paper reviews the key physiological mechanisms affecting fertility, practical scientific strategies applicable to the Iranian livestock and poultry industry, and the impact of war on livestock reproductive physiology.
Keywords
Gamete quality
Heat stress
Oxidative stress
Reproductive management
Uterine health
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Professional Journal of Domestic
Volume 26, Special Issue
In Progress
Summer 2026
Pages 32-38