Influence of L-carnitine on Ovarian Activity, Hormonal Profile and Fertility in Barki Ewes under Semi-Aired Conditions

To evaluate the impact of L-carnitine (LC) on ovarian follicular activity, fertility, and biochemical parameters in Barki ewes under semi-aired conditions, thirty Barki ewes were divided into three groups (10 animals each). The first group functioned as the control group. The second group (T1) received 500 mg LC/ head/ week. The third group (T2) received 1000 mg LC/ head/ week for 9 weeks. The results showed that Pregnancy and fertility rates and prolificacy recorded higher (P<0.05) values in T1 than in control and T2 groups. LC injection efficiently reduced the mortality rate (P<0.05) in comparison to the control group. These findings were supported by blood biochemical and hormonal analysis results as LC-supplemented groups yielded a reduction in serum total cholesterol (TC) and T4 (P<0.05) concentrations when compared to the control group, while, serum concentrations of total protein (TP), albumen (ALB), and T3 were increased (P<0.05) in LC-treatment groups relative to those in the untreated group. Serum progesterone (P4) levels in groups treated with LC were greater (P<0.05) than in the untreated group. Additionally, minor variations were found in follicular diameter and values between the groups. Thus, L-carnitine can be utilized successfully to enhance the induction of Barki ewes' ovulation and early pregnancy success.