Seasonal Variation in Bovine Luteal Concentrations of ß-Carotene

Abstract

ß-Carotene is present in extremely high concentrations in bovine corpus luteum. The aim of this study was to examine the extent of the seasonal variation in concentrations of luteal ß-carotene in cows. A total of 102 corpora lutea collected throughout all 12 months of the year were analysed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The mean ß-carotene concentration of the luteal tissues was 58.7 ± 4.5 µg/g. Bovine corpora lutea collected in the warmer months (May-Oct.) contained significantly (P