Significant Research Contributions.

i) The initial report identifying that estrogen of placental origin were detectable in maternal plasma of sows (Robertson & King, 1974, Journal of Reproduction and Fertility, 40:133-142). This investigation was one of the earliest applications of ligand binding assays in reproductive research on domesticated mammals.

ii) Original findings on the timing and nature of placentation in domesticated mammals (King et al. 1979, Journal of Reproduction and Fertility, 55: 173-180). In addition to numerous publications in refereed journals, special publications and books, various invitations were extended to present this work at meetings and symposia, including sessions organized by the International Morphology Society (King, 1993, Journal of Experimental Zoology, 266:588-602) and the Society for the Study of Fertility held at the Royal Society, London (King et al. 1982, Journal of Reproduction and Fertility, Supp. 31:17-30).

iii) Investigations into estrous behaviour of domesticated animals. Development of methodology for this research included the use of time-lapse video recording and the first use of sequential monitoring of plasma progesterone as an indicator of ovarian function in postpartum cows (King et al. 1976. Journal of Animal Science, 42:688-692). Research conducted and published in this area produced numerous requests for reprints and talks. The most recent were given as special invited speaker at meetings organized in Australia, and Chile, during the summer and fall, 1996. A summary of research findings and the latest recommendations for achieving high estrous detection efficiency in dairy herds can be found on the Internet.

iv) Early investigations into immunoreproduction in domesticated animals. This work began about 1980 and produced some of the first papers on leukocyte distribution in the uterus of domesticated mammals during early gestation (Vander Wielan & King, 1984, Journal of Reproduction and Fertility, 70:457-462; King, 1988, Journal of Reproductive Immunology, 14:41-46). More recent projects concentrated on classification of leukocyte types and possible function as placentation progresses. A current research associate, Dr. H. Engelhardt, who is now expanding the research in this area, was invited to review our findings on immunoreproduction at the Fifth International Congress on Pig Reproduction, held in The Netherlands in June, 1997.

v) First report on the use of multiple Prostaglandin F2a injections to regulate ovarian function in cows or heifers. (King & Robertson, 1974, Theriogenology, 1:123).

A listing of related publications can be obtained by clicking on the appropriate phrase below.

Conceptus-Maternal Interations (placentation, endocrinology, immunology)

Estrous Behaviour - Detection

Reproductive Performance & Techniques

Ovarian - Uterine Function

Reproductive Immunology

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