Peripheral blood T regulatory cell profiles in repeat-breeder Cattle: Differential responses to seminal components

This study investigated the T regulatory cell (Treg) profiles and responses to seminal components in repeat-breeding cattle to identify the immunological mechanisms underlying reproductive failure in these animals. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from healthy (n = 6) and repeat-breeder Jersey cattle (n = 6). The expression of Treg markers (FOXP3, CD25, CTLA4, CCR7, and WC1) and cytokines (IL-10, IL-4, TGF-β, and IL-2) was analyzed using quantitative PCR. PBMCs were cultured with seminal plasma (50 μg/mL) or sperm proteins (50-100 μg/mL) for 5 days. Cytokine secretion was measured using ELISA, and FOXP3 protein expression was measured using immunofluorescence (IF). Repeat breeders showed reduced FOXP3 (0.68-fold, p = 0.031), CCR7 (0.42-fold, p = 0.008), WC1 (0.61-fold, p = 0.045), and IL-10 (0.31-fold, p = 0.022) expression, with elevated CD25 (3.12-fold, p = 0.006), CTLA4 (1.38-fold, p < 0.001), and IL-4 (1.21-fold, p < 0.001) compared to healthy cattle. Baseline cytokine secretion revealed higher IL-4 and IL-10 production in repeat-breeder cows. Dexamethasone increased FOXP3 gene expression in repeat breeders but decreased their protein levels. Sperm proteins enhanced FOXP3 expression and cytokine production in both groups, with stronger responses in repeat breeders. Seminal plasma suppressed FOXP3 expression (<5 % positive cells) while stimulating TGF-β production in PBMCs. Repeat-breeding cattle exhibit systemic Treg dysfunction, characterized by reduced FOXP3 and regulatory markers and compensatory activation patterns. Differential responses to seminal components suggest distinct immunomodulatory mechanisms that may contribute to reproductive failure and represent potential therapeutic targets.