WO2023230621A1 - Non-surgical prevention of unpleasant odor in meats and aggressive or sexual behavior in male ruminants - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention provide a pharmaceutical intervention in the neonatal to infantile ruminants that inhibits the activation of the HPG axis, growth of the testis and inhibits testicular production of testosterone, which prevent the development of aggressive behavior in the maturing males and the presence of male-specific odor in the meat. The invention comprises treatment with an estrogen or a combination of an estrogen and an androgen in the newborn males using extended drug delivery methods, with a defined duration of no more than 1-4 months or infantile period of growth, for the purpose of inhibiting the production of testosterone and the accumulation of male-specific odor. The drug delivery component may consist of biocompatible-Zbiodegradable polymers in the form of pellets, microspheres, or gels, or in solvents or solutions (hereafter, drug complex). The invention embodies neonatal/infantile period treatment with a drug complex consisting of a hormone- based compound configured to inhibit development and function of hypothalamic Kisspeptin neurons, pituitary release of luteinizing hormone and postnatal development of the testis through the use of sustained but temporary release of the compounds into the body of an animal once the drug-carrier has been injected or implanted therein.

Description

NON-SURGICAL PREVENTION OF UNPLEASANT ODOR IN MEATS AND AGGRESSIVE OR SEXUAL BEHAVIOR IN MALE RUMINANTS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority and the benefit of U.S. Application Ser. No. 17/937,740, filed October 3, 2022 and U.S. Provisional Appl. Ser. Nos. 63/365,389 and 63/378,227, filed May 26, 2022 and October 3, 2022, respectively, which are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Surgical castration is a medical procedure that is routinely performed on nearly all male meat production animals as a method of decrease male’s gonadal sex hormone. Generally, male ruminants with intact gonads cause negative issues with handling, management, carcass yield and meat quality (1, 2, 3, 4). Working with intact male ruminants can be dangerous to both the handler and the animal; therefore, it is preferable to castrate the males at an early age (3). On the farm, intact males have to be isolated from females to prevent unintentional breeding. The males are also isolated from other males due to their aggressive and/or sexual behavior, which increases the complexity and cost of animal management. The cause of these unwanted animal behaviors is due to the presence of androgen hormones (1, 5, 6, 7); thus, the primary purpose of castration in male livestock is to remove the source of androgen production, the testes.

[0003] Aggressive behavior. To prevent breeding and to reduce aggressive behavior in the ruminant species, castration of the males is performed as routine animal husbandry (5). Recently, immunocastration has been introduced, as it will reduce sexual behavior and mounting frequencies, similar to castration (4, 8, 9, 10). If the bulls have had sexual experience, castration does not decrease the mounting behavior (11), but in general, castration decreases this behavior, as evidenced by the fact that Testosterone (T) treatment will restore it (12).

[0004] Male-specific odor and meat quality. It is well-established that androgen production in male pigs results in a pungent, urine-like odor in the cooked meat, which is called ‘boar taint’ (13, 14). Male-specific odors are also associated with other species, including ruminants. For example, musk odor from the musk glands especially in musk deer is well-known for its role as a pheromone (15, 16, 17). Other volatile compounds are also found in the fat and meat of ruminants and, as with boar taint, musk odors are controlled by androgen production and contribute to the reasons established for routine castration of male livestock (3, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27).

[0005] There are three current methods of castration in male ruminants: physical, chemical, and immune castration. Physical methods include surgical removal of the testicles, application of a constricting elastic band (rubber ring) at the base of the scrotum (28), and use of external clamping with a specialized device such as the Burdizzo clamp (29). Chemical castration includes the injection of sclerosing or toxic agents (e.g. 88% lactic acid) into the testicular parenchyma to cause irreparable damage and loss of function (30). Chemical castration requires additional procedural time and technical skill, and almost twice the healing time compared with surgical castration (30). The immunocastration method requires the injection of an immunocontraceptive formulation (1, 31) that will induce antibody production against gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), which results in decreased productions of endogenous pituitary and gonadal hormones (32).

[0006] The immunocontraceptive method, while effective, presents some notable challenges and management problems. For instance, in bulls the contraceptive formula must be injected into males older than 2-months and requires repeated injections to ensure continued infertility. Thus, just to inject the immunocontraceptives, workers must handle large animals weighing several hundreds of kilograms. Similarly, in male pigs, the first injection is typically required when the animals are 9 to 13-weeks-old, weighing between 30-50 kg. This exposes farm workers to undue safety risks associated with handling aggressive, large animals, while handling a sharp instrument. Accidental exposure of workers to the immunocontraceptive is a serious safety risk. Another drawback to the use of immunocastration is that the treated animals cannot be sold in the market immediately after the last injection due to concerns about residual drugs being present in the meat.

SUMMARY

[0007] One embodiment provides a method for inhibiting testicular development in ruminants, which prevents the pubertal rise in blood and tissue androgens, and in particular testosterone, the major hormone responsible for aggressive/ sexual behavior and male-specific odor, comprising of injecting in said ruminants an estrogen or a combination of an estrogen and an androgen during the neonatal/infantile period of growth of said male ruminants. In one embodiment, the injection is either subcutaneous or intra-muscular.

[0008] One embodiment further comprises an implant wherein the implant comprises said estrogen or a combination of an estrogen and androgen, wherein the estrogen and androgen target hypothalamus-pituitary axis and testis development. [0009] In one embodiment, the implant comprises a material or enclosure that maintains elevated circulating levels of compounds over the neonatal/infantile period of growth. In one embodiment, the material or enclosure that provides sustained release consists with biodegradable polymers or biocompatible materials. In one embodiment, the material or enclosure that provides sustained release is a form of capsule, pellet, microsphere, nanoparticle, gel, or solution.

[0010] In another embodiment, the injected synthetic estrogen and androgen are not present in the blood or tissues when the animals are slaughtered.

[0011] In one embodiment, the estrogen comprises natural or synthetic estrogenic compounds including estradiol esters such as estradiol benzoate (EB), estradiol valerate, estradiol cypionate, etc. In one embodiment, the dose range of 1 - 30 mg/kg body weight.

[0012] In another embodiment, the androgen comprises testosterone, testosterone esters, testosterone metabolites such as 5a-dihydrotestosterone or their esters, trenbolone or trenbolone esters, or equivalents that have potent androgen activity. In one embodiment, the dose range of 50 - 200 mg/kg bodyweight.

[0013] One embodiment provides that the injected amount of the estrogen and estrogen/ androgen combination is in a dose sufficient to inhibit the development of Kisspeptin neurons in the hypothalamus, LH production in the pituitary, proliferation of Sertoli and Leydig cells in the testis and production of androgens in the testis and accumulation of male-specific odor in the fat.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document. In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components.

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates exemplary serum LH concentration data from two male subject groups (Intact and EB+TBA) at 3 weeks of age in pigs.

[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates exemplary testis weight and serum testosterone level data from two male subject groups (Intact and EB+TBA) at 26 weeks of age in pigs.

[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates exemplary testis size (left) at 3-5 months of age and serum testosterone level (right) at 4-5 months of age data from three subject groups in male goats. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The following detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments, which may also be referred to herein as “examples,” are described in enough detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. The example embodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be used, or structural, and logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the disclosed subject matter will be described in conjunction with the enumerated claims, it will be understood that the exemplified subject matter is not intended to limit the claims to the disclosed subject matter. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0019] The present invention pertains generally to preventing development of the testis in ruminants, production and accumulation of the molecules that cause or contribute to malespecific odor, and androgen-induced aggressive and sexual behavior in males with age. Specifically, the invention relates to the inhibition of functional development of the testis by treatment with estrogen or a combined use of estrogen and androgen in neonatal/infantile males using extended drug delivery methods, for the purpose of inhibiting the production of testosterone (T), which causes a male-specific behavior and odor.

Definitions

[0020] In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used to include one or more than one and the term; “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive “or” unless otherwise indicated. In addition, the phraseology or terminology employed herein and not otherwise defined is for the purpose of description only and not of limitation. Furthermore, all publications, patents, and patent documents referred to in this document are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety, as though individually incorporated by reference. In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and those documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in the incorporated reference should be considered supplementary to that of this document; for irreconcilable inconsistencies, the usage in this document controls.

[0021] Reference in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described can include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0022] Values expressed in a range format should be interpreted in a flexible manner to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. For example, a concentration range of “about 0.1% to about 5%” should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited concentration of about 0.1 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, but also the individual concentrations (e.g., 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%) and the sub-ranges (e.g., 0.1% to 0.5%, 1.1% to 2.2%, and 3.3% to 4.4%) within the indicated range.

[0023] The term “about” as used herein can allow for a degree of variability in a value or range-for example, within 10%, within 5%, within 1%, within 0.5%, within 0.1%, within 0.05%, within 0.01%, within 0.005%, or within 0.001% of a stated value or of a stated limit of a range-and includes the exact stated value or range.

[0024] As used herein, an “effective amount” means an amount sufficient to inhibit the production of male-specific odor causing molecules. An effective amount can be administered in one or more administration. In some embodiments, an effective amount of estrogen and androgen can be achieved in conjunction with another drug, compound, or pharmaceutical composition. In other embodiments, an effective amount of estrogen and androgen may be achieved in isolation from the use of another drug, compound, or pharmaceutical composition. [0025] The terms “carrier,” “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier,” or “physiologically acceptable carrier” as used herein refer to one or more formulation materials suitable for accomplishing or enhancing the delivery of estrogen and androgen as composition (i.e., pharmaceutical composition).

Compositions and Methods

[0026] There has been considerable effort to find a replacement for the physical castration procedure in ruminants, with animal welfare being one of the major concerns (4, 33). However, finding an alternative that could replace the procedure must take into consideration several potential organ targets that could disrupt the production of androgens, including the hypothalamus, pituitary and testis.

[0027] Inhibition Target 1 : Hypothalamus and Pituitary. The invention is centered around a pharmaceutical intervention that inhibits development of the testes. In mammals, reproduction is regulated by hormones that are released from the Hypothalamus region of the brain, the nearby Pituitary gland, and the Gonads that must be exposed to pituitary hormones via blood circulation. This physiological system is known as the HPG axis. In this system, a hormone produced in one organ of the HPG axis either stimulates or inhibits the secretion of a hormone in another organ through regulatory loops, respectively known as positive and negative feedback loop. Hypothalamic neurons produce two key reproductive hormones, Kisspeptin (KISSI) and GnRH (Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone) (34, 35, 36, 37). In a unidirectional regulation, KISSI is secreted, binds to the KISSI receptor (GPR54) in the cell membrane of the GnRH neurons, triggering the release of GnRH. Notably, if either the Kissi or Gpr54 gene is removed, it results in hypogonadism and sterility (38, 39). GnRH travels to the pituitary via a local portal vein and triggers the secretion of LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone). Collectively, these peptide hormones stimulate the gonads to grow and produce sex steroids, primarily T, and to promote the production and release of sperm. This essential role of the Kisspeptin neurons in reproduction is conserved in ruminants (40, 41, 42, 43, 44).

[0028] In the hypothalamus, the target is the neuropeptide KISSI produced by Kisspeptin neurons. This peptide initiates puberty by directly stimulating the release of GnRH (45, 46, 47) and thereby releasing LH from the pituitary to stimulate Leydig cells in the testis. Therefore, KISSI plays a crucial role in the development of testes and the facilitation of appropriate timing of puberty. In support, mutation of either the Kissi gene, which encodes KISSI, or its receptor, GPR54 resulted in sterility in both male and female mice (39, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52). In the male, the loss of Kissi expression results in significantly lower plasma levels of LH and T, which produces male infertility (53, 54).

[0029] Estrogen receptor- 1 (ESRI) and androgen receptor (AR) are both expressed in various cells of the hypothalamus (55, 56, 57) and thus both estrogen and androgens have potential influence over the development of the hypothalamus/pituitary pathway. Temporary treatment with exogenous estrogen targets the hypothalamus Kisspeptin neurons, permanently reducing KISSI expression and subsequently GnRH and LH secretions, eventually lowering testicular T production and serum T levels (58). However, estrogen treatment alone in the neonatal bull was not sufficient to achieve long-term reduction in LH and T (59), possibly due to the use of a low dose or insufficient length of time exposure. Neonatal treatment with a synthetic androgen, such as Trenbolone or TBA or DHT, targets the pituitary directly and thus also helps to inhibit LH release by making the pituitary insensitive to GnRH stimulation (60, 61, 62). Therefore, for this innovation, the neonatal and infantile period of treatment includes a higher dose of estrogen, as well as an androgen as an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), because together they will inhibit hypothalamus Kisspeptin neuron development and the pituitary gonadotrophic cell’s release of LH, respectively.

[0030] In ruminants, there is also evidence that androgens, in addition to estrogens, are capable of having a strong inhibition of kisspeptin neurons, because in the castrate male the number of kisspeptin-immunolocalized cells is increased substantially (63). Also, androgens appear to have their major effects on the pituitary, where they inhibit LH release (64).

[0031] Inhibition Target 2: Testis. The core organs of the male reproductive system are the testes, which undergo dramatic developmental and structural changes from birth to puberty. Testicular development produces four major cell types: 1) germ cells surrounded and nurtured by 2) Sertoli cells, which with germ cells compose the seminiferous tubules; 3) thin, peritubular myoid cells that surround a basement membrane of the seminiferous tubule; and 4) Leydig cells, located between the tubules and blood vessels (65, 66, 67).

[0032] In the testis, Leydig cells are the major androgen producing cells. They serve as the source of T synthesis (68), with distinctive increases in T from birth to puberty (8, 69, 70). However, normal Sertoli cell development is also required for proper proliferation and differentiation of Leydig cells (71, 72, 73, 74, 75). Ruminant testes do not express the estrogen receptor (76, 77, 78), in contrast to the non-ruminant species, in which Leydig cells, and sometimes Sertoli cells (79), express ESRI and show estrogen responsiveness. However, Leydig cells of the ruminant testis do express AR and thus would be responsive to treatment with a potent androgen during the neonatal/infantile period. During development, Leydig cells depend on a number of factors for their stimulation, the primary one being the gonadotropin LH (80); however, Leydig cell maturation from progenitor and immature cells can be stimulated by androgens through local autocrine regulation (81). Therefore, a potent, androgen will also target the testes, if given during the neonatal/infantile period (69). This direct effect of an androgen would shift the cells away from proliferation and toward differentiation, while in the pituitary the androgen will inhibit LH release, the primary hormone necessary for Leydig cell stimulation, the promotion of cell proliferation and subsequent synthesis of androgens. However, treatment would be required during the neonatal/infantile period of development because waiting until after the infantile age (such as after more than 180 days of age in bulls) does not appear to be permanent, as the testes weights following TBA treatment at this older age showed no significant difference from non-treated bulls (82). Testicular development prior to birth is independent of the HPG axis. However, starting at birth, hormones from the HPG axisplay a vital role in regulatory control of testicular growth (54). The postnatal surge in serum T depends on the KISSI -stimulated secretion of GnRH and the subsequent release of LH (83). LH stimulates fetal Leydig cells to produce T, which is vital for masculinization of the young male (84, 85). Thus, the most effective reduction of testis production of androgen hormones requires the inhibition of Leydig cell development.

[0033] In addition to Leydig cells, during this neonatal/infantile period, Sertoli cells also experience a major stimulation of activity. In rodents, FSH is the primary stimulus of Sertoli cell proliferation during the neonatal/infantile period, which is essential for normal testis size. In rodents and ruminant males, it is well-established that FSH is a major driver for Sertoli cell proliferation and LH is the key factor in Leydig cell development (61, 86, 87, 88, 89). Sertoli cells nurture germ cells throughout spermatogenesis (90), but each Sertoli cell can supports only a finite number of germ cells (91). Thus, it is the total number of Sertoli cells that determines the ultimate size of the testis (71). Furthermore, the number of Sertoli cells indirectly regulates the number of Leydig cells (71, 73, 92). As such, the regulation of Sertoli cell numbers in the developing testis is just as important as inhibiting Leydig cell function. [0034] Treatment residue. In the United States, it is important to ensure that any residual amount of the treatment hormones and the carrier in the treated animals would be below the level that is imposed or regulated by governing authorities such as the FDA and/or USDA. EB, a long-acting estrogen, when delivered at the right dose and over the optimum period during neonatal/infantile growth, will deliver permanent inhibition of the hypothalamus for reducing LH production. TBA is a synthetic androgen that has both direct effects on the testis and a more rapid inhibitory effect on pituitary release of LH. Thus, the combined treatment is capable of inhibiting all three components of the HPG axis and must be delivered neonatally through the neonatal/infantile period with extended, but temporary elevation of circulating levels of the compounds. This level of the compounds must be sufficient to inhibit Sertoli and Leydig cell proliferation and the onset of testicular maturation, while ensuring that the treatment compounds are depleted from the body at slaughter.

[0035] Currently, there are no non-surgical castration techniques available that have a high degree of certainty for both disrupting Kisspeptin neuron development or KISSI expression, decreasing LH production, as well as directly inhibiting the development of testicular cellular components. Immunocastration inhibits the GnRH stimulation of LH production but must be given closer to puberty and requires repeated vaccination for sustained effects (93, 94, 95, 96). The proposed invention provides a simple, easy-to-implement, pharmaceutical intervention that can replace currently used procedures of surgical castration in newborn ruminants. A single, neonatal/infantile period injection of the two compounds in a sustained- release carrier will irreversibly inhibit activation of the HPG axis, inhibit Sertoli cell proliferation, and disrupt Leydig cell development and steroidogenic function of the testis. This treatment strategy will prevent the accumulation of the molecules that cause malespecific odor and block the development of aggression in male ruminants.

[0036] The drug pellet, microsphere, gel, or solution (hereafter, drug complex) comprises biocompatible-/biodegradable polymers or solvents.

[0037] The drug complex comprises a hormone-based compound configured to inhibit the postnatal release of LH from the pituitary, development of hypothalamic Kisspeptin neurons and cellular components of the testis.

[0038] The drug complex allows for the sustained but temporary release of the steroids into a body of an animal once the drug-carrier has been injected or implanted therein.

[0039] Embodiments of the invention comprise insertion methods configured to allow injection of a drug complex through larger epidermal layers or muscle?

[0040] In some embodiments of the invention, the drug complex may comprise EB and TBA. In other embodiments, the drug complex may comprise other estrogen esters and other forms of androgens. In some embodiments, the drug complex is injected into the subject within the first week after birth when animals are receiving vaccines and other shots.

[0041] Embodiments of the invention may include farm ruminants such as cattle, sheep, goats, deer, antelope, camels, and other livestock; while other embodiments of the invention may further include subjects such as horses and other physiologically similar to said subjects. [0042] The invention involves the inhibition of testicular development and thereby the prevention of a rise in blood and tissue androgens (T) by treating neonatal/infantile males with a combination of a long-acting estrogen and an androgen in a delivery method that allows for sustained, but temporary elevation of the compounds during the neonatal/infantile period of growth. The combined steroids, estrogen and androgen, permit the targeting of both the hypothalamus/pituitary region, as well as the testis directly (both Sertoli and Leydig cells).

Concentration/ Amount of Estrogen and/or Androgen

[0043] Male-specific odor and aggression inhibiting compositions comprise of estrogen and androgen. An effective amount of estrogen and androgen to induce the required inhibition of testis development and androgen production can depend, for example, the route of administration, the age of the animal, and its size (body weight). Accordingly, the skilled artisan may titer the dosage and modify the route of administration of estrogen and androgen to obtain the optimal effect for a particular animal. [0044] A typical dosage of estrogen (EB as an example) may range from about 1 mg/kg to up to about 30 mg/kg or more. In other embodiments, the dosage of EB may range from 1 mg/kg up to about 30 mg/kg; or 5 mg/kg up to about 30 mg/kg; or 10 mg/kg up to about 30 mg/kg; or 20 mg/kg up to about 30 mg/kg.

[0045] A typical dosage of androgen (TBA, as an example) may range from about 50 mg/kg to up to about 200 mg/kg or more. In other embodiments, the dosage of androgen may range from 50 mg/kg up to about 200 mg/kg; or 70 mg/kg up to about 200 mg/kg; or 100 mg/kg up to about 200 mg/kg.

Timing of Administration

[0046] Compositions comprising estrogen and androgen to reduce male-specific odor and/or aggression are administered prior to puberty (prior to reaching sexual maturity/capable of reproduction). The compositions can be administered neonatally through the infantile period of growth (69). Administration of estrogen and androgen effectively inhibits/blocks maturation of sex organs/gonads in males.

Route of Administration

[0047] The route of administration of the composition provided herein is in accordance with known methods, e.g., injection (intraperitoneal, intramuscular, subcutaneous) and nasal (inhalation). In one embodiment, estrogen and androgen is administered for inhibition of male-specific odor and/or aggression of an animal in a single, one-time dose. In other embodiments, multiple administrations of estrogen and androgen can be carried out to inhibit testis development, male-specific odor and/or aggression.

Compositions

[0048] In one embodiment, estrogen and androgen compositions for injectable administration can be in the form of oleaginous suspensions, including oil, such as vegetable oil (e.g., com oil), cottonseed oil, peanut oil, and/or sesame oil. Other carriers or fillers can be used instead of, or in addition to, oil. Carriers/fillers can include lactose, sucrose, starch powder, cellulose esters of alkanoic acids, cellulose alkyl esters, talc, stearic acid, magnesium stearate, magnesium oxide, sodium and calcium salts of phosphoric and sulfuric acids, gelatin, acacia gum, sodium alginate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and/or polyvinyl alcohol. These suspensions can be formulated according to methods available to the art for dispersing and suspending ingredients.

[0049] In another embodiment, the composition described above can be encapsulated for administration. In one embodiment, a capsule can be formed from silicone tubing with plugs at each end to contain a mixture of, for example, estrogen, androgen and oil. The capsules can be placed, such as by injection (further described below), in the body of the subject. The estrogen and androgen compositions described herein can be formulated for immediate release or in a time release formulation (e.g., slow release). For example, estrogen and androgen can be prepared with carriers that protect estrogen and androgen against rapid release, such as a controlled release formulation.

[0050] Many methods for the preparation of controlled/slow-release formulations are known to those skilled in the art. For example, techniques for formulating a variety of sustained- or controlled-delivery means, such as liposome carriers, polymers (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetate, polyanhydrides, silicone, polyglycolic acid, collagen, polyorthoesters, polylactic acid and polylactic, polyglycolic copolymers (PLG), microparticles, nanoparticles (such as nanospheres, including biodegradable nanospheres or porous beads, and depot injections), a water insoluble polymer and a polyethylene glycol as a water-soluble pore forming agent, or with carrier/matrix such as cholesterol, magnesium stearate, ethyl cellulose N200 carrier/matrix are also known to those skilled in the art. For example, see PCT/US93/00829, which describes controlled release of porous polymeric microparticles for the delivery of pharmaceutical compositions. Additional examples of sustained-release preparations include semipermeable polymer matrices in the form of shaped articles, e.g., films or microcapsules. Sustained release matrices may include polyesters, hydrogels, polylactides (U.S. Pat. No. 3,773,919, EP 58,481), copolymers of L-glutamic acid and gamma ethyl -L-glutamate (97), poly (2-hydroxyethyl-methacrylate) (98, 99), ethylene vinyl acetate or poly-D(-)-3- hydroxybutyric acid (EP 133,988). Sustained-release compositions also include liposomes, which can be prepared by any of several methods known in the art. See e.g., Eppstein et al., (100), 1985; EP 36,676; EP 88,046; EP 143,949.

[0051] Controlled-release, slow release, or sustained-release refer to the release of an active ingredient, such as estrogen and androgen, from a composition or dosage form in which the active ingredient is released over an extended period of time. In one embodiment, controlled- release results in dissolution over several hours to a few days or weeks. In another embodiment, APIs are released over a period of a few months, including about 1 to 4 months. In another embodiment, APIs are released over an infantile period of growth.

[0052] In another embodiment, the composition is formulated for inhalation; for example, EB and TBA can be formulated as a dry powder. Inhalation solutions may also be formulated with a propellant for aerosol delivery. In another embodiment, inhalation solutions may be nebulized. [0053] One embodiment provides kits for producing a single-dose administration unit. The kits may contain single and multi-chambered pre-filled syringes containing estrogen and androgen and instructions for use (inhibiting testis development and reducing male-specific odor).

Examples

[0054] Example 1 -Effects of injecting EB+TBA in neonatal piglets via carrier on the serum LH level.

[0055] Treatment of animals. EB+TBA injectable implant contains EB 7 mg and TBA 50 mg EB (n=4) was implanted to neonatal male piglets (Large White X Landrace) on day 1 after birth by subcutaneous injection on the backside of the neck. The injection site of the implants was then sealed using surgical sealant. All piglets were raised in the same pen and blood was collected on week 3 to measure the concentrations of LH.

[0056] LH measurement. Serum LH levels were measured by Pig LH ELISA (LS-F34361, LSBio Inc., WA). Data are presented using descriptive analysis as well as mean±SD.

[0057] Results. Control intact animals (n=3) had 23.7+15.86 ng/mL serum LH concentration at 3 weeks of age (Fig 1). In contrast, animals treated with EB-alone had 97% (0.75+0.17 ng/mL) lower serum LH concentrations than control intact animals.

[0058] The function of the pituitary gonadotropic cells, especially synthesis and secretion of LH, is crucial for gonad development and steroidogenesis. This result shows that EB+TBA effectively inhibit the LH production in pigs.

[0059] Example 2 -Effects of injecting EB+TBA in neonatal piglets via carrier on the testis development and function in slaughter age.

[0060] Treatment of animals. EB+TBA injectable implant contains EB 14 mg and TBA 100 mg EB (n=4) was implanted to neonatal male piglets (Large White X Landrace) on day 1 after birth by subcutaneous injection on the backside of the neck. The injection site of the implants was then sealed using the surgical sealant. All piglets were raised in the same pen until 26 weeks of age, testes weight was measured at the end of the experiment. For the hormone measurement, blood was collected at the same time.

[0061] Testis weight and testosterone levels. Testes were collected from 26-weeks-old boars and their weight was measured. Data are presented using descriptive analysis as well as mean±SD of average testis weight in each individual. At the same time, blood was collected from each individual, and serum was separated by centrifugation. Serum testosterone level was measured by Testosterone ELISA kit (EIA1559, DRG International Inc.) and data are presented using descriptive analysis as well as mean±SD of ng/mL testosterone. [0062] Results. Control intact animals (n=3) showed 637.5±91.02 g testis weight and 11.53±5.31ng/mL of serum testosterone levels. Animals treated with EB+TBA had 63.9% lower testis weight (230.0±50.32g) and 49.1% lower serum testosterone levels (5.85±1.38 ng/mL) compared to those of Intact. This indicates that neonatal treatment of EB+TBA inhibits the testis development and steroidogenic activity of testicular cells until slaughtering age.

[0063] Example 3 -Effects of injecting EB+TBA in neonatal goats via carrier on the testis development and function in slaughter age (4-5-month-old).

[0064] Treatment of animals. EB+TBA injectable implant contains EB 14 mg and TBA 100 mg or EB 28 mg and TBA 200 mg was implanted to neonatal male goats on day 1-3 after birth by subcutaneous injection on the backside of the neck. The injection site of the implants was then sealed using the surgical sealant. Testes size was measured by Vanier calipers at 3-5 months of age and volume was calculated based on the formula width x depth x length (cm³). Serum testosterone levels were measured by Testosterone ELISA kits (EIA1559, DRG International Inc.) at 4-5 months of age. Data are presented as mean±SD of testis size and serum testosterone level in each individual.

[0065] Results. Control intact animals (n=3) showed 184.45+55.91 cm³ (width x depth x length) testis size. Animals treated with EB 14 mg + TBA 100 mg (n=5) and EB 28 mg + TBA 200 mg (n=4) had 60.2% (73.42+11.35 cm³) and 76.4% (43.46+25.08 cm³) smaller testis size compared to those of Intact, respectively. In the measurement of serum testosterone levels, Control intact animals (n=3) showed 0.59+0.52 ng/mL of serum testosterone levels. EB 14 mg + TBA 100 mg (n=3) and EB 28 mg + TBA 200 mg (n=3) had 79.7% (0.12+0.15 ng/mL) and 94.9% (0.03+0.00 ng/mL) lower testosterone levels compared to intact animals. This indicates that neonatal treatment of EB+TBA inhibits the testis development and steroidogenic activity of testicular cells.

[0066]

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[0067] The above description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof) or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0068] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

[0069] The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as “by one of ordinary skill in the art” upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in fewer than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0070] All publications, patents, and patent applications, Genbank sequences, websites and other published materials referred to throughout the disclosure herein are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application, Genbank sequences, websites and other published materials was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. In the event that the definition of a term incorporated by reference conflicts with a term defined herein, this specification shall control.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for inhibiting testicular development in ruminants, which prevents the pubertal rise in blood and tissue androgens, comprising administering to said ruminants an estrogen or a combination of an estrogen and an androgen within a few weeks or months after birth during the neonatal to infantile period.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the administration is by inj ection, such as subcutaneous or intra-muscular injection (e.g., a single injection), or by nasal inhalation.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, further comprising an implant wherein the implant comprises said estrogen and androgen.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the estrogen and androgen target hypothalamus-pituitary axis and testis development, respectively.

5. The method of claim any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the implant comprises a material or enclosure that provides sustained release of the compounds during the neonatal/infantile period.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the injected estrogen and androgen are not present in the blood or tissues when the animals are slaughtered.

7. The method of claim 5 or 6, wherein the material or enclosure that provides sustained release consists with biodegradable polymers or biocompatible materials such as silicone.

8. The method of any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the material or enclosure that provides sustained release is a form of capsule, pellets, microspheres, gel, or solution.

9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the estrogen comprises natural or synthetic estrogenic compounds including estradiol esters such as EB, estradiol valerate, estradiol cypionate, etc. with the dose range of 1 - 30 mg/kg body weight.

10. The method of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the androgen is selected from testosterone, testosterone esters, testosterone metabolites such as 5a-dihydrotestosterone or their esters, trenbolone or trenbolone esters, or equivalents that have potent androgen activity with the dose range of 50 - 200 mg/kg bodyweight.

11. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the injected amount of the estrogen/ androgen combination is in a dose sufficient to inhibit kisspeptin neurons in the hypothalamus, LH production in the pituitary, Sertoli cell proliferation in the testis and Leydig cell proliferation and production of androgens in the testis and odor-molecule accumulation in the fat and meat.