OPU-IVF & Embryo Transfer

OPU-IVF & Embryo Transfer

Objective:
The main objectives of embryo transfer (ET) in cattle are to rapidly multiply genetics from elite females, increase the number of offspring from high-value cows, improve overall herd genetics, and transport genetics efficiently. It achieves this by collecting multiple embryos from a superior donor cow and implanting them into recipient cows, essentially creating many calves from one cow in a short time.

Key Objectives

• Genetic Improvement: Disseminate superior genetics in form of higher milk production from elite cows to increase herd quality rapidly.
• Increased Offspring Production: Get many calves (5-10x more) from genetically superior females, reducing generation intervals.
• Male Production: Produce more high-quality bulls for artificial insemination (AI) programs.

Activities of our Union

• Started ET since Dec. 2022.
• For this we have established an OPU (Ovum Pick Up unit) at Jagudan.
• High genetic merit animals are selected as a donor cows and kept at Jagudan
• At here our vets collect ova (eggs) from ovaries of the donor cows/buffaloes.
• Fertilization of ova with high genetic merit bull semen at ET Lab (NDDB)
• Simultaneously field vets select recipient animals considering age & parity, body condition, reproductive history, animal health, physical traits etc. in Mehsana Milk Shed area.
• Bovine embryo transfer synchronization manipulates the cow's estrous cycle using hormones (like GnRH, PGF2α etc.) to bring donor and recipient cows into "heat" (estrus) and ovulation at the same time, crucial for successful implantation, with protocols often involving timed treatments over 15 days, ensuring recipients are at the correct stage (Day 7 of cycle) for the transferred embryo.
• After successful insemination of embryo, Pregnancy is checked after one or two months.
  
  

All activities are being recorded in Bharat Pashudhan online system.