Maximizing in Vitro Embryo Production in Cattle

Abstract

In vitro embryo production (IVEP) is used to develop high-quality genetics associated with intergenerational genetic gain. It is characterized by acquisition (in vivo or post-mortem) and maturation (MIV) of oocytes from donors, followed by fertilization (FIV) of matured oocytes and culture (IVC) of embryos, which are then sent to transferred or cryopreserved. Even with extensive knowledge on IVEP, some biochemical and hormonal regulations that involve embryonic development are still unknown, leading to a low overall efficiency of the biotechnological process. Although in vitro developed embryos have a lower quality than that produced in vivo, in terms of resistance to challenging events, IVEP presents itself as a potential biotechnology. In cattle breeding, reproductive biotechnologies are key to increase and improve the genetic improvement of the herd, associated with productive and reproductive efficiency. In this article, the steps and strategies of IVEP and its contribution to reproduction in the cattle sector are discussed.