International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 305-314 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 309 5 Case Study: Application of Embryo Transfer Technology in Improving Genetic Traits 5.1 Background and objectives of the case study The primary objective of this case study is to explore the application of embryo transfer technology in water buffaloes to enhance genetic traits, particularly for increased milk and meat production. The Philippine Carabao Center has been at the forefront of this initiative, aiming to produce genetically superior water buffaloes through advanced reproductive biotechnologies. This involves the use of in vitro embryo production and transfer techniques to improve the genetic pool of water buffaloes in the Philippines (Duran et al., 2017). 5.2 Methods employed in the field The methods employed include the collection of ovaries from slaughtered river buffaloes, followed by in vitro maturation and fertilization of oocytes. The embryos are then cryopreserved using vitrification and transported for non-surgical transfer into recipient buffaloes. The study also explored the use of swamp buffaloes as surrogate mothers and the potential for twinning by transferring embryos in pairs (Duran et al., 2017). Additionally, ovum pick-up (OPU) combined with in vitro embryo production (IVEP) has been utilized to exploit the genetics of high-yield buffaloes, addressing challenges such as low in vivo embryo recovery (Baruselli et al., 2018; Baruselli et al., 2020). 5.3 Results and outcomes The results from the studies conducted demonstrated varying success rates. In one study, a 16.36% pregnancy rate and a 10.91% calving rate were achieved with river buffalo recipients. When swamp buffaloes were used as surrogates, a 12.5% pregnancy rate and a 10% calving rate were observed. The study on twinning showed a 23.1% calving rate with a 3.8% twinning rate when embryos were transferred in pairs (Duran et al., 2017). These outcomes highlight the potential of embryo transfer technology in improving genetic traits in water buffaloes, although efficiency varies based on the methods and conditions applied. 5.4 Lessons learned and recommendations The case study underscores the importance of optimizing embryo transfer techniques to improve genetic traits in water buffaloes. Key lessons include the need for precise synchronization of follicular development and ovulation, as well as the importance of selecting appropriate surrogate mothers to enhance pregnancy and calving rates (Baruselli et al., 2018; Baruselli et al., 2020). It is recommended to further refine in vitro embryo production techniques and explore the use of genomic-assisted selection to accelerate genetic gains. Additionally, addressing factors such as environmental conditions, donor selection, and the use of advanced technologies like sex-sorted sperm cells could further improve the efficiency and outcomes of embryo transfer programs in water buffaloes (Gaddis et al., 2017; Currin et al., 2021). 6 Factors Influencing Adoption of Reproductive Technologies 6.1 Socio-economic considerations The adoption of reproductive technologies in water buffalo is significantly influenced by socio-economic factors. Buffaloes are crucial for the economic sustenance of many farmers, particularly in developing countries, due to their contributions to milk, meat, and draught power (Bm, 2019; Nanda et al., 2019). However, the economic impact of reproductive failures can be substantial, affecting the profitability of buffalo farming systems. For instance, longer calving intervals negatively impact profitability, emphasizing the need for efficient reproductive management (Nava-Trujillo et al., 2020). The cost of implementing advanced reproductive technologies can be prohibitive for smallholder farmers, who often lack the financial resources to invest in such innovations. Therefore, socio-economic constraints play a critical role in the decision-making process regarding the adoption of these technologies. 6.2 Infrastructure and technical expertise requirements The successful implementation of reproductive technologies in buffaloes requires adequate infrastructure and technical expertise. Many buffaloes are managed in areas with restricted access, which can limit the application of procedures like ovum pick-up and in vitro embryo production (Konrad et al., 2017). The availability of skilled
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