The advantages of OPU in equine reproduction

Equine reproduction: a major advancement

Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have significantly enhanced equine breeding over the years, evolving from artificial insemination to more advanced techniques such as embryo transfer.

Today, OPU stands out as one of the most promising innovations, offering breeders unprecedented opportunities to optimize reproductive outcomes.

What is OPU?

OPU is a minimally invasive technique that allows the collection of oocytes from a mare’s ovaries without the need for hormonal stimulation.

Unlike traditional methods that rely on the mare’s natural cycle, OPU enables year-round oocyte retrieval, maximizing reproductive efficiency.

The collected oocytes are then matured in vitro and can be fertilized using various laboratory techniques to produce embryos.

Key advantages of OPU

• Preserving mare fertility: OPU eliminates the need for uterine flushing, reducing the risk of endometritis that could compromise future pregnancies.
• No interruption of athletic performance: Mares can undergo OPU without pausing their training or competition careers, allowing them to contribute to breeding programs while remaining active in sport.
• Increased efficiency: Each OPU session yields a higher number of viable oocytes, leading to more embryos compared to traditional embryo flushing techniques.
• Genetic advancement: OPU allows younger mares to be included in breeding programs, shortening the generational interval and accelerating genetic progress.
• Optimized use of semen: OPU enables fertilization using minimal quantities of semen, making it particularly valuable for stallions with limited or compromised fertility.
• Embryo preservation & flexibility: The embryos produced can be frozen and transferred at the optimal time, eliminating the need for strict synchronization between donor and recipient mares.
• Expanded accessibility: Oocytes can be collected from mares in remote locations and transported to specialized laboratories, broadening access to cutting-edge reproductive technologies.
• Economic & commercial benefits: The ability to produce multiple embryos from a single session enhances breeding efficiency and creates new income opportunities for breeders through embryo sales.

A revolution in equine breeding

OPU is not just a technological breakthrough—it represents a paradigm shift in equine breeding.

By embracing this technique, breeders can leverage its numerous benefits to enhance genetic quality, preserve valuable bloodlines, and ensure a sustainable future for equine reproduction.

As history has shown with artificial insemination and embryo transfer, initial skepticism is gradually replaced by widespread adoption as the advantages become undeniable.

OPU is set to follow the same trajectory, reshaping the future of equine breeding on a global scale.

Learn more – contact the experts at Avantea

By Rita Leo

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