Topic Background

 History of Embryo Transfer

1890s: Walter Heape, an English experimenter, successfully completed the first embryo transfer using rabbits

Heape's experiment resulted in further embryo transfer research with the use of Follicle Stimulating Hormone

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is used to stimulate and increase ovulation, increasing the likelihood of multiple pregnancies in livestock

 Progress Over Time

Embryo transfer has significantly modified traditional technology and reproduction biology in livestock. It allows farmers to multiply the offspring of their most valuable animals in a shorter amount of time. For example, female cows typically deliver one calf per year. But with the use of embryo transfer, not only could multiple cows be impregnated, but a single cow could produce more calves in a shorter period of time.

           








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Problem Areas

Although embryo transfer has proved to be an innovative breakthrough in livestock breeding, it does have downfalls.

  • The process can be rather pricy, costing up to $1,200, not including donor expenses or labor fees.
  • The success rate of a transfer resulting in pregnancy is not always guaranteed. Typically, there is around a 60-65% chance of success.
  • Farmers must also consider the health of the offspring after using embryo transfer. Even if the pregnancy is successful, the offspring may not be as healthy as naturally concieved offspring.

Scientists are still experimenting with embryo transfer using mice. In conducting these studies, scientists hope to increase the success rate of pregnancy and decrease the cost of the process.

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