What is Embryo Transfer?

Embryo Transfer is the collection of fertilised embryos from one cow (flushing) with their subsequent transplantation into another recipient animal which acts as a surrogate mother for that pregnancy.

Donor cows are treated with superovulation drugs which induce a number of ova (eggs) to be shed from the ovaries at the subsequent oestrus. These ova are fertilised with semen from a proven selected  bull and the resulting embryos are allowed to develop in the uterus for seven days. The embryos are then flushed from the uterus by a simple, non surgical procedure seven days following fertilisation.

The embryos are located under a microscope and then either transferred to suitable recipients or frozen in liquid nitrogen for use at a later date.

Embryo Transfer allows the breeder to store genetics from top cows as a form of cryobanked insurance.

Cows can be flushed at two month intervals, the number of viable embryos recovered each time averaging about five, giving three to four pregnancies. Donor and Recipient animals should be empty, clean, cycling and gaining condition ( not fat) before being programmed. Maiden heifers ( 350kg +) make ideal recipients. Diet and season can influence results.

Glossary