Equus Reproductive Services

FAQs

Fequently Asked Questions

Ovum Pick Up (OPU) is a technique used to collect oocytes (eggs) directly from a mare's ovaries. This minimally invasive procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance, with the mare sedated to ensure comfort. OPU is a critical step in advanced reproductive technologies, allowing for the collection of eggs that can be matured, fertilized, and developed into embryos outside the mare's body.

In Vitro Maturation (IVM) involves the maturation of collected oocytes in a controlled laboratory environment before fertilization. After OPU, the oocytes are cultured in special media that mimic the mare's ovarian environment, enabling them to mature to a stage suitable for fertilization. IVM is essential for techniques like ICSI, as it prepares the egg for successful sperm injection and subsequent development.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a form of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) where a single sperm is injected directly into an oocyte. This precise method overcomes many fertility challenges, as it requires only one viable sperm per egg. Post-ICSI, the fertilized egg is cultured in the lab until it develops into an embryo ready for transfer or cryopreservation. ICSI dramatically increases the chances of successful fertilization, especially in cases of male infertility.
Cryopreservation is the process of freezing embryos or eggs to preserve them for future use. This technique involves cooling the embryos or eggs to very low temperatures, effectively halting all biological activity and allowing them to be stored indefinitely. Embryo/egg cryopreservation is valuable for managing breeding programs, preserving genetics, and ensuring the availability of embryos or eggs for future reproductive opportunities.
Embryo Biopsy is a technique where a small sample of cells is removed from an embryo for genetic testing. This process allows for the detection of genetic disorders, confirmation of parentage, or determination of the embryo's sex before implantation. Embryo biopsy aids in making informed decisions about which embryos to transfer, enhancing the likelihood of healthy, genetically desired offspring.
Our upcoming Animal Cloning service will offer the opportunity to create genetically identical copies of valuable animals. This cutting-edge technique involves taking genetic material from the donor animal and inserting it into an enucleated egg, creating an embryo that is a clone of the donor. Animal cloning can be used for preserving elite genetics, resurrecting outstanding performance traits, and ensuring the legacy of exceptional animals. Stay tuned for more details as we finalize our cloning offerings.
Choosing the right reproductive service depends on your specific objectives, the reproductive health of your animals, and any challenges you've faced in the past. We recommend scheduling a consultation with our experts to discuss your breeding program, review the health and genetics of your animals, and determine the most appropriate services to meet your goals.
Success rates can vary widely based on several factors, including the age and health of the mare and stallion, the quality of the oocytes and sperm, and the specific technologies used. Our team is committed to using the latest advances in reproductive science to maximize success rates, and we'll provide you with the most accurate estimates based on our extensive experience and your specific circumstances.