We’re excited to introduce cutting edge reproductive technology to cattle breeders in the north of Scotland.
In collaboration with Paragon Advanced Breeding laboratory, we are delighted to offer embryo production through OPU/IVF and embryo transfer.
This is in addition to our synchronisation and artificial insemination service which has been up and running since 2023.
Why produce embryos?
Producing embryos allows you to maximise the genetic potential of your best cows.
By creating multiple offspring from a single cycle you can rapidly improve desirable traits, preserve valuable genetics and overcome reproductive challenges in high value animals.
As ovum pick up (OPU) requires collection straight from the ovary, cows who may struggle to conceive naturally due to uterine disease, may still be able to produce embryos through this method.
Stimulation
Our stimulation programmes for donor cows consist of low doses of follicle stimulating hormone to ensure the eggs are at the right level of maturity on the day of collection. This gives us the best chance of producing more embryos that will have the best opportunity at establishing a pregnancy when transferred.
OPU
This is the collection process from the donor cows. It is done by careful, ultrasound guided, needle aspiration of each follicle. The eggs are vacuumed into a heated container, sorted and graded prior to maturation and fertilisation. We now have two vets trained to perform OPU to a high standard, with assistance and guidance available from Paragon’s very experienced team.
Boarding
Live further afield? We have accommodation available at our collection site for donors so you can leave them with us for a period of time, to allow multiple collections.
Embryo production
Recovered eggs are put into a maturation media and shipped overnight to Paragon in a temperature controlled incubator. Once there they are fertilised and cultured for a week in their high end laboratory. Embryos are then frozen and delivered back to us for storage prior to transfer into recipients.
Benefits of OPU vs traditional flush
- May be able to collect from cows who are unable to be flushed traditionally
- Can use two or more bulls on a single collection, or conversely can use a single straw on pooled eggs from multiple donors
- Reduced semen costs as requires fewer straws
- Can collect from heifers from an earlier age
- Can collect during early pregnancy
- Can collect from cows every two weeks vs two or more months between flushes – which means more calves
Other services
Embryo transfer
Our advanced breeding team can transfer frozen embryos produced by ourselves, from other domestic sources or imported.
Embryo storage
We are able to store embryos for clients prior to implantation.
Semen storage
Semen storage, whether long term or delivery from Cogent, is available. Call our team on 07951820421 to discuss.
Recipient preparation
While we send programmes for synchronisation and heat detection of recipients, this is only part of the preparation required.
Careful management of these animals in the six weeks prior to transfer is critical, paying particular attention to nutrition, mineral supplementation and minimising stress.
Synchronisation
Organised at a time that suits you for calving, we synchronise the recipients to allow for accurate heat detection by yourself over a short period of time.
Once noted this information then helps decide embryo allocation on the day of transfer.
Synchronised artificial insemination
We are now able to offer an all in one package to synchronise and artificially inseminate your heifers.
We have used a few different programmes and can adjust based on your requirements and expectations. This can be done in as few as three handlings!
Meet the team
Andrew Littlejohn BVMS MRCVS
Jennifer Jones BVM&S MRCVS
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