TVA and ICSI

With advancements in ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) and TVA (Transvaginal Aspiration) technologies, equine breeding is no longer restricted to the traditional January through June season. These innovative procedures enable breeding to occur during the “off season,” allowing embryos to be created and utilized at any time. Aiming for a colt born precisely on January 1st? ICSI offers the best opportunity to achieve this goal.

ICSI enables the ability to determine the sex of the embryo before implantation, as well as providing the option of freezing and thawing the embryo so that the time of foaling can be more accurately predicted.

Why TVA instead of ET?

Equine Transvaginal Aspiration (TVA) is often preferred over Embryo Transfer (ET) for several reasons:

1. Higher Quality Embryos: TVA allows for the direct collection of oocytes (eggs) from the mare’s ovaries. These oocytes can then be fertilized in vitro, often resulting in higher quality embryos compared to those produced through conventional ET, which relies on the mare’s natural reproductive cycle.
2. Increased Efficiency: TVA can be performed more frequently than traditional ET, leading to the possibility of collecting multiple oocytes from the same mare within a shorter time frame. This increases the chances of producing viable embryos.
3. Genetic Material Utilization: TVA is particularly beneficial for mares with reproductive issues or those unable to carry a pregnancy to term. By collecting oocytes directly from these mares, their genetic material can still be used to produce offspring, which can then be implanted into a surrogate mare.
4. Sex Determination and Genetic Testing: TVA allows for pre-implantation genetic testing, including sex determination, which can be done before the embryo is implanted. This ensures greater control over the breeding outcomes.
5. Flexibility with Timing: Since TVA involves collecting and fertilizing oocytes in a controlled environment, the resulting embryos can be frozen and stored for future use. This provides flexibility in timing for implantation, unlike ET, which requires synchronization with the recipient mare’s cycle.

Disadvantages of TVA and ICSI

1. Technical Complexity: ICSI and TVA are highly specialized and technically demanding procedures that requires advanced laboratory equipment and skilled personnel. This can limit its availability.
2. Labor-Intensive: The process of ICSI is labor-intensive, requiring precise timing and coordination, which can be a significant drawback in terms of resource allocation and management.

Fortunately, Origins simplifies this intricate process for clients, mitigating the associated burdens and confusion. Allow Origins: Equine Genetic Partners to manage the complexities and efforts involved in producing your prized foal.