By Bérengère Lacroix
Graphic: Bérengère Lacroix
During the WBFSH General Assembly in Cascais, Portugal, Bérengère Lacroix, head of the WBFSH Breeding Department, and director of the Selle Français studbook, gave a presentation on the use of assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs), based on the results of a comprehensive survey of breeders.
The evolution of breeding technologies, including OPU-ICSI (Ovum Pick-Up - Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), Embryo Transfer (ET), Artificial Insemination (AI), and futures biotechnologies, has brought both opportunities and challenges to the equine breeding industry. A recent survey of breeders highlighted several key insights into the impact of these techniques, particularly regarding their influence on genetics, ethics, and the economy of breeding.
Key Survey Findings
A total of 38 completed questionnaires were collected from among WBFSH members.
1. Impact on genetics, ethics, and economy: A large majority (79%) of respondents believe that assisted reproduction technologies (ARTs) like OPU-ICSI affect breeding in significant ways. Concerns include potential changes to genetic diversity, ethical considerations, and the economic ramifications of using advanced reproductive techniques. Only 2% believe there is no impact.
2. Regulation and authorization: While many ARTs, including OPU-ICSI and ET, are authorized, they remain minimally regulated by authorities or Stud Books. This regulatory gap could lead to inconsistent practices and uneven outcomes in the breeding industry.
3. Increased usage and future potential: Though techniques like OPU-ICSI and ET are not yet standard reproductive selection tools, there is a clear indication that their use could grow as breeders seek to improve genetic traits or meet market demands. The expansion of genetics in breeding and increased access to such technologies suggest a shift towards more widespread adoption... To read the complete article you need to be a subscriber
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