20/11/2025
๐๐ฎ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฏ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐ฒ๐จ ๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐ฌ๐๐๐ซ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ง๐ข๐ฆ๐๐ฅ๐ฌ
Superovulation (SOV) is a reproductive biotechnology technique in which a female animal is hormonally stimulated to produce multiple ova (eggs) in a single estrous cycle. These eggs can then be fertilized and collected as embryos for transfer into other recipient females. This technology is widely used in cattle, sheep, goats, and horses to rapidly multiply the genetics of superior females.
๐ How It Works: Step-by-Step
1. Hormonal Stimulation
The donor female is treated with FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) or PMSG (Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin) to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple follicles.
2. Estrus Synchronization
Both the donor and recipient females are synchronized using prostaglandins or progestagens to align their estrous cycles.
3. Artificial Insemination
The donor is inseminated (often multiple times) during estrus to ensure fertilization.
4. Embryo Collection
Embryos are collected from the uterus 6โ8 days post-insemination using a flushing procedure.
5. Embryo Evaluation
Embryos are assessed under a microscope for quality and developmental stage.
6. Embryo Transfer
Viable embryos are transferred into synchronized recipient females, or they may be frozen for later use.
๐ฏ Why It Matters
Genetic Improvement: One elite female can produce 10โ15 calves per year instead of just one.
Disease Control: Embryo transfer helps avoid transmission of certain diseases.
Endangered Species: It plays a role in conservation breeding programs (IUCN 2023).
๐ Common Applications
Elite breeding in dairy and beef cattle
Genetic preservation of indigenous breeds
Supporting wildlife reproduction programs in zoos and conservation centers
