Source: IE
Subject: Science and Technology
Context: Scientists at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly, have achieved a significant breakthrough by producing five healthy Sahiwal calves from a single donor cow using advanced OPU–IVF–ET technology.
About OPU–IVF–ET Technology:
What it is?
- OPU–IVF–ET stands for Ovum Pick-Up, In Vitro Fertilization, and Embryo Transfer. It is an advanced assisted reproductive technology (ART) for livestock. It involves recovering eggs directly from a donor’s ovaries, fertilizing them in a lab, and then implanting the resulting high-quality embryos into surrogate mothers.
Organization Involved: Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly.
Aim: The technology aims to accelerate genetic improvement of indigenous livestock.
How it Works?
- Ovum Pick-Up (OPU): Mature eggs (oocytes) are collected from a genetically superior donor cow using ultrasound-guided needles (non-stimulated conditions).
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): The collected eggs are fertilized with high-quality sperm from a proven bull in a strictly controlled laboratory environment.
- Embryo Culture: The fertilized eggs develop into blastocysts (early-stage embryos) over a few days.
- Embryo Transfer (ET): These test-tube embryos are then implanted into the uterus of surrogate cows (typically those with lower milk yields).
- Gestation: The surrogates carry the calves to term (approx. 9 months), resulting in offspring with the superior traits of the original donor.
Key Features:
- High Efficiency: IVRI achieved blastocyst production rates of over 47% in cattle, which is on par with global standards.
- Non-Stimulated Recovery: Scientists can recover eggs without heavy hormone stimulation, ensuring the long-term health of the donor cow.
- Cryopreservation: Embryos can be frozen and stored to be used or transported as needed, allowing for breeding on demand.
- Genetic Multiplication: It allows a single elite cow (e.g., one producing >12 liters/day) to spread its traits to dozens of offspring in a single year.
About Sahiwal Cow:
What it is?
- The Sahiwal is one of the most important indigenous (Zebu) dairy breeds of the Indian subcontinent. It is highly prized for its milk production and hardiness.
Breed & Habitat:
- Origin: Historically from the Montgomery region (now in Pakistan) and the Punjab region of India.
- Prevalence: Primarily found in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Key Characteristics:
- High Milk Yield: It is considered the best indigenous dairy breed, with some cows capable of producing significant lactation yields (up to 3,320 kg).
- Heat Tolerance: Due to its origin in arid regions, it is highly resistant to extreme heat and ticks, making it ideal for tropical climates.
- Physical Traits: Typically reddish-brown or pale red in color. They are characterized by a large hump, a lethargic gait (often called Lola due to their loose skin), and a prominent dewlap.
- Milk Quality: Sahiwal milk is rich in fat and is often associated with the A2 beta-casein protein, which is considered easier to digest and healthier by many consumers.
