The Future of Bovine Reproduction Science in the Face of Climate Change and Global Crises: with a specialist

Interview conducted by the journalist Rodrigo Ledo Barbosa.

Bovine reproduction is undergoing an unprecedented transformation, driven by advancements in In Vitro Embryo Production (IVP). In light of growing concerns about the challenges faced by global agribusiness, we invited veterinarian and researcher Mylena Vinhais, a leading expert in reproductive biotechnology research, to share her insights on the future of bovine reproduction. With a career dedicated to innovation, Mylena brings valuable insights into the most promising advancements in the sector, including the development of more resilient cattle, improvements in assisted reproduction techniques, genetic editing, and enhancements in embryonic health. Her expertise and commitment to research have made her one of the foremost specialists in the field, frequently invited to discuss the challenges and innovations of IVP.

The IVP Revolution: Efficiency and Advanced Genetics

IVP involves the production of embryos outside the maternal organism, using genetically superior cows’ oocytes, fertilizing them in the laboratory, and culturing the resulting embryos. This technology enables accelerated genetic evolution, optimizing herd quality and increasing production efficiency. Researchers are working tirelessly to improve each step of this process, addressing critical issues such as:

• Optimization of culture media: Developing ideal conditions for embryo growth, ensuring higher success rates.
• Selection of high-quality oocytes: Identifying oocytes with greater developmental potential to produce more viable embryos.
• Improvement of cryopreservation: Enhancing freezing and thawing techniques, ensuring that embryos maintain their genetic and reproductive viability.

To delve into the impact of IVP and the challenges faced, we spoke with Mylena about her vision for the future of reproductive biotechnology.

Question: IVP has seen significant expansion in livestock production. What do you consider to be the most promising advancements in this field?

Mylena: In recent years, IVP has experienced significant advancements, particularly in oocyte selection and maturation, with enhanced techniques that maximize the developmental potential of embryos. Additionally, improvements in culture conditions, such as the optimization of culture media, have contributed to a more favorable environment for embryonic growth, resulting in higher success rates. Another important progress has been the evolution of cryopreservation techniques, ensuring the viability of embryos after freezing and thawing, thus facilitating the distribution of quality genetics across different regions. These advancements are crucial not only for increasing the efficiency of the IVF process but also for accelerating genetic progress in herds, promoting the production of healthier, more productive cattle that are resilient to environmental and sanitary challenges.

Question: How can farmers benefit from these new technologies?

Mylena: Farmers can benefit from these new technologies in various ways. Firstly, they enable faster and more efficient genetic gains, allowing for the production of more productive and healthier herds. The improved selection of oocytes and advancements in culture and cryopreservation conditions result in a higher success rate in producing viable embryos, which leads to more high-quality calves. Furthermore, the ability to preserve and transport embryos facilitates the spread of superior genetics to different regions, expanding opportunities for genetic improvement in a more accessible manner. These advancements also enable herds to become more resilient to diseases and adverse environmental conditions, promoting greater sustainability and efficiency in production.

Also know:- Biotechnology in Cattle Reproduction

Question: What are the main challenges still faced in in vitro embryo production?

Mylena: IVP faces challenges on several fronts, such as the quality of oocytes and embryos, which depends on factors like reproductive health and the culture environment. Oxidative stress is also a problem, as it can damage reproductive cells and embryonic development, requiring the use of antioxidants. Furthermore, the formulation of ideal culture media and the challenges of cryopreservation, such as preserving cellular viability, remain significant obstacles.

Question: You are conducting research aimed at improving the effectiveness of IVP in cattle, right? Could you tell us more about your expectations regarding the impact of your results on bovine reproduction?

Mylena: Yes, our research focuses on optimizing IVP in cattle, with an emphasis on controlling oxidative stress during oocyte in vitro maturation. We are investigating the use of natural antioxidants, such as Moringa oleifera, to improve oocyte quality, aiming to maximize nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance mitochondrial health. We believe that by reducing oxidative stress during in vitro maturation, we can improve the conditions for the successful performance of subsequent in vitro fertilization and embryonic development stages, which are often compromised by this stress. With the expected results, we hope to identify a more natural, effective, and cost-efficient approach that can reduce costs and enhance the efficiency of in vitro embryo production procedures.

The Global Impact of Bovine Reproduction

Bovine reproduction plays a fundamental role in global food security and sustainability. Genetic improvement not only increases meat and milk production but also enhances the efficiency of natural resource use, reducing the environmental impact of livestock farming. The adoption of technologies such as IVP, led by scientists like Mylena Vinhais, represents a crucial step in ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of cattle production in the global landscape.

Bovine reproduction science, in the face of climate change and global crises, has a challenging path ahead, but technological innovations, genetic improvement advancements, and the use of biotechnologies offer great prospects. The key to success will be the rapid and effective adaptation to new environmental realities, aiming not only to improve reproductive efficiency but also to make production more sustainable and resilient to global challenges.

With the continuous advancement of research and the refinement of techniques, IVP is consolidating as one of the main tools for the future of livestock farming, ensuring more productive herds adapted to the challenges of the agribusiness sector.

May 2023