As producers work to keep up with the fast-paced demands of modern breeding programs and maintain a competitive edge, improvements in reproductive technologies are making in vitro fertilisation (IVF) an increasingly popular choice.
For 3R Beef, a Tamworth-based Angus seedstock enterprise, partnering with Vytelle has transformed their breeding operations, enabling them to produce more embryos and maximise their genetic investments.
Flexibility through IVF
When 3R Beef launched under its current brand six years ago, it relied on conventional flushing methods for embryo transfer. However, after observing the success of IVF among their business partners and associates in the US, 3R transitioned entirely to IVF two years ago.
“We now do 100% IVF,” explained Geoff Birchnell of 3R Beef. “The process requires no prior treatments, allowing us to collect from cows straight out of the paddock, so to speak.”
With Vytelle ADVANCE™ IVF technology, 3R enjoys a more efficient, animal-friendly approach to genetic improvement. By removing the need for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) injections, Vytelle’s process allows for weekly oocyte collection without compromising the health of the donor animals.
Hormone-free IVF reduces stress on the animals, and also allows for the collection of embryos from pregnant cows or recently calved cattle.
“Vytelle gives us the flexibility to aspirate females as early as two weeks post-calving and up to 100–120 days in calf, which provides a much wider window without disrupting the calving period,” Geoff explained.
Effortless embryo production
The ability to produce large numbers of embryos with ease and convenience has been a game-changer for 3R Beef. Conception rates are on par with traditional methods, but the benefits of IVF – such as year-round collection and efficient genetic management – have significantly improved their breeding operations.
“It’s now easier for us to produce larger numbers of embryos, and the key factors are the ease, convenience, and the ability to collect from cows over an extended period throughout the year,” he said.
Because Vytelle ADVANCE is a non-stimulated process – without the need for hormone shots – there’s far less animal handling involved, which reduces time and input costs. This has enabled 3R Beef to provide a significantly improved service.
“Vytelle IVF has revolutionised the 3R Breeding program. We are running fewer donors, producing more embryos, over a longer collection period, and keeping the donors in the same production cycle. The impact on our breeding program has been immeasurable.”
Strategic recipient selection key to success
Recipient management is critical to the success of IVF programs, and 3R Beef are diligent in their selection to ensure they are maximising their return on investment.
“While it’s easy to produce a large number of IVF embryos, the key to maximising conception rates lies in the careful selection of embryo recipients. Success depends on being diligent with the recipients you choose,” explained Geoff.
Even with high-quality embryos, factors such as the recipient’s health, nutritional status and proper synchronisation with estrous cycles can directly impact pregnancy rates. A well-chosen recipient increases the chances of successful embryo implantation and development to ensure the best return on the genetic investment.
“IVF opens the door to making fewer, more strategic genetic investments, allowing you to maximise the return on those investments,” he stated.