0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 1-3 mm > 3-6 mm > 6 mm Blastocyst yield (%) Follicle size group Comparative blastocyst yield for different follicle sizes Grade A Grade B Average Utilizing state of the art reproductive technologies to produce and deliver appropriate cattle genotypes • Highly reproductive • Adapted to harsh environments • High milk production potential • Poorly adapted to low input systems Sexed semen Harvested Oocytes through OPU IVEP Embryos • Natural grazing conditions • Good recipient capabilities Results SIFET Calves From Boran cows, even small follicles produce high quality (grade A) blastocysts April 2010 The good news is … Availability & affordability of SIFET is limited And the not so good news is … Indigenous breeds are excellent oocytes donors and surrogates Partners: UoN, EMBRAPA Brazil, ADC, CAIS, Kakuzi ranch, Ol Pajeta ranch, Dagoretti Slaughter Houses Suitable dairy heifer genotypes for low input systems are in short supply Some indigenous cattle breeds are threatened and should be conserved By: Mutembei H, Muasa B, Muraya J, Okeyo AM Embryo Transfer SIFET Laboratory Boran cows as surrogates Embryos and oocytes available for conservation, breed improvement and diagnostic studies Sexed semen, In-vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer (SIFET) and Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) technologies offer opportunities for better utilization and conservation of indigenous cattle and can produce animals of strategic value Exotic bulls Indigenous cows