Animal Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 217-227 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/amb 217 Research Insight Open Access Optimizing Embryo Transfer Techniques in Feline Breeding Programs Xiaofang Lin Tropical Animal Medicine Research Center, Hainan Institute of Tropical Agricultural Resources, Sanya, 572000, Hainan, China Corresponding email: xiaofang.lin@hitar.org Animal Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol.14, No.3 doi: 10.5376/amb.2024.14.0023 Received: 27 Mar., 2024 Accepted: 15 May, 2024 Published: 30 May, 2024 Copyright © 2024 Lin, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Lin X.F., 2024, Optimizing embryo transfer techniques in feline breeding programs, Animal Molecular Breeding, 14(3): 217-227 (doi: 10.5376/amb.2024.14.0023) Abstract Embryo transfer technology has been developing since the early 20th century and has gradually been applied in various animal breeding programs. In felines, the development and application of this technology began relatively late and faces many challenges, including the unique reproductive physiology and hormonal cycles of cats. With the rise of the pet economy and the increasing demand for purebred cats, optimizing these technologies not only meets market demands but also aids in scientific research and the conservation of endangered species. This study analyzes various embryo transfer techniques and influencing factors, aiming to explore and resolve key technological and ethical issues in feline embryo transfer. Through technical optimization and policy guidance, this research strives to advance the scientific development and market application of feline breeding programs. Keywords Embryo transfer; Feline; Reproductive technology; Genetic diversity; Animal welfare 1 Introduction Feline breeding programs play a crucial role in the conservation and management of both domestic and wild cat populations. These programs aim to maintain genetic diversity, support population sustainability, and mitigate the risks associated with inbreeding and habitat loss. The domestic cat (Felis catus) often serves as a model for developing and refining reproductive technologies that can be applied to endangered wild felids (Pope, 2000; Thongphakdee et al., 2020). The success of these programs relies heavily on a comprehensive understanding of feline reproductive biology and the implementation of advanced reproductive technologies. Reproductive technologies, including artificial insemination (AI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and embryo transfer (ET), have become indispensable tools in feline breeding programs. These technologies not only enhance natural breeding efforts but also provide alternative methods to overcome challenges such as breeding incompatibility and suboptimal environmental conditions (Farstad, 2000). The development and application of these techniques have shown promising results in various wild cat species, contributing to the birth of viable offspring and the preservation of genetic material (Gómez et al., 2009). Despite the progress, there remain significant challenges in optimizing these technologies to achieve consistent and efficient outcomes (Mains and Voorhis, 2010). This study optimizes embryo transfer (ET) techniques in feline breeding programs by examining various technical aspects of the ET procedure, including the use of soft catheters, ultrasound guidance, and cervical mucus removal to improve pregnancy outcomes, addressing limitations and variability in ovarian stimulation, gamete quality, and embryo development, with the goal of enhancing ET efficiency and success rates in domestic and wild felines, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and genetic diversity of feline populations. 2 Background of Embryo Transfer in Felines 2.1 Historical development of embryo transfer techniques Embryo transfer (ET) in felines has evolved significantly over the past few decades, driven by the need to preserve endangered species and improve breeding programs. Initially, the focus was on developing reliable methods for oocyte recovery, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and embryo cryopreservation. The domestic cat (Felis catus) has played a pivotal role as a model for these techniques, which have subsequently been applied to various wild cat species (Thongphakdee et al., 2010). Early successes included the birth of domestic kittens from embryos
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