OPU-ICSI is an innovative reproduction technique that offers more advantages than current methods of covering or embryo transfer. Thanks to this procedure, the mare or the stud owner can schedule the foal’s birth according to competition or training calendars.
What is OPU or follicular aspiration?
Follicular aspiration, commonly known as OPU (Ovum Pick Up), allows for the direct extraction of oocytes (eggs) from the ovaries of a mare via the transvaginal route, using a guide and an ultrasound scanner. The oocytes obtained through this process mature in the laboratory for approximately 30 hours. Afterwards, in the laboratory, a single sperm is injected into each mature oocyte using a specialised needle and a microscope. This process is called intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or ICSI.
The fertilised oocytes undergo an embryo culture process that mimics the uterine environment. After 7–10 days, it can be determined whether the fertilised oocytes have developed into embryos. The resulting embryos can either be transferred directly to a synchronised recipient mare or vitrified (frozen) for later transfer, commercialisation, export, or for the genetic preservation of the donor mare.
Thanks to the Follicular Aspiration Technique (OPU) and subsequent fertilisation in the laboratory (ICSI), you can obtain more embryos than with traditional extraction techniques.
When is OPU-ICSI recommended?
Mares can undergo OPU every 20–25 days throughout the year. This is a significant advantage, as it allows a substantial increase in donor embryo production, with an average of 2 embryos per OPU.
The OPU-ICSI technique is recommended for mares with uterine problems (endometritis, tears, perforations, prolapses…), mares with reproductive tract conformation issues (inadequate vaginal structures, fistulas or lesions of any degree), mares with hormonal imbalances, or fertile mares that are in competition and need to continue their sporting career. For stallions, this technique is ideal when semen quality is low, availability is limited, or when dealing with highly valuable straws. In essence, OPU-ICSI is one of the best options to preserve a stallion’s legacy without interrupting his career.
Ovohorse has qualified staff and research laboratories equipped with the latest technologies to successfully carry out reproduction techniques and cell line preservation for animal cloning. Our facilities are located in Marbella, where the entire process can be carried out, ensuring that the mare can recover and rest.
If you are a veterinarian and a member of AVEE (Association of Equine Specialist Veterinarians), we invite you to join us this Thursday, 9 November 2023, at 8:30 p.m., for a webinar featuring our CEO, Enrique Criado, who will be giving a very engaging presentation.