Multiple ovulation and embryo transfer in Indian buffalo (Bubalus buoalis )

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Animal science
• Veterinary medicine

Background:

• Superovulation is crucial for increasing reproductive efficiency in buffalo.
• Optimizing folltropin dosage and treatment timing is essential for maximizing embryo yield.
• The role of exogenous GnRH in buffalo superovulation requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the optimal dosage of folltropin for superovulation in buffalo.
• To evaluate the impact of estrus day on superovulation outcomes.
• To assess the efficacy of using exogenous GnRH in conjunction with folltropin treatment.

Main Methods:

• Eighty-three buffalo were synchronized using prostaglandin, with 73 showing a functional corpus luteum.
• Eight different folltropin treatment protocols were administered, varying in dosage (9-36 mg) and timing (Days 9-15 of the cycle).
• Some protocols included the administration of exogenous GnRH.

Main Results:

• Protocol VI (25.2 mg folltropin) resulted in the highest ovulation rate (5.3 ± 0.79), significantly higher than other protocols (P < 0.01).
• Protocol III yielded the maximum number of recovered embryos (3.7), while Protocol V produced the most transferable embryos (2.2).
• The use of GnRH and initiating superovulation on Days 13-15 of the estrus cycle did not show any advantageous effect on ovulation rate.

Conclusions:

• A dosage of 25.2 mg folltropin is recommended for achieving the highest ovulation rates in buffalo superovulation.
• Folltropin dosage significantly impacts ovulation and embryo recovery rates.
• Neither exogenous GnRH nor delayed treatment timing (Days 13-15) improved superovulation efficacy in this study.