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In recent years, technological advances have opened new doors in equine reproduction. At Hof ter Leeuwe, we are keeping pace by utilizing innovative techniques such as OPU and ICSI. But what exactly do these terms mean? How do these treatments work? And why should you opt for this cutting-edge approach instead of traditional methods? In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know.
Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) are two closely related procedures that significantly enhance equine reproduction. OPU is a technique in which oocytes are collected from the mare’s ovaries using ultrasound guidance. ICSI occurs later in the reproductive process, where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. These advanced methods greatly increase the chances of fertilization and the development of healthy embryos.
OPU/ICSI treatment is possible when a mare has a sufficient number of follicles in her ovaries. Ideally, we aim for more than 15 follicles, each measuring between 0.6 and 2.5 cm, to maximize the chances of success. The eggs are collected through a minimally invasive procedure (OPU). These eggs are then sent to the Avantea laboratory in Italy, where they are matured and fertilized via ICSI. The embryos develop for several days before being frozen for future use. You can find more detailed information about this treatment here.
Traditional breeding methods have their limitations, while OPU/ICSI in horses offers more control and precision. Natural breeding and artificial insemination depend heavily on the timing of the mare’s cycle and the quality of both the sperm and eggs. With OPU/ICSI, we can use semen from stallions with low fertility, and it also allows breeding from mares with uterine problems or donor mares that are still active in sport and unable to carry a foal. Additionally, OPU/ICSI can produce higher pregnancy rates in older mares compared to artificial insemination or embryo transfer. This technique can even go a step further, enabling the breeding of foals from recently deceased mares or stallions.
On average, we collect about 14 oocytes per mare in one OPU session, which usually results in 2 to 3 embryos produced via ICSI. These embryos have a 75% success rate, with an embryonic resorption rate of approximately 10 to 15% between 14 and 45 days of gestation. In other words, on average, one OPU session yields one live foal. By comparison, conventional embryo transfers typically require three cycles of the donor mare to produce a single live foal.
Although OPU/ICSI is more expensive than traditional breeding methods, the investment is justified by the higher success rates and the ability to maximize genetic potential. At Hof ter Leeuwe, our prices for OPU/ICSI treatments are transparent and competitive. Full details on our pricing can be found in our price list.
Would you like to start OPU/ICSI treatment at our reproduction center in Zoutleeuw? Please contact us for more information.