Livestock Matters - Winter 2016/17

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X LVETS NEWS
WINTER 2016/17 ISSUE LIVESTOCK MATTERS 4
The exciting cutting edge technology of
embryo biopsy and genomic analysis as
described in the article will also soon be
available through the same network, where
biopsies from embryos are taken and sent
for genomic analysis. This will allow a rapid
increase in the speed of genetic progress
without any manipulation of the genome.
XLVets practices around the UK are also
offering another powerful breeding tool,
combining genomics with vet supported
breeding consultancy. The world’s leading
genomics test, CLARIFIDE® from Zoetis has
been licensed for the first time in the UK as
a veterinary-led genomics consultancy
package. Led by RAFT Solutions and
Synergy Farm Health, four XLVets practices
are now delivering genomics advice across
the UK, providing information on the
production, health, milk quality, fertility,
feed efficiency and longevity of the animal.
Through consultancy and mentoring, a
CLARIFIDE® vet will work with the farm team
to evaluate their current genetic base, set
farm specific breeding objectives and assess
the likely response that can expected from
an investment in genomic testing. This is
changing the way dairy producers make
management, selection and breeding
decisions on farm ).
Another Innovate UK funded project
delivered through RAFT Solutions, whose
parent practices are both members of XLVets,
was to develop a quick and powerful
semen analysis tool – this has now been
rolled out as SemenRate. This provides
objective analysis of bovine, equine and
porcine semen (fresh or frozen samples as
needed), which is a vital tool for
management of the whole breeding
package, addressing the quality of the
semen used on farm.
)
So in the ever reaching goals and drive
for efficiency, these innovative breeding
technologies are now accessible – for all
herds.
Please talk to your local XLVets practice for
more information.
Leading the way in innovative
breeding technologies to bring
the most to your herd.
As you'll read on pages 13 and 14 of this edition of Livestock Matters, one of the latest breeding
techniques for cattle is Ovum Pick Up (OPU) and In Vitro Production (IVP). This has been developed in
the UK through an Innovate UK funded collaboration led by Paragon Vet Group, involving several
other XLVets member practices, Semex, and academic partners at the Universities of Kent and
Nottingham. We have a nationwide network of 6 OPU teams and 12 transfer teams to deliver this
technology to a specified quality controlled standard within a newly formed company, Activf-ET.
).