Development of cloning technology for the Australian Pig Industry. Cloning has the potential to be the most efficient of the reproductive technologies developed for increasing genetic improvement in livestock. Currently up to 5% of cloned embryos develop to term in the pig. This is higher than that reported for cattle and sheep. Moreover the use of this technology in the pig does not appear not to result in the same sorts of problems and losses seen around the time of birth in these species ....Development of cloning technology for the Australian Pig Industry. Cloning has the potential to be the most efficient of the reproductive technologies developed for increasing genetic improvement in livestock. Currently up to 5% of cloned embryos develop to term in the pig. This is higher than that reported for cattle and sheep. Moreover the use of this technology in the pig does not appear not to result in the same sorts of problems and losses seen around the time of birth in these species i.e. the majority of cloned pigs appear normal and are healthy at birth. However before cloning can be used commercially, current efficiencies need to be increased approx two fold for this to be economically viable. The aim of the present study is to improve the efficiency of our current cloning protocol and develop associated technologies such as embryo freezing to facilitate commercialisation. This will ensure that the Australian Pig Industry remains competitive at a pivotal time in its development.Read moreRead less
Enhancing fertility for the Thoroughbred and Standardbred industries. Enhancing fertility for the Thoroughbred and Standardbred industries. Responding to industry calls for improved methods of detecting and managing infertility in both stallions and mares, this project aims to provide a platform for competitive collaborations between universities, biotechnology companies and horse breeders: the end-users of technological developments in equine reproduction. The Thoroughbred and Standardbred bree ....Enhancing fertility for the Thoroughbred and Standardbred industries. Enhancing fertility for the Thoroughbred and Standardbred industries. Responding to industry calls for improved methods of detecting and managing infertility in both stallions and mares, this project aims to provide a platform for competitive collaborations between universities, biotechnology companies and horse breeders: the end-users of technological developments in equine reproduction. The Thoroughbred and Standardbred breeding industries contribute over $6.5 billion per annum to the Australian economy and employ thousands of staff across their value chains. However, these industries suffer from breeding program inefficiencies that amount to over $800 million in annual losses. Expected outcomes are novel reproductive technologies and specialised research capabilities that will make the Australian equine industry a global leader.Read moreRead less
Enhancing the efficiency of equine reproduction: relevant to the Thoroughbred and Standardbred breeding industries. The purpose of this project is to link the equine breeding industry with a major centre of reproductive research at the University of Newcastle. By creating this unique nexus, major efficiency gains will be achieved for this industry that will not only secure its international competitiveness but also significantly enhance its profitability.