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National Centre of Competence NaCeBiVet Workshop on Advanced Methods in Dairy Cattle Reproduction

On 10 October 2024, a thematic workshop with a panel discussion on advanced methods and new trends in dairy cattle reproduction was held within the framework of the National Centre of Competence NaCeBiVet. The event followed a workshop on assisted reproduction and provided a platform for experts to discuss the current requirements, barriers, and opportunities for collaboration in reproductive biotechnology for cattle breeding in the Czech Republic.

The workshop participants comprised representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic, farm owners, breeders, members of the Czech-Moravian Breeders Association, a.s, field workers specializing in embryo transfer, and experts from research institutions such as the VRI and the Institute of Animal Science.

The discussions included presentations on the assignments currently being implemented in NaCeBiVet's partial projects, which aimed at practical outcomes for breeders. Participants exchanged their experiences related to the use of reproductive biotechnology in the Czech Republic, compared them with those in neighbouring countries and discussed global trends.

One of the main topics was the demand for in vitro embryo production services. The discussion pointed to the limited capacity in services for breeders, including embryo production and follow-up services in genomic procedures in breeding and embryo transfer.

"Even though it appears there is interest in these services, it is probably not to the extent that it fully meets the needs of a commercial workplace," said Doc. Anger, the guarantor of the research direction. "Therefore, it is essential to connect research with practical services so that these services can be provided efficiently and sustainably in this area," added Doc. Anger.

At the conclusion of the workshop, participants concurred that effective collaboration between research institutions and breeders can support the development and application of modern reproductive biotechnology in dairy cattle breeding in the Czech Republic.

About the research direction Biotechnology in reproduction under the National Centre of Competence NaCeBiVet:

It focuses on supporting research and development in reproductive biotechnology and its application in farm animal breeding, particularly in cattle, with the aim of increasing herd efficiency and sustainability through innovative solutions.

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