Reproductive Biotechnology Approaches for Enhancing Livestock Productivity and Breeding Efficiency

Abstract

Productivity and breeding efficiency are vital for sustainable animal agriculture and ensuring access to food for the world. Overall, however, the reproductive inefficiency, particularly due to poor fertility, low conception rate, genetic restrictions, disease susceptibility, and poor husbandry and management, still constrain livestock production globally. Reproductive biotechnology has become an effective method for enhancing the genetic potential and reproductive performance and overall productivity of livestock systems. The aim of this study is a review of the most important approaches regarding reproduction biotechnology, such as the use of artificial insemination, estrus synchronization, embryo transfer technology, in vitro fertilization, the use of cryopreserved semen, genomic selection, cloning, and gene editing technology (CRISPR). They are assessed in relation to their contribution to improve fertility rates, promote genetic improvement, boost the productivity of their milk and meat production and help to manage livestock sustainably. The results showed that reproductive biotechnology has a distinct positive impact on the breeding efficiency, genetic spread and productivity in various livestock species. Yet, there are several potential drawbacks as well, including the high costs to implement, technical complexity, ethical considerations, regulatory restrictions, and disparate use in developing areas. Overall, the reproductive biotechnology has the potential to be a sustainable and future-forward process for livestock production.