Published in Scientific Papers. Series D. Animal Science, Vol. LXVIII, Issue 1
Written by Tudor POP, Ellda Mellisa SAVU, Raluca-Aniela GHEORGHE-IRIMIA, Dana TĂPĂLOAGĂ, Cosmin ȘONEA, Makki Khalaf Hussein AL DULAIMI, Eugen Adrian CHISA, Paul-Rodian TĂPĂLOAGĂ
The use of artificial insemination (AI) in sheep breeding poses both considerable obstacles and exciting prospects. This research delves into the complexities of artificial insemination, focussing on factors influencing fertility rates, semen handling techniques, and the effect of hormone treatments on reproductive success. Several studies reveal that the success of AI is dependent on ideal sperm quality, which can be negatively impacted by cryopreservation procedures; for example, the concentration of sperm upon freezing has been found to influence post-thaw quality and subsequent reproductive outcomes in sheep. Furthermore, the method of insemination used - whether cervical or laparoscopic - is important, with laparoscopic techniques frequently providing greater pregnancy rates due to their ability to avoid anatomical challenges presented by the ewe's cervix. Furthermore, synchronising oestrus with hormonal therapies, such as oxytocin or equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG), has been found as a critical element in improving the timing and efficiency of AI. However, the unpredictability in conception rates is still a problem, with reported statistics ranging from 20% to 70% depending on the procedures used and the settings under which AI is conducted. Environmental influences, such as temperature and stress, impair reproductive results, especially in the vital early phases of embryo development. The aim of this review is to summarise current research in order to identify best practices and new opportunities for improving the efficacy of AI in sheep breeding.
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