Through its Laboratory of Physiology and Livestock Reproduction, the UGM Faculty of Animal Science (Animal Science UGM) has made a breakthrough in utilizing in vitro fertilization (IVF) for livestock using materials sourced from slaughterhouses in Yogyakarta.
This third-generation reproductive technology offers a strategic solution to accelerate the growth of livestock populations.
Head of the Laboratory of Physiology and Livestock Reproduction, Professor Diah Tri Widayati, explained that IVF technology has the potential to significantly enhance livestock population growth while improving genetic quality and supporting national food security.
“This technology improves the efficiency of producing high-quality embryos,” Professor Widayati stated during Tuesday’s Fapet Menyapa event (Nov. 19).
Professor Widayati elaborated that IVF technology allows the use of oocytes (egg cells) derived from slaughterhouse ovaries. While ovaries are typically considered waste or byproducts, they can be repurposed to produce embryos through IVF technology.
Animal Science UGM is one of Indonesia’s pioneers of IVF technology development.
In collaboration with government research institutions such as the Cipelang Livestock Embryo Center and through researcher training programs, the faculty has optimized IVF techniques, including oocyte collection, in vitro oocyte maturation (IVM), in vitro fertilization, and improving embryo culture media.
Currently, the IVF research focuses on local livestock species such as beef cattle, dairy cattle, goats, and sheep. The use of oocytes sourced from slaughterhouse ovaries aims to enhance production efficiency.
In the long term, IVF research could contribute to national food security while reducing dependence on livestock imports.
Furthermore, this technology is widely applied in regions such as North and South America and Europe, where the global trend of in vitro-produced embryos (IVP) now exceeds naturally produced embryos (in vivo) through multiple ovulation and embryo transfer.
“We aim to accelerate the genetic improvement of local livestock, strengthen national food security by ensuring a stable and high-quality supply of animal protein, and open opportunities for exporting superior embryos,” Professor Widayati explained.
Another team member, Professor Sigit Bintara, added that besides using slaughterhouse ovaries, IVF technology could improve livestock production and quality when combined with sperm from superior livestock.
Report by: Animal Science UGM/Satria
Author: Agung Nugroho
Photo by: Animal Science UGM