Utilizing the Laparoscopic Ovum Pick-Up Method for In Vitro Embryo Production in Prepubertal Anatolian Native Black Calves: A Promising Approach for Gene Banks and Endangered Species

Recent advancements in genomic technology have increased interest in using calves as oocyte sources through the laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) method, which shortens generation intervals and enhances genetic gain. This study aimed to produce embryos in vitro using oocytes from endangered Anatolian Native Black calves and to increase the number of embryos in the gene bank through LOPU, a method not previously studied in Turkey. Four Anatolian Native Black calves, approximately 3 months old, were used. The super stimulation protocol involved the application of an intravaginal sponge starting on day −5 and continuing until the LOPU procedure. FSH was administered intramuscularly six times at 12-h intervals starting at −72 h, with laparoscopic oocyte aspiration on day 0. A total of 42 A-B quality oocytes were collected, averaging 10.5 per calf. Maturation completion was 88.09%, with a cleavage rate of 76.19% at 24 h after fertilization. On day 7, blastocyst success was 28.57%. The study demonstrates that LOPU can successfully produce in vitro embryos in prepubertal endangered breed calves in Turkey, proving that LOPU is an effective method for gene bank embryo production.