The swine revolution: Can embryo transfer transform the industry?

Embryo transfer (ET) in swine is an advanced reproductive technology that enables the dissemination of elite genetic material while minimizing the risks associated with live animal transport. ET also enables the effective application of genome editing tools, supporting the propagation of pigs with traits of interest, including disease resistance and enhanced meat quality, and plays an essential role in the development of genetically modified pigs for biomedical applications. Recent innovations, including nonsurgical deep-uterine ET and improved vitrification techniques, have overcome many limitations of earlier methods, significantly improving the feasibility and efficiency of ET under commercial conditions. Although multiple factors can affect the success of ET, the most critical include the anatomical site of embryo deposition, the developmental stage of the embryos and their synchrony with the recipient's reproductive status, and the skill and training of the operator. While substantial progress has been made, further refinement is needed to unlock the commercial potential of ET in swine. Current efforts are focused on developing of nonsurgical embryo collection methods, improving in vitro production and ovum pick-up technologies and scaling up large scale vitrification protocols. Advances in immunomodulation strategies aimed at reducing peri‑implantation embryo loss are expected to enhance both the consistency and overall success rates of ET. In our opinion, ET in swine is a highly promising technology with strong commercial potential. Recent advances have improved its efficiency and feasibility, enabling rapid genetic improvement and enhanced biosecurity. We believe that continued developments in embryo handling and immunomodulation will significantly enhance success rates and scalability, positioning embryo transfer as a crucial technology in commercial swine production and biomedical applications.

Some of the studies presented in this article were supported by Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant (No 891663), MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and by ERDF/EU (Projects RTI2018–093525-B-I00, PID2022137645OB-I00 and PID2023–150622OA-100).

Peer reviewed