Cloning Livestock: Advanced Technologies at Trans Ova Genetics

By Diane Broek

PRESERVE – MULTIPLY – ADVANCE

Innovation is moving livestock genetics forward faster than ever—and Genetic Preservation and Cloning are two of the most powerful tools available today. These technologies give progressive producers the ability to preserve irreplaceable genetics and replicate elite animals.At Trans Ova Genetics Advanced Technologies (TOGAT), we lead the industry with cutting-edge preservation and cloning services that help producers build more consistent, valuable herds. Simply put: we make the irreplaceable… replaceable.

What Is Cloning?

Cloning creates a genetic duplicate of an elite animal using a method called Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT).

Here’s how the process works:

1. Tissue Collection

We collect a small tissue sample from your elite animal using a kit provided by TOGAT. Many clients choose to do this during another service—like IVF—for added convenience.

2. Genetic Preservation (GP)

Our lab cultures the sample to create a cell line known as a Genetic Preservation (GP). Alternatively, you can store the intact tissue as an Express Tissue Bank (ETB). We then cryopreserve (freeze) these samples for long-term storage.

3. Initiating the Cloning Process

When you’re ready to clone:

• We thaw a small portion of your preserved GP sample.
• We collect oocytes (eggs) from donor animals.
• We enucleate the oocytes, removing their nucleus.
• We insert a nucleus from your preserved GP cell into the enucleated oocyte (this is called Reconstruction).
• We apply an electrical pulse to stimulate development (known as Electrofusion).
• Embryos grow in synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF) culture for about 6 days.
• We transfer the embryos into synchronized recipients, who carry and birth the cloned calves—genetically identical to your original animal.

This isn’t science fiction. It’s real innovation helping livestock producers across North America maximize their genetic investment.

Why Use Cloning?

Cloning and genetic preservation can be game-changing when applied to the right animals with clear business goals.

Here’s what it can do for you:

Preserve Elite Genetics

Replicate your best cows, bulls, steers, boars, sows, barrows, does, ewes, bucks, or wethers—whether they’re rare, valuable, aged, or simply your favorite.

Recover Lost Genetics

We can preserve cells from animals shortly after death. We can clone intact males from previously castrated ones, or produce disease-free clones from animals that acquired illness post-birth.

Enhance Uniformity

Cloning is a valuable tool for replicating the same genotype across animals—ideal for commercial production or the show ring.

Protect Rare or Endangered Genetics

We’ve preserved many animals classified as critical, including through partnerships with organizations like The Livestock Conservancy. We also offer cross-species gestation in some cases.

Advance Future Innovation

Cloning combines powerfully with other technologies like Gene Editing to:

• Create disease-resistant livestock
• Produce medical models for human disease
• Enable xenotransplantation (e.g., pigs bred for human organ transplants)
• Support biopharmaceutical research (e.g., animals that produce human antibodies)

What Sets TOGAT Apart?

At Trans Ova Genetics Advanced Technologies (TOGAT), we’ve been cloning livestock since 1998—starting with our first cloned Holstein heifer. Backed by 27+ years of success and the strength of Trans Ova Genetics, we offer unmatched expertise in reproductive technology.

What makes our program different:

• Proven SCNT protocols, refined through years of research and millions of embryo/oocyte interactions
• Flexible preservation options, including Genetic Preservation (GP) and Express Tissue Bank (ETB)
• Secure storage in monitored, long-term cryopreservation facilities
• Professional recipient herds and calving programs with trained, experienced staff
• Dedicated client service teams to guide you from start to finish—from biopsy to calf delivery

We don’t just clone—we partner with you to make smart, strategic decisions that support your goals and strengthen your program.

Is Cloning Right for You?

Cloning is about preservation and precision. If you have a rock star, a unicorn, or a once-in-a-lifetime animal, cloning could be your next best move.

Let’s start the conversation:

• Contact your Trans Ova Genetics representative for ET or IVF services
• Call us: 1-800-999-3586 and ask to speak with a TOGAT specialist
• Reach us directly:
  • Diane Broek – 712-441-3193 – diane.broek@transova.com
  • Brenna Jasper – brenna.jasper@transova.com
• Visit: www.transova.com