Blog & News Releases: Cloning

Do Cows Have Eggs? Exploring the Foundation of Cattle Reproduction

January 16, 2025

By Diane Broek If you’ve ever wondered, “Do cows have eggs?” the answer is yes—but not quite the kind you’re picturing. Unlike chickens, cows don’t lay large, shell-covered eggs. Instead, they produce microscopic structures called oocytes—the foundation of reproduction. Though small enough to resemble a speck of dust, these oocytes play an essential role in the cattle reproduction process. At Trans Ova Genetics, we work with these incredible “eggs” to help farmers and ranchers achieve their breeding goals through advanced reproductive technologies like embryo transfer (ET), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and cloning. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of oocytes and…

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Where should I store my genetic preservation and express tissue bank samples?

June 28, 2024

by Diane Broek We encourage clients to store their genetic preservation (GP) and express tissue bank (ETB) samples at Trans Ova Genetics rather than in their tanks at home.  We charge a small storage fee after the first anniversary of the GP and ETB sample production. Many clients ask if they should store their samples in their liquid nitrogen (LN2) tanks at home to avoid storage fees, and our quick answer is no. Many differences exist between farm storage tanks and our tanks at TOG: Storage Method TOG’s storage occurs in a vapor phase vat, which reduces the chance of…

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How long does it take to produce cloned livestock?

June 28, 2024

The species you clone determines the process and time it takes to create a clone. For Bovine, the process begins the day you order a kit to take a tissue sample from your rock star.  Trans Ova Genetics will send the kit the same day or when requested.  When the client receives the kit, they can take the sample as soon as possible and return it using the Fed Ex labels provided.  You want to take the samples and return them the same day or refrigerate overnight and return them the next day.  The kit is shelf-stable until used.  Once…

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Collecting DNA from your Rockstar Livestock: A video guide

June 28, 2024

A Genetic Preservation preserves the cells and DNA from your elite animal. Starting with a small tissue sample, we produce millions of cells, that are genetically identical to your special animal, after a culture period of several weeks. At that point the cells are frozen for long term storage. A small portion of those cells will be used should you decide to clone in the future. Interested in taking a tissue sample from your animal(s)? We've produced our very own video guide to help you through the entire process. You can place an order for a Genetic Preservation, Express Tissue…

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Cloning Frequently Asked Questions

June 27, 2024

Why do livestock breeders use cloning technology? Cloning technology enables progressive producers to duplicate animals that provide the highest value in their herds, advancing their goals of producing efficient, healthier animals and higher quality food products. These animals' influence ensures a more consistent supply of desirable traits. Furthermore, cloning technology allows breeders to replace an animal lost early in its breeding career due to death or injury, offering a unique opportunity. Moreover, cloning technology can extend the genetic influence of elite animals, contributing to the enhancement of food animal production by increasing embryo or semen production through multiple cloned animals…

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