Farm animal embryo technologies: Achievements and perspectives

Abstract

Progress and changes in embryo technology in farm animals are briefly reviewed in terms of how well embryos can be made and used and what the subject has taught us about the maintenance of pregnancy and reproduction in general. Generalizations are made about the need to not accept dogma, how initially complex techniques always become simplified and thereby more applicable, and the need for the support of long-term and basic research. Personal views are offered on how best to prepare and motivate the next generation of scientists in the field, and the need for scientists to engage in the debate of how embryo technologies should be used responsibly in countering global inequalities.