UQ leads in pig cryogenics

Global trade in pig genetics could soon be a reality as ground-breaking cryogenic research at the University of Queensland enters commercial proving trials.

The patented technology snap freezes embryos within four days of fertilisation. At this early development stage, the egg is still protected by a shell which can be "washed" to prevent transmission of diseases.

Scientific team leader Associate Professor Ranald Cameron said pig embryos were extremely sensitive to temperatures below 15 deg C and it had taken years to perfect the early freezing, thawing and implantation techniques to produce live piglets.

The work was carried out by Dr Cameron, embryologist Dr Luke Beebe and reproductive physiologist Dr Alan Blackshaw. It was funded under contract with SYGEN, the Research and Development arm of PIC International Inc, the world`s largest pig breeding company.

Dr Cameron lectured on pig diseases and production for 30 years at the University’s School of Veterinary Science before focusing on embryo research.

He said the risk of transmitting pig diseases had restricted international genetics trade and generated pent-up demand around the globe.

"Countries around the world have been extremely wary about introducing exotic diseases and some places, including Australia, ban the movement of genetic material," he said.

Dr Cameron said the Australian pig industry could benefit from the introduction of superior pig genetics, particularly in tailoring a pork product to meet overseas requirements.

An assessment of the disease risk by the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service would be necessary before any approvals were granted to import genetic material.

Dr Cameron said the Australian industry was keenly interested but securing local financing for research was difficult.

"PIC saw the potential of our work and provided funding under a research agreement managed through UniQuest, the University’s commercial development company,” he said.

Dr Cameron said research on a small number of pigs had achieved litters averaging 6.5 piglets.

"We are continually refining our techniques and are now transplanting 20 to 30 sows into a commercial herd at a rate of two to three a week," he said.

"It`s reached the stage where it is now viable for transfer of high-value genetic material."

Dr Cameron and Dr Beebe will travel to the Californian headquarters of SYGEN’s research and development laboratories early next year to assist with the commercial introduction of the technology.

Media: For more information, contact Associate Professor Ranald Cameron (telephone 07 3365 5721) or Anthony Smith (telephone 0409 265 587).