36th Annual Conference of the IETS / 23rd Annual Meeting SBTE

36 th Annual Conference of the IETS / 

23 rd Annual Meeting SBTE 

Sheraton Cordoba Hotel 

January 9-12, 2010 

Cordoba, Argentina 

Program & Registration Book

Invitation from the Presidents 

It is a great pleasure to invite you to the annual meeting of the International Embryo Transfer Society (IETS) 

in Cordoba, Argentina from January 9th to 12th, 2010. The IETS is a dynamic group of scientists that focuses 

on all facets of embryo technologies, including embryo transfer, in vitro embryo production, embryo culture, 

cloning, and transgenesis in species ranging from domestic agricultural, laboratory and companion animals 

to wild, endangered species and humans. 

The 2010 meeting is an exciting new venture for IETS as we embark on our first truly joint meeting with another 

society - the Brazilian Embryo Technology Society (Sociedade Brasileira de Tecnologia de Embriões, SBTE). The 

Program Chairs, Matt Wheeler and Gabriel Bo, have put together an exciting program for the main conference 

entitled ‘Back to basics: from the bench to the field’. Given the range of invited speakers the program promises 

to have something for the scientist and practitioner alike. In addition, a pre-conference symposium organized by 

Reuben Mapletoft and our partners, Bioniche Animal Health, will deal with new developments in the practice 

of embryo transfer while Fulvio Gandolfi will organize a half day workshop on current progress in embryonic 

stem cell research in domestic animals. Thanks to the hard work of the local organizing team, headed by Gabriel 

Bo, the meeting promises to be a great success. 

Put the dates in your diary now and we look forward to meeting you in Cordoba. 

Best wishes 

Pat Lonergan, President IETS 

Fernando Garcia, President SBTE 

Table of Contents 

1 ... Invitation from the Presidents 

2 ... Tentative Calendar of Events 

4 ... Registration Information 

5 ... General Information 

6 ... Travel Information 

7 ... Accommodation Information 

8 ... Additional Accomodation Information 

9 ... Program 

13 ... Pre-conference Satellite Symposium 

14 ... Pre-conference Satellite Workshop 

15 ... Pre-conference Satellite Workshop 

16 ... Special Events 

17 ... Cordoba Information and Attractions 

18 ... Job Resouce Center 

19 ... Membership Application

Tentative Calendar of Events 

Event times and locations are subject to change; events may be added. 

Thursday, January 7, 2010 

9:00 - 18:00 IETS Board of Governors Meeting (Sala A) 

Friday, January 8, 2010 

9:00 - 18:00 IETS Board of Governors Meeting (Sala A) 

9:00 - 18:00 Health and Safety Advisory Committee (HASAC) - Research Subcommittee (Suquia A) 

16:00 - 19:00 Registration (pick up of pre-registrations only) (Main Foyer) 

Saturday, January 9, 2010 

7:00 - 18:00 Registration (Main Foyer) 

9:00 - 12:00 Health and Safety Advisory Committee (HASAC) - Regulatory Subcommittee (Suquia A) 

8:00 - 18:00 Pre-Conference Symposium: New Developments in the Practice of Embryo Transfer (Lugones A) 

13:00 - 18:00 Poster Setup (Champaqui and Yacanto) 

13:00 - 17:00 IETS Foundation Board of Trustees Meeting (Sala A) 

13:00 - 18:00 Commercial Exhibit Setup (Lugones Foyer) 

14:00 - 17:00 Health and Safety Advisory Committee (HASAC) - Food Safety Subcommittee (Suquia A) 

14:30 - 18:00 DABE Pre-Conference Workshop: Current Progress in Domestic Animals Embryonic Stem Cell 

Research (Lugones C) 

Sunday, January 10, 2010 

7:30 - 8:30 Past President’s Breakfast (Suquia) 

7:30 - 8:30 Student Competition Breakfast with Foundation Education Committee (VIP - Las Sierras) 


8:00 - 17:00 Commercial Exhibition (Lugones Foyer) 

8:00 - 17:00 A/V Library/Speaker Preparation (Uritorco A) 

8:30 - 9:30 IETS Foundation Education Committee (Sala A) 

8:45 - 9:00 Opening and Welcome (Lugones) 

9:00 - 10:30 Session I: The Donor Animal (Lugones) 

10:30 - 11:00 Refreshment Break/Exhibition (Lugones Foyer) 

11:00 - 12:30 IETS Foundation Student Competition Presentations (Lugones) 

12:30 - 14:00 Lunch Break 

12:30 - 14:00 IETS Board Luncheon with Affiliate Society Representatives (Suquia A) 

12:30 - 14:00 Health and Safety Advisory Committee (HASAC) - Forms & Certificates Subcommittee 

(Suquia B) 

14:00 - 16:00 Session II: Control of Environmental Conditions in the Lab and Field (Lugones) 


16:30 - 18:30 Session III: Embryo Manipulation (Lugones) 

18:30 - 19:30 Health and Safety Advisory Committee (HASAC) Open Meeting (Lugones) 

20:00 Welcome Reception (Lugones Room and Lugones Foyer) 

36 th Annual Conference 

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Tentative Calendar of Events 

Event times and locations are subject to change; events may be added. 

Monday, January 11, 2010 

7:00-8:00 Exhibitors Breakfast with Board of Governors (Suquia) 


8:00 - 18:00 Commercial Exhibits (Lugones Foyer) 


9:00 - 10:30 Poster Session I/Refreshment Break/Exhibition (Champaqui and Yacanto / Lugones Foyer) 

10:30 - 12:30 Session IV: Production of pregnancies (Lugones) 

12:30 - 14:00 IETS Data Retrieval Committee Meeting (Suquia) 

12:30 - 14:00 Lunch Break 

14:00 - 16:00 Session V: Production of Live Offspring (Lugones) 


16:30 - 17:00 IETS Pioneer Award Presentation (Lugones) 

17:00 - 18:00 IETS Annual Business Meeting (Lugones) 

18:00 - 19:00 Companion Animal, Non-Domestic & Endangered Species (CANDES) Open Meeting 

(Lugones) 

18:00 - 19:00 Domestic Animal Biomedical Embryology Committee (DABE) Open Meeting (Suquia) 

Tuesday, January 12, 2010 

7:00 - 8:30 Organizational Meeting of the IETS Board of Governors. (Sala A) 


8:00 - 13:30 Commercial Exhibits (Lugones Foyer) 


9:00 - 10:30 Poster Session II/Refreshment Break/Exhibition (Champaqui and Yacanto / Lugones Foyer) 

10:30 -12:30 Practitioners’ Forum: Cattle IVF in South America: A short story of great results… (Lugones) 

12:30 - 13:30 Lunch break 

12:00 - 13:30 Organizational Lunch Meeting of the IETS Foundation (Sala A) 

13:30 - 17:00 Commercial Exhibit & Poster Teardown (Lugones Foyer, Champaqui and Yacanto) 

13:30 - 14:00 IETS Distinguished Service Award Presentation (Lugones) 

14:00 - 14:45 IETS Foundation Student Competition Awards, CANDES & HASAC Updates (Lugones) 

15:00 - 15:45 Session VI: Keynote Address (Lugones) 

15:45 - 16:00 Closing Ceremony (Lugones) 

16:00 - 17:00 SBTE Business Meeting (Lugones) 

17:15 - 18:15 8th IETS Annual Running Competition (Meet at registration desk) 

19:00 - 8:00 Closing Party (Meet near registration desk for the buses) 

Wednesday, January 13, 2010 

8:30 - 17:00 Workshop for Authors: Publishing Scientific Papers in English (day 1) 

(Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Obispo Trejo 323, Cordoba) 

Thursday, January 14, 2010 

8:30 - 17:00 Workshop for Authors: Publishing Scientific Papers in English (day 2) 

(Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Obispo Trejo 323, Cordoba) 

Check out the IETS Web Site (http://www.iets.org/2010) for changes in the Calendar of Events and 

other activities as well as links to the sponsor web sites. 

International Embryo Transfer Society 

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Registration Information 

Registration Materials 

All registration materials are included in this mailing. Each technical registrant should complete the enclosed General Registration 

Form. One registrant per form. Please use the enclosed form to register for all events, including the Workshops and Satellite Symposium. 

Registration materials are also available on the IETS web site at http://www.iets.org/2010. 

Registration Deadline 

Registrations that are postmarked on or before November 11, 2009 will receive a lower rate than those who send in their registrations after 

November 11, 2009. No telephone or e-mail registrations will be accepted. FAX ((217) 398-4119) registrations will be accepted only if 

payment is made by credit card. Be sure to pre-register to avoid higher prices, missed events and long lines in Cordoba. 

Membership Information 

You do not have to be a member of the IETS to attend the conference. However, the difference between the member and nonmember 

registration fees makes joining the Society at the time of registration very attractive. A membership application for the IETS is 

included in this booklet on page 16. 

Payment 

Payment must accompany the registration form. Checks must be in US funds drawn on a US bank made payable to the IETS. 

Payment by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover) is available. Please complete the credit card payment 

section of the General Registration Form. 

Confirmations/Receipts 

If you pre-register by November 11, 2009, we will mail you a registration confirmation/receipt. Please verify the receipt and events 

registered for and contact the IETS Business Office with any questions. 

Calendar of Events 

Included on pages 2 and 3 of this booklet is tentative calendar of events for the conference. Event times and locations are subject 

to change and certain events may be added. 

Proceedings 

Participants will receive a CD copy of the proceedings with their registration packet in Cordoba; a printed copy of the proceedings can 

be purchased by filling out the appropriate section on the registration form. IETS members who are unable to attend the conference will 

be mailed a CD copy of the proceedings after the conclusion of the event. 

Reminder 

Wear your name tag at all functions; it is your admission pass to all conference events. Tickets for special events and functions 

will be collected at the door or at the table. All tickets look alike, but event name, location and date will appear on them. Be sure 

to give the ticket takers the appropriate ticket. 

Special Needs 

All conference rooms are wheelchair accessible. Please indicate any special needs when sending in your registration form. 

Questions??? 

All inquiries about pre-registration or the conference should be made to the IETS Business Office, 2441 Village Green Place, Champaign, 

IL 61822 USA; phone: (217) 398-4697; FAX: (217) 398-4119; e-mail: iets@assochq.org. 

On-Site Registration Hours 

Friday, January 8 16:00–19:00 

Pre-registration Pickup Only—On-site registration to start Saturday 

Saturday, January 9 07:00–18:00 

Sunday, January 10 07:00–18:00 

Monday, January 11 07:30–16:00 

Tuesday, January 12 08:00–15:00 


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General Information 

At the Conference 

Your conference packet will be available at the Registration Desk, located in the Main Foyer, during registration hours. 

Venue 

Sheraton Cordoba Hotel, Cordoba, Argentina (http://www.sheraton.com/cordoba) 

Lunch & Dining Options 

RESTAURANT LA PAMPA - SHERATON CÓRDOBA HOTEL 

Restaurant La Pampa offers unique alternatives of national and international cuisine, with a wide range of wines, including those 

from the main national wineries. 

With capacity for 120 people, the Restaurant La Pampa is a must. Enjoy the refreshing daily buffet breakfast offering tasty coffees, 

delicious natural juices, seasonal fruits and freshly prepared homemade traditional bakery. 

NUEVO CENTRO SHOPPING 

Directly in front of the Sheraton Hotel, is Nuevo Centro Shopping, with a large Food Court in the lower level. There is also a 

restaurant on the second floor. 

There is also a wide range of opportunities nearby the Sheraton Córdoba Hotel and in downtown Córdoba. These options will be 

provided at the Registration Desk, January 9, 2010 

Climate 

January is summer in Argentina. During the summer season the days are warm but the nights display a pleasant temperature decrease. 

The typical Cordoba January average temperatures are 64ºF (18ºC) (low) and 88°F (31ºC) (high). 

Currency 

The Peso is the legal tender in Argentina. There are currency exchange centers located in Cordoba Airport and in tourist agencies and 

banks in downtown and shopping centers. For up to date currency exchange information check the Universal Currency Converter at 

http://www.xe.net/ucc/. International credit cards are accepted throughout the country. 

Electricity 

The electric current in Argentina is 220 volts, 50 cycles. To use equipment designed for 110 volts, it is necessary to use a converter. 

Flat-pronged plugs, North American and European, need adapters; since the plugs in Argentina are continental, with double 

round or triple flat prongs. 

Language 

The official conference language will be English. However, simultaneous translation to Spanish and Portuguese will be provided. 

Time Zone 

Argentina’s time zone is 3 hours behind GMT (= GMT - 3). 

Passport & Visa Information 

All foreigners who wish to enter in Argentina require a passport valid for six months. The natives of Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay 

and Uruguay only require a corresponding identification of national identity. 

People wishing to enter Argentina as tourists or on business, do not require visas if they come from the following countries: 

Andorra, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, South Korea, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Ecuador, 

Spain, El Salvador, Slovenia, Slovakia, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Holland, 

Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, 

Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Nicaragua, Norway, New Zealand, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, United Kingdom and 

Northern Ireland, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, San Marino, Saint Lucia, Serbia and Montenegro, Singapore, Vincent 

and Grenadines, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Uruguay, Vatican and Venezuela. Canadian citizens must 

indicate that they are entering Argentina as tourists. 

For more information please consult the Embassy of Argentina in your country or the web site of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International 

Trade and Worship of Argentina: http://www.mrecic.gov.ar/portal/temas_consulares/visas.html 


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Travel Information 

Air Transportation 

The International Airport Ambrosio Taravella, also know as Pajas Blancas is located 9 km (5.6 mi) north-northwest 

of Córdoba. The airport connects Córdoba directly with over 100 cities throughout the world. The airport is 

served by 24 passenger carries and accommodates approximately 600 arrivals and departures each day. On any 

given day an average of 50,000 passengers will arrive or depart. 

Ground Transportation 

The International Airport Ambrosio Taravella, is connected by a modern road infrastructure to downtown. Remis 

Global is available to transport people from the Airport to their hotels for a set price. 

Remis Global 

International Airport Ambrosio Taravella 

Arrival Area - Central Hall 

Phone: + 54 351 4753083 / 4753030 / 4753020 

Cel phone: + 54 (9) 351 4038596 

E-mail: cordoba@globalremis.com.ar 

Cost: 

- From the Airport to Sheraton Córdoba Hotel: $55 argentine pesos (USD $14.90). 

- From the Airport to other hotels in city center: $53 argentine pesos (USD $14.32). 

Regular taxis are also available at the front of the main arrival level. Aproximate cost: $30 argentine 

pesos (USD $ 8). 

Reference: Exchange rate is USD $1 = $ 3.8 argentine pesos (September 9, 2009) 

Recommended Transportation from the Buenos Aires International Airport (Ezeiza) to the domestic Airport 

Jorge Newbery (Aeroparque). 

Manuel Tienda León 

Internacional Airport Ministro Pistarini (Ezeiza) 

Phone: + 54 11 4315 5115 

0 810 888 5366 

informes@tiendaleon.com.ar 

www.tiendaleon.com.ar 

Cost: 

- From Ezeiza Airport to Aeroparque Airport by bus: $45 argentinian pesos (USD $11.85). 

- From Ezeiza Airport to Aeroparque Airport by remis: $141 argentinian pesos (USD $37.10). 


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Accommodation Information 


Duarte Quiros 1300 Phone: (54)(351) 526 9000 

Cordoba, Cordoba 5000 reservas.cordoba@sheraton.com 

Argentina 

www.sheraton.com/cordoba 

General Hotel Information 

Enjoy a warm welcome at the Sheraton Cordoba Hotel. Ideally located near the heart of downtown, our hotel, the 

Sheraton Cordoba Hotel, is convenient to many of the city’s main tourist attractions, exclusive shopping areas, 

and recreational districts. It is also just minutes from Cordoba International Airport. In addition to its boutique 

style, the striking architectural design of the hotel, with its 16 floors rising gracefully around a central 

atrium, offers beautiful views of Cordoba’s downtown and immense green ranges. Gather with friends or 

colleagues and enjoy a wide range of local and international cuisine at La Pampa Restaurant or cocktails 

and drinks in the Lobby Bar. 

Room Rates Available for the IETS 2010 Annual Conference: 

The Hotel confirms the following guest room rates: 

Single Occupancy $135 

Double Occupancy $135 

Breakfast is inlcuded with the room. 

The 188 tastefully-appointed guest rooms and suites offer complete comfort and modern decor in an elegant 

atmosphere. Spacious, luminous, and comfortable, rooms afford a beautiful view of the city and wonderful 

amenities. The Sheraton room accommodations include a variety of in-room amenities: 24-hour room service, 

non-smoking room, cable channels, iron/ironing board, 29” television with remote control, international direct 

dialing, in-room electronic safe, hairdryer , wake-up service, alarm clock, smoke detectors in room, voicemail, 

sprinklers in room, work desk, data port, radio, and individual climate control. 

Reservations 

Please make your reservations directly with the hotel. 

Make sure to indicate that you are with the International Embryo Transfer Society Meeting. 

To make reservations by phone please call (54)(351) 526 9000. 

To make reservations via email, please send the following information to reservas.cordoba@sheraton.com: 

Name 

Address 

Phone 

Email (very important, confirmation will be sent via email) 

Arrival Date 

Departure Date 

Room Type - (Single, Double with 2 twin beds or 1 large bed, etc.) 

Specials - Smoking/Non Smoking - Upper/lower floors - etc 

Guarantee - Credit Card Number, Expiration Date, Security Code 


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Additional Accommodation Information 

Amerian (****) 

US$ 121 

Bv. San Juan 165 (X5000ATB) 

Córdoba, Argentina 

Telephone: +54 351 420 7000 

info@amerian.com 

www.amerian.com 

NH-Panorama (****) 

Single: U$S 97 Double: U$S 105 

Marcelo T. de Alvear (La Cañada), 251. X5000KGE 


Telephone: +54.35.14103900 

nhpanorama@nh-hotels.com 

www.nh-hotels.com/nh/en/hotels/argentina/cordoba/nh-panorama.html 

NH-Urbano (***) 

Single: U$S 84 Double: U$S 84 

Marcelo T.de Alvear(La Cañada), 363. X5000KGF 


Telephone: +54.35.14103960 

nhpanorama@nh-hotels.com 

www.nh-hotels.com/nh/en/hotels/argentina/cordoba/nh-urbano.html 

King David (****) 

US$ 94 

Av. General Paz 386 - X5000JLQ 

Córdoba, Argentina 

Telephone: +54-351-570-3528 

reservas@kingdavid.com.ar 

www.kingdavid.com.ar 

Holiday Inn (*****) 

Standard: U$S 133 Executive: U$S 157 Suite: U$S 242 

Fray Luis Beltrán y M. Cardeñosa 

Bº Poeta Lugones 


Telephone: +54 (0351) 4779156/00 

reservas@holidayinncba.com.ar 

www.holidayinncba.com.ar 

Hotel Reservations 

The deadline for hotel reservations is December 12, 2009. 

Please make your hotel reservation before this date to ensure 

that you receive the discounted rate. 


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Main Theme: Back to the Basics, From the Bench to the Field 

Program 

Session I: The Donor Animal 

Recent Progress in Folliculogenesis: Coordinated Regulation by Germ and Somatic Cells 

Bruce D. Murphy, University of Montreal, St-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada 

The continuum of folliculogenesis begins in the fetal ovary with the differentiation of the oogonia and their isolation 

within the primordial follicles. Primordial follicle activation is an enigmatic process, whereby some follicles enter 

the growing pool to become primary follicles, thereby embarking on an irreversible progression toward ovulation 

or atresia. This process is under the coordinated regulation of factors from the oocyte itself, and from the somatic 

cells of the ovary, in particular, the theca and granulosa cells that are structural components of the follicle. These 

two influences provide the principal stimuli for the growth of the follicle to the late preantral or early antral 

stage of development. The endocrine influences of the gonadotropins, FSH and LH are essential to the continued 

progression of the follicle, and most atresia can be attributed to the failure to receive or process the gonadotropin 

signals. The peri-ovulatory state has received intensive investigation recently, demonstrating a coordinated role for 

gonadotropins, steroids, epidermal growth factor family proteins and prostaglandins. Thus, a complex program of 

coordinated interaction of governing elements from both germ and somatic cell sources is required for successful 

follicle development. 

Mammalian Oocyte Development; Checkpoints for Competence 

Trudee Fair, University College Dublin, Ireland 

During the lifetime of female mammals, husbandry practices, production demands and disease induce biochemical 

changes in the ovarian environment. These changes can have a profound effect on ovarian oocyte quality and 

subsequently embryo development. Although it is widely accepted that poor oocyte quality can be a contributing 

factor to infertility in cattle, there is no consensus regarding the time or period of follicular oocyte development that 

is particularly sensitive to insult. Here the key molecular and morphological events that occur during mammalian 

oocyte and follicle growth are reviewed, with a specific focus on identifying critical checkpoints in oocyte development. 

Two stages of oocyte development emerge as potential checkpoints: The secondary follicle stage, as major 

events such as the activation of the oocyte transcriptome and sequestration of oocyte specific organelles occur 

and several months later, the periovulatory period, when essential mRNA transcript processing occurs, meiosis 

resumes and chromosomes must segregate and align correctly. A comprehensive review of the literature pertaining 

to the identification of biomarkers of oocyte quality and competence is presented with particular emphasis on data 

available for bovine oocytes. 

Session II: Control of Environmental Conditions in the Lab and Field 

Is the Zona Pellucida an Effi cient Barrier for Viral Infection? 

Ann van Soom, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium 

Although transfer of bovine embryos is much less likely to result in disease transmission than transport of live 

animals, the sanitary risk associated with bovine embryo transfer remains the subject of both scientific investigations 

and adaptations of national and international legislation: these directives have therefore important consequences for 

the veterinary practitioner. Besides in vivo derived cattle embryos, also in vitro produced embryos or embryos from 

other species such as pigs and horses are being transferred in fairly significant numbers nowadays and this fact may 

call for new studies in this important area of research, which provides a link between science and practice. With the 

wide variety of embryos and the large number of corresponding viruses in mind, it is convenient to reconsider in 

this review the importance of the zona pellucida as a barrier for viral infection. For embryos with an intact zona, 

viral infection of the embryo is unlikely to occur. The virus may however stick to the zona pellucida and in this 

case, IETS washing procedures in combination with trypsin treatment are mandatory. Caveats are the fact that more 

and more types of embryos become available for transfer nowadays, and scientific data cannot be extrapolated 

from one species to another. 


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Program 

Towards Use of Microfl uidics for Individual Embryo Culture 

Rebecca Krisher, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA 

Mammalian embryo development is still relatively inefficient in vitro. Much research has been conducted on the 

chemical environment, or culture medium, surrounding the embryo, but little attention has been given to the actual 

physical culture environment, which has changed very little over the years. The application of microfluidics to 

embryo production in vitro is a tantalizing approach that may alleviate some of the limits that traditional microdrop 

culture places on embryo development, and the research of gamete and embryo physiology. These devices may lead 

to enhanced in vitro embryo development and quality in vitro, by more closely mimicking the in vivo environment. 

Initial work in this area is promising, and gives us proof of principle that these unique microfluidic systems may 

indeed be applicable to in vitro culture of gametes and embryos. This manuscript will review the advantages 

of microfluidics for in vitro embryo production, briefly how the platforms are manufactured, the current uses of 

microfluidics in assisted reproduction, static versus dynamic culture environments, individual gamete and embryo 

culture, and the future directions of microfluidic application to in vitro embryo production and manipulation. 

Finally, preliminary data in our laboratory using a new microfluidic well insert for porcine, bovine and murine 

embryo culture will be discussed. 

Session III: Embryo Manipulation 

Challenge Testing of Gametes to Enhance Their Viability 

Henrik Callesen, Danish Institute of Ag. Sciences, Tjele, Denmark 

Embryos, oocytes and spermatozoa undergo several manipulations during the in-vitro procedures that are an 

integrated part of the various assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in mammals. As one consequence of this, 

some of the gametes are damaged irreparably, while others have the ability to react with a survival mechanism that 

brings them through the challenging conditions - stronger and more viable. The details of such a survival mechanism 

remain unknown, but if identified, it could have immense potential as a new way to improve viability of embryos 

produced by ART. However, only few publications describe systematic ways to challenge test the gametes with use 

of the result as a basis for improving gamete viability. Furthermore, new methods for monitoring the reaction(s) of 

gametes to such challenge tests are needed. In this review, these two issues are discussed, as well as some of the 

conditions that are required for a challenge test protocol to be part of the future work with ART. 

Applications of RNA Interference Based Gene Silencing in Animal Agriculture 

Charles Long, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX, USA 

Classical genetic selection, recently aided by genomic selection tools, has been successful in achieving 

remarkable progress in livestock improvement. However, genetic selection has led to decreased genetic diversity 

and in some cases acquisition of undesirable traits. In order to meet the increased demands of our expanding 

population new technologies and practices must be developed that contend with zoonotic and animal disease, 

environmental impacts of large farming operations and the increased food and fiber production needed to feed and 

cloth our society. Future increases in productivity may be dependent upon the acquisition of genetic traits not 

currently encoded by the genomes of animals used in standard agricultural practice, thus making classical genetic 

selection impossible. 

Genetic engineering of livestock is commonly used to produce pharmaceuticals or to impart enhanced production 

characteristics to animals, but has also demonstrated its utility in producing animals with disease resistance. 

However, significant challenges remain, as it has been more difficult to produce animals in which specific genes 

have been removed. It is now possible to modify livestock genomes to block expression of endogenous and 

exogenous genes (such as those expressed following virus infection). In this review we discuss mechanisms of 

silencing gene expression via the biology of RNA interference (RNAi), the technology of activating the RNAi 

pathway and the application of this technology to enhance livestock production through increased production 

efficiency and prevention of disease. An increased demand for sustainable food production is at the forefront of 

scientific challenges and RNAi technology will undoubtedly play a key role. 


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Session IV: Production of Pregnancies 

The Impact of Gamete Source and Culture Conditions on the Competence of the In Vitro Produced Embryo 

for Post-Transfer Survival in Cattle 

Peter Hansen, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA 

One limitation to the use of in vitro produced embryos in cattle production systems is the fact that pregnancy rates 

after transfer to recipients are typically lower than when embryos produced in vivo are transferred. Conceptually, 

the oocyte and sperm from which the embryo is derived could affect competence for post-transfer survival. There 

are sire differences in embryonic survival after transfer but there is little evidence that an embryo’s ability to 

establish pregnancy is determined by sex-sorting of spermatozoa by flow cytometry. The role of the source of oocyte 

as a determinant of embryonic survival after transfer has not been examined carefully. Conditions for culture of 

the embryo after fertilization can have an impact on the ability of the embryo to establish pregnancy after transfer. 

Among the specific molecules produced in the reproductive tract of the cow that have been shown to improve 

competence of in vitro produced embryos for post-transfer survival are colony-stimulating factor 2, insulin-like 

growth factor-1 (for recipients exposed to heat stress) and hyaluronan (for less advanced embryos). There is also 

a report that embryo competence for post-transfer survival can be improved by inclusion of a carbon-activated air 

filtration system in the incubator used to culture embryos. Progress in developing culture systems to improve 

embryonic competence for survival after transfer would be hastened by development of in vitro assays that 

accurately predict potential of an embryo to establish pregnancy after transfer. A group of 52 genes has been 

identified that are differentially expressed in embryos that developed to term vs embryos that did not establish 

pregnancy. Perhaps, a gene microarray consisting of these genes, alone or in combination with other genes, could be 

used to screen embryos for competence to establish pregnancy. 

Bovine Embryo Transfer Recipient Synchronization and Management in Tropical Environments 

Pietro Baruselli, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil 

Numerous studies have shown that it is possible to manipulate follicular and luteal dynamics, thereby eliminating 

the need for estrus detection in embryo transfer programs (ET). Fixed-time embryo transfer (FTET) protocols 

are based on the use of GnRH and PGF or progesterone/progestogen (P4) releasing devices and estradiol. FTET 

protocols increase the proportions of recipients transferred and pregnancy rates compared with those using PGF 

followed by ET 7 days after estrus. Furthermore, the addition of eCG to the P4 and estradiol-based FTET protocols 

resulted in a greater proportion of recipients transferred and higher pregnancy rates. The beneficial effect of eCG 

treatment may be related to an increased growth of the dominant follicle and increased plasma P4 concentrations 

during the subsequent luteal phase. In Bos taurus x Bos indicus recipients pregnancy rates were positively correlated 

with the diameter of the CL and the number of CL at ET. When repeat breeder Holstein cows were used 

as recipients, FTET protocols increased number of recipients transferred and pregnancy rates compared to the 

traditional PGF-based synchronization protocols. In conclusion, the use of FTET protocols eliminates the necessity 

of estrus detection and results in a greater proportion of recipients transferred and satisfactory pregnancy rates. Thus, 

it optimizes the use of recipients, reducing labor and animal handling and facilitating the utilization of ET. 

Session V: Production of Live Offspring 

Pregnancy Recognition and Abnormal Offspring Syndrome in Cattle 

Charlotte Farin, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 

Development of the post-hatching conceptus in ruminants involves a period of morphological expansion driven 

by complex interactions between the conceptus and its intrauterine environment. As a result of these interactions 

endometrial physiology is altered, leading to establishment of the pregnancy and continued development of the 

placenta. Disruption of normal conceptus, fetal and placental development can occur when embryos are exposed 

to manipulations in vitro or when inappropriate endocrine sequencing occurs in vivo during the pre- and periimplantation 

period. This presentation will address the development of the post-hatching bovine conceptus, its 

interactions with the maternal system and alterations in development which can occur as a result of in vivo and in 

vitro manipulations of the bovine embryo. 


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Program

Program 

Delivery of Cloned Offspring: A Zebu Cattle (Bos indicus) Experience 

Flavio Meirelles, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil 

The production of a healthy cloned calf is dependent on a multitude of successful steps, including the reprogramming 

mediated by the oocyte, the development of a functional placenta, the adequate materno-fetal interaction, 

the establishment of a physiological metabolic setting, and the formation of a complete set of well differentiated 

cells that will eventually result in well characterized and fully competent tissues and organs. Although nuclear 

transfer efficiency improved significantly since the first SCNT derived animal report, there are many descriptions 

of anomalies concerning cloned calf leading to a high perinatal morbidity and death rate. This article aims to 

discuss some of our acquired clinical and management experience in perinatal and neonatal procedures for cloned 

Zebu cattle (B. indicus) that has been successful in improving survival rates in Nellore cloned calves following the 

application of such ?labor-intensive technology? 

Practitioners’ Forum 

Cattle IVF in South America: A short story of great results… 

Brazilian Embryo Technology Society (Sociedade Brasileira de Tecnologia de Embriões, SBTE) 

This two-hour session will highlight the history of massive dissemination of in vitro embryo production in 

South America in the last 10 years, which has made the region responsible for half of the cattle embryos 

produced in the world. The session will begin with an introductory lecture about the history of IVF use in 

the region, followed by short (15-minute) reports from private and research laboratories, as well as field 

practitioners, showing their results and current opportunities in this sector. The objective of this forum 

is to promote discussion among researchers, laboratory staff and field practitioners not only from South 

America but from other regions of the world. 

Session VI: Keynote Address 

Systems Biology of Embryogenesis 

Nathan Price, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA 

The development of a complete organism from a single cell involves extraordinarily complex orchestration of 

biological processes that vary intricately across space and time. Systems biology seeks to describe how all elements 

of a biological system interact in order to understand, model, and ultimately predict aspects of emergent biological 

processes. Embryogenesis represents an extraordinary opportunity - and challenge - for the application of systems 

biology. Systems approaches have already been used successfully to study various aspects of development, from 

complex intracellular networks to 4D models of organogenesis. Going forward, great advancements and discoveries 

can be expected from systems approaches applied to embryogenesis and developmental biology. 


12

New Developments in The Practice Of Embryo Transfer 

IETS 2010 Symposium 



Bioniche Animal Health is again generously sponsoring a symposium on new developments in the practice of 

embryo transfer for practitioners and clinical scientists, immediately before the Annual Meeting of the IETS in 

Cordoba, Argentina. Eight leading researchers and practitioners from Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, New Zealand 

and the USA will be presenting new and previously unpublished information. Be sure to get registered early 

to ensure your attendance. 

08:00 Opening comments. 

Scientific Program 

08:30 New approaches to superovulation in the cow. 

Dr. Gabriel Bo, Argentina 

09:15 The use of knowledge on LH receptors to improve superstimulatory treatments in cattle. 

Dr. Ciro Barros, Brazil 

10:00 Coffee break 

10:30 New approaches to superovulation and embryo transfer in small ruminants. 

Dr. Alejo Menchaca, Uruguay 

11:15 Synthetic media for culture, freezing and vitrification of bovine embryos. 

Dr. John Hasler, USA 

12:00 Lunch 

13:30 Factors affecting fertilization and early embryo quality in single- and superovulated dairy cattle. 

Dr. Roberto Sartori, Brazil 

14:15 The use of equine chorionic gonadotrophin in synchronized AI of seasonal breeding, 

pasture-based, anestrous dairy cattle. 

Dr. Mark Bryan, New Zealand 

15:00 Coffee Break 

15:30 Practical applications of new research information in the practice of bovine embryo transfer. 

Dr. Charles Looney, USA 

16:15 Brief introduction to whole genome selection in cattle using SNPs. 

Dr. George Seidel, USA 

17:00 General discussion. 

Moderator, Reuben Mapletoft, Canada 

18:00 Close 

Pre-Conference Satellite Symposium 


13

Pre-Conference Satellite Workshop 

“Current Progress in Domestic Animals Embryonic Stem Cell Research” 

Organized by The Domestic Animal Biomedical Embryology Committee 



14.00 - 14.15 Welcome and Introduction 

Fulvio Gandolfi 

14.15 - 14.45 The role of epigenetic modifiers for the establishment of mammalian pluripotent cell lines 

Paul J. Verma 

14.45 - 15.00 Sheep embryonic germ cells 

Sergio Ledda 

15.00 - 15.30 Mankind’s best friend: Canine embryonic stem cells 

Marlon Schneider 

15.30 - 15.45 Derivation of cat embryonic stem-like cells from in vitro-produced blastocysts 

Martha Gomez 

15.45 - 16.15 Coffee break 

16.15 - 16.30 Equine embryos and embryonic stem cells: Defining true markers of pluripotency 

Damien Paris 

16.30 - 17.00 Goat embryonic stem cells 

Esmail Behboodi 

17.00 - 17.15 Pig embryonic stem cells 

Tiziana Brevini 

17.15 - 17.45 Development of putative induced pluripotent stem cells in swine 

Jorge A. Piedrahita 

17.45 - 18.00 Conclusions 


14

Post-Conference Workshop for Authors 

Workshop for Authors 

Publishing Scientific Papers in English 

January 13-14, 2010 

John P. Kastelic, DVM, PhD, Co-Editor-in-Chief, Theriogenology 

Many manuscripts are delayed or rejected due to poor experimental design, analysis and presentation of data, 

and writing. This workshop covers how to plan and conduct research, analyze and present data, write a paper, 

and interact with editors and reviewers. In addition to presentations of principles and common errors, there will 

be exercises and interactive discussions. Course notes and certificates of attendance will issued. 

This workshop is primarily designed for those for whom English is a second language. Therefore, English 

syntax, grammar and punctuation will be reviewed. However, this workshop will also be valuable for those for 

whom English is their native language, especially students and young scientists. 

The workshop will be held from 08:30 to 17:00 on Wednesday and Thursday, January 13 and 14, at the 

Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Obispo Trejo 323, Cordoba. This university is downtown and is walking 

distance (approximately 12 blocks) from the main conference hotel for the 2010 IETS meeting. 

Class size is limited, so please register early to ensure your place. Registration fees are payable to IETS via 

the registration form (www.iets.org/2010). The reduced early registration fee (US$150 for IETS members listed 

in current membership directory; US$200 for nonmembers) must be received before 11 November 2009. The 

On-Site registration fee is US$200 for IETS members and US$250 for non-members (if space is available). 

Student registration (undergraduate or graduate students and post-doctoral fellows) is US$125, pre-paid or 

US$175 at the door. The registration fee does not include meals. 

This workshop will be conducted by Dr. Kastelic. He has more than 20 years of experience conducting research 

and publishing papers, and is author or co-author of >100 peer-reviewed articles and >200 abstracts, proceedings 

and other articles. In addition, he has considerable experience as a reviewer and editor, including serving as 

Co-Editor-in-Chief of Theriogenology since 2003. He has done presentations and workshops on science and 

science writing in nine countries on four continents. It has been his privilege to visit South America on several 

occasions, primarily to conduct collaborative research and to deliver lectures and workshops on science and 

science writing. 

For information about the workshop, contact Dr. Kastelic: 

therio@shaw.ca 

403-317-2236 (voice) 

403-382-3156 (fax) 

Registration and fees: 

www.iets.org/2010 

iets@assochq.org 

217-398-4697 (voice) 


15

Special Events 

Open Meeting of the Health And Safety Advisory Committee 


18:00 - 19:00 

Lugones 

Welcome Reception 


20:00 

Sheraton Cordoba Hotel - Lugones Room and Lugones Foyer 

The Welcome Reception will take place on January 10, 2010, at 20:00. Wines Cocktails and Hors d’oeuvres will 

be served at the Lugones room and among the exhibits in the Foyer. 

Open Meeting of the Domestic Animal Biomedical Embryology Committee 


18:00 - 19:00 

Suquia 

Open Meeting of the Companion Animals, Non-Domestic & Endangered Species Committee 


18:00 - 19:00 

Lugones 

Practitioner’s Forum - Commercial IVP 


10:30 - 12:30 

Lugones 

8th IETS Annual Running Competition 


16:30 - 17:30 

Meet near the registration desk. The course will take participants around beautiful Cordoba. We look 

forward to seeing you participate. 

Closing Party 


19:00 - until the last bus go home 

Estancia La Angelina (30 minutes from Downtown Córdoba) 

http://www.laangelina.net 

Attendees will be transported by bus from the main conference hotels (Sheraton Córdoba Hotel, Amerian Córdoba 

Park, Holiday Inn, Orfeo Suites, King David Flat Hotel, NH Panorama and Urbano) to the party. 

The service will consist of different Argentine dishes and beverages, including beef asado and red wine. We 

will have music all night for all those wishing to stay late. Buses will begin to return to the hotels at 23.00. 

The last bus will depart before day break. 


16

Córdoba Information and Attractions 

The province of Córdoba is located in the centre of the continental territory of the Argentina Republic. Córdoba is bounded 

by the provinces of Santiago del Estero and Catamarca to the north, La Rioja and San Luis to the west, La Pampa and 

Buenos Aires to the south, and Santa Fe to the east. 

The province of Córdoba has become a favored tourist destination, thanks to its beautiful landscapes, majestic mountains 

ranges and mildness of climate. 

The Province of Cordoba offers everything for the organization of events, conferences, exhibitions and fairs. Its favorable 

climate throughout the year and infrastructure is ready to ensure visitors the highest quality attention. Its shopping centers 

and gastronomic services, its intense cultural activity and nightlife of theaters, casinos, discos and nightclubs. Cordoba 

offers the best options for combining work and pleasure; a few minutes away from downtown you can take refuge in 

a preserved landscape, find monuments with exciting stories and practice the most diverse activities along with lakes 

and mountains. 

The city of Córdoba 

Founded on July 6, 1573, by Jerónimo Luis de Cabrera, on the banks of Río Suquía (Suquía River), Córdoba is a must for 

tourists. Located in the center of Argentina between 360 and 480 meters above sea level, Córdoba has more than 

1,300,000 inhabitants and a dynamic economy which makes it the second most important city in Argentina. Because of 

its strategic location, it constitutes a great national and international communication hub. Another distinctive feature is 

its numerous universities, both public and private and great university population. The National University of Córdoba 

was founded in 1613. 

Those who come to Córdoba will be able to walk around its historical downtown - the first pedestrian area built in the 

country, and discover the treasures of its colonial architecture surrounded by outstanding beauty. 

Córdoba offers a vast network of services, accommodation facilities (both 4 and 5 star hotels), a downtown commercial 

area, three large shopping centers, various supermarkets and modern movie theaters. Also, Córdoba is the venue of 

numerous conferences, cultural and sport activities all year round. There are wonderful restaurants offering typical dishes 

as well as international menus. Night life has a special flavor: several bars, pubs, “peñas” (local folk music gatherings) and 

dance clubs. Tourists will feel safe and comfortable in this city. 

For those who would rather combine sport with the peace of the hills, there are places that offer personalized service, 

typical food, excellent indoor space and a wide range of activities: horseback riding, trekking, 4x4 tours, etc. Ideal for 

families and companions. 

More information about Córdoba available at: www.iets.org/2010 

Companion's Tour 

There are several tours organized during the Annual Conference. For more details please contact: 

Site Argentina DMC - Travel Agency 

Phone: +54 351 5891584 

Cel phone: + 54 351 (9) 3256371 

+ 54 351 (9) 3256309 

sebastian@siteargentina.travel 

www.siteargentina.travel 

REMINDER 

Early registration deadline is November 11, 2009 


17

Job Resource Center 

Looking for 

that perfect job? 

Looking for the 

perfect employee? 

Let IETS end your search at the Job Resource Center 

at the 2010 Annual Conference in Cordoba 

If you are looking for the perfect job, please bring 10 copies of your resume to the 

IETS Annual Conference in Cordoba. Graduates, undergraduates, and professionals 

looking for a job are encouraged to participate. If you are unable to attend the conference, 

but would like to participate in the Job Resource Center, please send your 10 

resumes by December 1, 2009 to: IETS Job Resource Center, 2441 Village Green 

Place, Champaign, IL 61822, USA. 

If your company is looking for the perfect employee, please bring 10 copies of 

your position announcement which includes details such as qualifications and deadlines 

to the IETS Annual Conference in Cordoba. Companies, universities, and governmental 

agencies are encouraged to participate. If you are unable to attend the 

conference, but would like to participate in the Job Resource Center, please send 

your 10 position announcements by December 1, 2009 to: IETS Job Resource Center, 

2441 Village Green Place, Champaign, IL 61822, USA. 


18

Join the IETS 

now and save 

on registration 

fees for the 

2010 Annual 

Conference in 


By becoming a member of the IETS 

now, you will enjoy a reduced 

rate when you register for the 

2010 Annual Conference. 

As a member, you will receive the 

on-line quarterly Embryo Transfer 

Newsletter of the IETS, on-line 

subscription to Reproduction, 

Fertility and Development, an 

on-line searchable membership 

directory, discounted rates for all 

sales items (books, videos & slides) 

offered by IETS and discounts 

and advance information on future 

conferences and events. 

IETS Membership Application 

Membership Application 


2010 Annual Conference Special 

___ Yes! I'd like to become a new member of the 

IETS now for 2010 and save when I register for the 

conference. 

Name 

Last First M.I. 

Title 

Company/Institution 

Address 

City 

State/Province 

Zip/Postal Code 

Country 

Phone 

FAX 

E-mail 

Membership Type 

___ Full Member US $160* 

___ Associate Member US $160* 

___ Student Member US $80* 

*Includes a $10 administrative fee for joining 

with the Annual Conference. 

Payment 

___Check #___________ 

___MasterCard ___Visa ___AMEX ___Discover 

Card # 

Expiration date 

Signature 

You will also be entitled to reduced 

subscription rates to Theriogenology 

and Animal Reproduction Science. 


19 

Please mail with registration and remittance to: 

IETS 

2441 Village Green Place 

Champaign, IL 61822 USA 

(217) 398-4697, FAX: (217) 398-4119 

E-mail: iets@assochq.org 

Web Site: http://www.iets.org


20

2010 MEETING SPONSORS 

as of September 21, 2009 

GOLD ($8,000+) 

SILVER ($5000-$7000) 

BRONZE ($2000-$4999) 

FRIEND (up to $1999)

36th Annual Conference of the IETS / 23rd Annual Meeting SBTE

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