REPRODUÇÃO ASSISTIDA EM EQUINOS: uma análise das biotecnologias com foco em ICSI

Abstract

This paper presents a literature review on the main reproductive biotechnologies applied to equine breeding, with emphasis on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The study aimed to analyze and compare techniques such as artificial insemination (AI), embryo transfer (ET), and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), highlighting their applications, advantages, limitations, and perspectives in the genetic improvement of horses. The research was conducted in scientific databases, resulting in the selection of 55 relevant articles on the subject. The results demonstrate that, although conventional techniques such as AI and ET are widely used and present good pregnancy rates, IVF still faces limitations due to the low efficiency of sperm capacitation in the species. In this context, ICSI emerges as the most promising biotechnology, allowing direct fertilization of the oocyte and overcoming the typical physiological barriers of horses. It was also observed that factors such as the age and breed of the mares, gamete quality, reproductive season, and laboratory conditions influence the success of the procedures. It is concluded that the integrated use of these biotechnologies, especially ICSI, represents a significant advance for genetic improvement, lineage conservation, and the strengthening of Brazilian equine breeding.