From biological fundamentals to practice, and back

It has become evident that advances in farm animal reproduction have become increasingly dependent on fundamental scientific research in addition to an understanding of the physiological processes involved in reproduction. As a consequence, most innovations are now coming from a long linear process starting with fundamental scientific research to their application on the farm and lastly, consumer acceptance. The emerging perception of life's complexity is also indicating that technical advances must be better understood before they are implemented by the producer and accepted by the public. To the biological complexity, one must now add the complexity of human interaction on a global level through regulation, international trade and public information. In this context, more than ever, advancements in animal reproduction must be developed in parallel with the scientific understanding of the cause and consequences of human intervention.