The aim of the review is to show the major scientific advances achieved in the animal reproduction area and how they can affect the productive and reproductive performance of cattle in Brazil. The knowledge about the mechanisms involved in the reproductive physiology control, in endocrine, cellular and molecular level allowed the development of reproductive biotechnologies. Among these the TAI has been used in large scale, with some advantages such as the multiplication of genetically superior animals, increasing on birth rate in addition to being an effective tool for adjusting the breeding season especially in beef cattle. Other biotechnologies such as ET, IVEP, cloning and transgenesis are also fundamental in the development of basic science, medicine and animal preservation researches. The main nutritional, reproductive and health management factors that affect the dairy cattle productivity are also presented. However, research incentive is essential to improve these biotechnologies, to continue helping the development of national livestock.
artificial insemination; cloning; embryo transfer; IVEP; reproductive physiology; scientific advances