Cryopreservation of Spermatozoa in Veterinary Medicine

Journal für Reproduktionsmedizin und Endokrinologie - Journal of Reproductive Medicine and Endocrinology 2007; 4 (2): 101-105

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Keywords: Insemination,  Kryopreservation,  Reproduktionsmedizin,  Veterinärmedizin,  artificial insemination,  semen cryopreservation,  veterinary medicine

Semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination (AI) are the most important biotechnological techniques presently applied in animal breeding. Its large-scale introduction in cattle breeding some 60 years ago aimed at the prevention of genital infections transmittable via natural mating as well as breeding progress and success by rapid spreading of valuable genes. Relating to non-food (pet) animals, the avoidance of travel and quarantine restrictions and the conservation of genetic resources are additional advantages. A strict legal framework guarantees sire identity and health innocuousness. Similarly strict guidelines regulate the quality of fresh semen, its processing for cryopreservation and its quality after freezing and thawing. Successful application of AI, particularly when using frozen and thawed semen, requires a proven breeding soundness of both, the semen donor and the semen recipient. Satisfactory results matching those of natural mating can then be obtained. It can be expected that the combined use of AI and sexed spermatozoa in distinct breeding programs will further boost breeding progress.