Cryoconservation of embryonic cells and gametes as a poultry biodiversity preservation method

A report of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) from 2000 claims that 9% of the global farm animal population is in a critical condition and 39% is threatened with extinction. Production efficiency, exploitation and conservation of animal genetic resources are crucial not only for the global economy, but also for the environment. As many as 30% of poultry breeds are threatened with extinction and 9% have already gone extinct. To preserve the genetic resources in situ methods are used, however, they need to be supported by an ex situ strategy. This includes the storage of genetic material in liquid nitrogen under a deep freeze. This process can be performed by using electronically-controlled programs or vitrification. Data shows that usage of electronically-controlled programs leads increases cell viability. A good technique of cell culture and freezing methods will give a broad perspective for unlimited storage of genetic recourses, which in the future can be useful for the restoration of extinct species/breeds.