Artificial insemination with frozen-thawed boar sperm.

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Reproductive Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Artificial insemination (AI) with cryopreserved boar semen is not standard practice.
• Its application is limited to specific scenarios like genetic material preservation, disaster preparedness, long-distance transport, and sex-sorted sperm use.
• Cryoinjury during freeze-thawing reduces sperm fertilization capacity compared to liquid-stored semen.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of AI using cryopreserved boar sperm.
• To summarize factors influencing cryopreservation success and identify biomarkers for cryodamage sensitivity.
• To discuss the relevance of different AI techniques for frozen-thawed semen and the role of additives.

Main Methods:

• Review of factors affecting boar sperm cryopreservation (sperm selection, holding time, cryoprotectants, freeze-thaw rates).
• Analysis of three AI techniques: conventional (intracervical), intrauterine, and deep intrauterine.
• Evaluation of additives in freezing and thawing media for maintaining/improving sperm quality.

Main Results:

• Cryopreservation success is influenced by pre-during-post freeze-thaw factors.
• Biomarkers are being identified to predict sperm sensitivity to cryodamage.
• Additives and specific AI techniques can enhance the fertility of frozen-thawed boar sperm.

Conclusions:

• AI with frozen-thawed boar sperm can yield reasonable fertility.
• Key factors for success include using freezable ejaculates, specific additives, and appropriate AI techniques.
• Optimizing cryopreservation protocols and AI methods is crucial for effective use of frozen boar semen.