A method for multiple sampling mouse sperm in vivo†.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Animal Models in Research

Background:

• Mice are crucial animal models for studying human diseases.
• Current in vivo mouse sperm collection methods have significant limitations, including poor reliability, high mortality, and labor intensity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel, minimally invasive technique for in vivo mouse sperm collection.
• To address the limitations of existing sperm recovery methods in mice.
• To facilitate long-term and serial studies of sperm characteristics in vivo.

Main Methods:

• A new technique involving direct puncture of the epididymis for in vivo sperm collection in mice.
• Evaluation of the technique's safety, reliability, and impact on animal fertility.

Main Results:

• The described method is easy, safe, and reliable for in vivo sperm collection.
• Animals retain fertility after sperm collection, allowing for serial sampling.
• The technique supports long-term and time-course experiments without compromising the in vivo spermatogenic niche.

Conclusions:

• This novel epididymal puncture technique offers a powerful research tool for studying spermatozoa.
• It overcomes critical limitations of existing methods, enhancing the utility of mice in reproductive biology and biomedical research.
• Enables longitudinal studies of sperm characteristics in vivo.