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Low Cost AI With Frozen Ram

The aim of this project was to seek improvement of the function of frozen ram semen so that it can be effectively used in cheaper, less invasive cervical artificial insemination (AI) programs, to improve the current rate of conception using frozen thawed semen in cervical AI from 20% to 70%. The project has characterised important alterations to spermatozoa that result from ejaculation and cryopreservation. In doing this, it has provided a more complete context to understanding why epididymal, ejaculated and frozen thawed ram spermatozoa perform differently in vivo. In addition, studies have exploited important elements from seminal plasma to prevent injurious changes to ram spermatozoa during cryopreservation and improve their fertility. Further work is required to comprehensively understand many of the relationships described, and to develop a robust field solution to improve fertility following cervical deposition of frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa.

Project date

5 Jun 2013-30 Jun 2019

Principal investigator

Dr Simon de Graaf

Research organisations

The University of Sydney (USYD)

Project funded by

Multiple industries
Sheep & lamb Wool

Australian Wool Innovation (AWI)

Australian Wool Innovation is a not-for-profit enterprise that conducts research, development and marketing along the worldwide supply chain for Australian …

Multiple industries
Sheep & lamb Wool
  • Location

    Australia

  • Organisation type

    Research funding body

Logo for Australian Wool Innovation (AWI)

Focus areas

Industries

Sustainabilities

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