Abstract: A sperm solution including arabinogalactan is provided which is useful for separating the motile sperm, to produce sperm samples which are suitable for use in a variety of diagnostic and research applications. In one embodiment, the solution includes an effective amount of arabinogalactan to permit washing or separation of the sperm, while maintaining sperm viability during the washing or separation procedure. Using the improved sperm wash, non-sperm substances that are capable of having a detrimental effect on sperm viability, such as seminal plasma, white blood cells, red blood cells, freezing extender agents, sperm debris, and media components, can be removed from the sperm sample. The inclusion of arabinogalactan in the solution has a protective effect on sperm in a sperm sample during processing. In a preferred embodiment, the arabinogalactan is ultrarefined.

Abstract: Sperm, oocyte, and embryo survival and function is improved in vivo or in vitro by the use of a polysaccharide containing arabinose, galactose and/or hexuronic acid. In particular, a nonspermicidal lubricant containing such a polysaccharide (e.g., gum arabic, pectin, or galacturonic acid) increases the fertilization potential of the sperm during coitus, artificial insemination or sperm collection. Similarly, a freezing medium containing a polysaccharide containing arabinose, galactose and/or hexuronic acid enhances sperm, oocyte, or embryo viability.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for cryopreserving somatic cells are provided. In one embodiment, a cell cryopreservation medium is provided which includes an effective amount of arabinogalactan to maintain the viability of cells upon freezing, storage and thawing. The cells may be cooled or frozen during storage to a temperature about or below 4.degree. C., for example, to about -196.degree. C. In one preferred embodiment, ultrarefined arabinogalactan is provided in the cryopreservation medium, optionally in combination with a second cryopreservation agent, such as dimethyl sulfoxide. The medium can be used for the cryopreservation of a wide variety of different cell types from different sources. For example, mammalian cells, including porcine, canine, human, equine, rodent and bovine cells can be cryopreserved in the medium. The presence of arabinogalactan in the medium protects the viability of cells in the medium during the process of freezing, storage and thawing.

Abstract: A sperm solution including arabinogalactan is provided which is useful for separating the motile sperm, to produce sperm samples which are suitable for use in a variety of diagnostic and research applications. In one embodiment, the solution includes an effective amount of arabinogalactan to permit washing or separation of the sperm, while maintaining sperm viability during the washing or separation procedure. Using the improved sperm wash, non-sperm substances that are capable of having a detrimental effect on sperm viability, such as seminal plasma, white blood cells, red blood cells, freezing extender agents, sperm debris, and media components, can be removed from the sperm sample. The inclusion of arabinogalactan in the solution has a protective effect on sperm in a sperm sample during processing. In a preferred embodiment, the arabinogalactan is ultrarefined.