Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for processing sperm cells to accomplish preservation for future use while minimizing the adverse effects of such preservation. Sperm cells may be collected from a male animal and subjected to a first preservation step, including potentially a first cryopreservation step. Preserved sperm may then be revived, including potentially by thawing, and treated by any of various processing steps to mitigate the adverse effects of preservation. Treated sperm may then be subjected to a second preservation step, including potentially a second cryopreservation step, perhaps enabling a delayed use of the sperm at a future time.

Abstract: Semen and sperm cell processing and preservation systems, and methods of producing a mammal and methods of producing mammalian embryos are disclosed. The present invention is directed to sperm cell preservation, fertilization, and insemination, maintaining or enhancing sperm quality and addressing one or more sperm cell characteristics, such as viability, motility, functionality, fertilization rates, and pregnancy rates. Further, sperm cell characteristics may be addressed within the context of various collection, handling, separation, storage, transportation, usage, fertilization, or insemination techniques.