Abstract: There is disclosed a method of filtering semen comprising admixing Sephadex beads of about 40 to 120 microns in diameter in the column of a semen filtering device having openings at both ends with a media, permitting the beads to hydrate, expand, and settle in the column to form a multi-layer filter having passages of predetermined sizes therebetween permitting passage therethrough of motile spermatozoa, adding to the multi-layer filter a washed semen specimen suspended in a liquid media suitable for use with semen, and recovering the semen that pass through the filter.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a layering apparatus for the disposition of multiple fluids in sequence, into a receptacle, in a series of separate layers. The apparatus includes a tubular shaped column having an open upper end and a lower end having a base plate arranged thereacross. The base plate is arranged at an angle of between about 35.degree. to 60.degree. with respect to the longitudinal axis of the column. An annular flange is arranged about the upper end of the column to permit the column to be supported by an upper edge of a receptacle in which the column is disposed. An opening is arranged in the column adjacent the base plate, to permit the even, controlled drainage of fluid into a receptacle after receipt of that fluid in the upper end of the column.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sterile, disposable, compartmentalized Zavos swim-up column for the swimming-up of spermatozoa, at desired levels of dilution in a media, and a swimming down of spermatozoa into compartments within the column, as well as to a method for the harvesting of those semen samples having particular sperm morphology, motility, progressive motility, speed, sperm concentration, fertilization potential, and a sex ratio. The device comprises a hollow, vertically supported column, having a closed lower end, and an open upper end. A lowermost or first conical member is arranged at the lowermost end of the column, the lowermost conical member having a lowermost periphery in sealing engagement with the bottom of the column. The first conical member has inclined side walls and a truncated uppermost portion defining a peripheral edge which is open within into the column.

Abstract: A method for separating male and female determining spermatozoa includes the initial step of exposing freshly ejaculated spermatozoa in a substantially protein free diluent to an excess concentration of a monoclonal antibody directed against H-Y antigen that binds substantially exclusively with male determining spermatozoa. The method continues with the suspending of the exposed spermatozoa together with a conjugate of (1) an immunoglobulin G antibody that binds substantially exclusively to the monoclonal antibody and (2) an immunoabsorbant substrate in a substantially protein free diluent. This forms a conjugate/spermatozoa preparation. The method concludes with the recovering of the separated male and female determining spermatozoa.