Abstract: The present invention includes apparatuses for artificially inseminating animals which prevents contaminants from entering the opening at the end of an insemination sheath during insertion through the reproductive tract of an animal. A thin protective cover or membrane is provided at the tip of the sheath to seal it, the membrane being designed to rupture under the pressure from the seminal fluid being applied by the plunger used to eject the semen from the insemination gun. The protective cover can be an integrated portion of the sheath itself, or a material applied to the tip of the sheath. The protective cover is minimal in size as to not increase the diameter of the artificial insemination device so that there is no loss in tactile sensitivity to the breeder who must maneuver the invention through the animal's reproductive tract.

Abstract: Processes for selectively enriching a population of viable sperm cells with respect to a characteristic without physically sorting the cells are disclosed. The cells contained in such an enriched population benefit from the advantage of not being subjected to a sorting process. Processes of inseminating a female mammal and processes of forming a sperm dispersion utilizing the processes of selectively enriching a population of viable sperm cells are also disclosed.

Abstract: Manual techniques for monitoring animal ovulation cycle have been used commercially to determine the best time to breed animals. Techniques using heat as an indicator for ovulation do not always correspond to ovulation. The present invention provides methods, apparatus, and kits for monitoring and predicting ovulation using an automated hand-held device, incorporating a computer and probe for detecting physical changes in the animal body fluid. Changes in electrolyte levels are detected as alterations in resistance which corresponds to specific intervals in the ovulation cycle. The present invention provides a rapid, low cost means for monitoring mammalian ovulation cycles and a tool for use in artificial insemination, especially in assessing large populations of animals.

Abstract: Described are methods for selecting a domestic animal having desired genotypic properties, the methods comprising testing the animal for the presence of a parentally imprinted quantitative trait locus (QTL). The invention further relates to the use of an isolated and/or recombinant nucleic acid comprising a QTL or functional fragment derived therefrom to select a breeding animal or animal destined for slaughter having desired genotypic or potential phenotypic properties. In particular, the properties are related to muscle mass, fat deposition, sow prolificacy, and/or sow longevity.

Abstract: A composition and method is provided to modify sperm fertility and sex ratio of mammalian offspring. The composition includes an amount of a class of compounds of phenoxazine or phenothiazine, having the structure (see FIG. 1) and ionic derivatives thereof, wherein R1 is H, a lower alkyl group or N (R3)2, R2 is N, S, O, and R3 is H or a lower alkyl group. A second component of the composition is an amount of an electron transfer agent capable of oxidizing a reduced cofactor (NADPH or NADH). A third component of the composition is an amount of a hexose sugar and/or the phosphorylated esters of such. When mixed with living sperm prior to or at the time of insemination, the composition results in modified rates of conception and an alteration of birth sex ratio in mammal species.

Abstract: A composition and method is provided for modifying sperm fertility in mammals for the purpose of biasing the gender in favor of male offspring. The composition includes an amount of a class of compounds of phenoxazine or phenothiazine, having the structure (FIG. 1) and ionic derivatives thereof, wherein R1 is H, a lower alkyl group or N (R3)2, R2 is N, S, O, and R3 is H or a lower alkyl group. A second component of the composition is an amount of a hexose sugar or the phosphorylated hexose esters of such. When mixed with living sperm prior to or at the time of insemination, the composition results in modified rates of conception and an alteration of the birth sex ratio mammals.

Abstract: Microfluidic systems and methods. A microfluidic device for in vitro fertilization comprises a substrate and a plurality of microchannels disposed in the substrate, including an inlet of at least two of the plurality of microchannels arranged on the substrate to align with a fluid-handling device. Another microfluidic system for assaying a plurality of cells comprises a substrate and a plurality of microfluidic channels comprising a source channel, a sink channel, and a cell chamber. An insert for a microfluidic system comprises a substrate configured to be inserted into a dish and a plurality of microscale wells disposed in the substrate. A microfluidic channel comprises a substrate and at least one microchannel having an open inlet, an open outlet, a channel, and an opening in the substrate disposed over a portion of the channel.

Abstract: The present invention concerns the use of compositions and methods of regulating or evaluating fertility in an animal, in particular a mammal. In various embodiments of the invention, methods of contraception include inhibiting proteasome activity of a gamete, in particular spermatozoon. Proteasomal activity may be inhibited in vitro or in vivo. Inhibitors of the proteasome pathway include, but are not limited to small molecules, peptides, polypeptides (e.g., antibodies and the like) and affinity reagents that bind various components of the proteasome pathway (e.g., aptamers, etc.). In some embodiments, the activity of the proteasome pathway or the activity of a component in the proteasome pathway is inhibited by antibodies that bind and inhibit one or more components of the proteasome pathway.

Abstract: The subject of the present invention is in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and relates to an apparatus with which embryo transfer can be standardised and which, in comparison with the currently used technique, may possibly result in higher pregnancy rates. This is realised by using an apparatus with which it is possible to precisely and reproducibly aspirate one or two embryos from a Petri dish and to transfer them to the uterus, to a particular distance from the fundus. It has been shown that the chance of pregnancy is best if the distance between the embryo and the fundus is 1-2 cm.

Abstract: A method for breeding bovines, especially a method for breeding dairy and beef cattle without use of heat detection prior to insemination or embryo implantation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a system for producing a mammalian pre-embryo and a stem cell having a better quality than prior art methods. The system comprises means for obtaining a mammalian oocyte, and means for obtaining a mammalian spermatozoa, and an apparatus having at least two separate air-tight chambers, for which the oxygen tension of one chamber may be changed independent of the oxygen tension of the other chamber, said at least two separate air-tight chambers constitute a main chamber and at least one residence chamber.

Abstract: Non-surgical artificial insemination is achieved for sexed and unsexed equines in a commercially practical manner and with dosages of insemination sperm which were not previously thought to be practical for commercial implementation. Practical and field usable techniques for insemination are presented as well as techniques which offer success ratios at level comparable to the existing routine, high dosage unsexed artificial insemination techniques in equines. Improved insemination and sorting systems particularly adapted to use for sex-selected sperm are disclosed.

Abstract: A reduced dose inseminate and method for producing and using such reduced dose inseminate to fertilize the eggs of a female animal by artificial insemination with fewer sperm cells than compared with conventional dose inseminates.

Abstract: Artificial insemination of female animals and in vitro fertilization of oocytes with fresh or frozen-thawed semen have been applied to the reproduction of animals. According to the traditional theory and conventional procedures, a great number of sperm cells are needed to ensure a successful fertilization.

Abstract: Disclosed are arrays of nucleic acid molecules, kits, methods of genotyping and marker assisted bovine breeding methods using SNPs on genes of the bovine interferon tau signaling pathway for improved bovine fertilization rate, or embryo survival, or both.

Abstract: A container assembly comprises a vessel for containing a biological medium, gametes and/or one or more embryo(s). The vessel has a CO2 permeable seal and a closure valve device for selective access. A buffer chamber for a CO2 enriched atmosphere cooperates with the vessel and is in communication with the CO2 permeable wall. Such a container assembly is particularly adapted for intravaginal use in which case the permeable seal prevents ingress of vaginal secretions. The buffer chamber mediates the aqueous pH in the vessel after the container assembly is removed from a CO2 enriched environment.

Abstract: The invention discloses an improved insemination catheter for artificial insemination in animals, characterized in which a center orifice disposed at the rear end of the nozzle for connecting the catheter tube is a blind orifice, and a diversion slit is configured between and connecting the front end of center orifice and the front end of nozzle, the diversion slit being opened when semen in the catheter tube is being squeezed and closed when semen in the catheter tube is not being squeezed. As such, the front end of the nozzle would be closed when it is inserted along with the catheter tube into the vaginal orifice of female animal body during artificial insemination such that contaminants from outside the female animal body or lubricant used will not flow into the center orifice of the nozzle, thereby enhancing the safety of artificial insemination.

Abstract: An oocyte and embryo-positioning apparatus enables a plurality of oocytes, embryos or other cell specimens to be held and positioned for injection therein of fluid molecular reagents such as DNA, RNA, protein, cells, spermatozoa and cells; and removal of cells, fragments of cells, cytoplasm, nuclei and cellular organelles. The oocytes and embryos are kept separate from each other in open marked or unmarked well-compartments that are located in the culture container. Each well-compartment comprises one or more finger like structures that can position one oocyte or one embryo. The lanes between the digits of the fingers may be sloped allowing the oocytes or embryo to position at the narrowest and lowest point of the compartment. The method and oocytes and embryo-positioning apparatus of this invention includes a culturing container, such as a Petrie dish, in which the oocytes and embryos are held for micromanipulation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of treatment of collagenous connective tissue removed from a donor for implant into a recipient which is re-habited or re-colonized by host cells without an immune rejection and inflammatory reaction. After removal from the donor the tissue is trimmed and thereafter soaked in a cold stabilizing solution having a temperature range of 4 to 10 degrees centigrade. The tissue is then soaked at a predetermined temperature in a polyglycol, salt, hydrogen peroxide, and phosphate buffer first solution of predetermined quantities and concentrations and of sufficient ionic strength to permit ground substances to dissociate such that the collagen fibers remain stable. The tissue is then soaked in an alcohol and water solution at a predetermined temperature for a sufficient period of time to remove the residue of the first solution.

Abstract: An in vitro culture and/or fertilization medium containing N-acetylcysteine amide (NAC amide) reduces or prevents oxidative stress and free radical formation that contribute to the cellular damage and eventual demise of sperm, oocytes and embryos that are cultured, fertilized and maintained in vitro. The NAC amide-containing medium composition for in vitro culture and fertilization is suitable for use in the culture of oocytes, in the culture and development of early embryos, in the preparation or culture of sperm, and in the pre-treatment of oocytes or sperm. The NAC amide-containing composition supports the growth of viable embryos until blastocyst stage.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aptamer or pool of aptamers that bind(s) to a target molecule on the surface of a mammalian sperm cell and a method for producing the aptamers. The method comprises contacting a collection of different nucleic acid molecules with the target molecule under conditions favorable for binding between at least one of the nucleic acid molecules and the target molecule, to form at least one complex comprising the nucleic acid molecule bound to the target molecule, wherein each of the nucleic acid molecules comprises at least one segment of randomized nucleotide sequences. The complexes are then separated from the unbound nucleic acid molecules and unbound target molecules, and the bound nucleic acid molecule is recovered from the separated complex. The aptamers are used to separate sperm cells based upon sperm cell qualities, such as whether the cells contain X chromosomes or Y chromosomes.

Abstract: Intracytoplasmic sperm injection utilizing sex-selected equine spermatozoa to obtain viable sex selected embryos transferable to a recipient female equine mammal to obtain sex selected foals.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel methods of maintaining genetic stability of non-human animal inbred strains. In the methods, pedigree-tracked cryopreserved embryos or gametes or pre-gametes derived from a foundation colony are produced and used to re-establish the foundation colony at appropriate intervals.

Abstract: Methods are provided for enhancing viability comprising administering at least one inhibitor of p53 or a p53-associated pathway to one or more of the following: the embryo, oocytes, sperm, a femme animal or a male animal.

Abstract: A composition and method is provided to modify sperm fertility and sex ratio of mammalian offspring. The composition includes an amount of a class of compounds of phenoxazine or phenothiazine, having the structure (see FIG. 1) and ionic derivatives thereof, wherein R1 is H, a lower alkyl group or N(R3)2, R2 is N, S, O, and R3 is H or a lower alkyl group. A second component of the composition is an amount of an electron transfer agent capable of oxidizing a reduced cofactor (NADPH or NADH). A third component of the composition is an amount of a hexose sugar and/or the phosphorylated esters of such. When mixed with living sperm prior to or at the time of insemination, the composition results in modified rates of conception and an alteration of birth sex ratio in mammal species.

Abstract: A composition and method is provided for modifying sperm fertility in mammals for the purpose of biasing the gender in favor of male offspring. The composition includes an amount of a class of compounds of phenoxazine or phenothiazine, having the structure (FIG. 1) and ionic derivatives thereof, wherein R1 is H, a lower alkyl group or N(R3)2, R2 is N, S, O, and R3 is H or a lower alkyl group. A second component of the composition is an amount of a hexose sugar or the phosphorylated hexose esters of such. When mixed with living sperm prior to or at the time of insemination, the composition results in modified rates of conception and an alteration of the birth sex ratio mammals.

Abstract: A semen extender composition is provided. The semen extender composition includes a sperm cell protecting amount of phospholipid, an effective amount of surfactant to reduce ice crystal formation during freezing of the composition; a carbohydrate, and a biological buffer to provide a semen extender use solution having a pH of between about 6.9 and about 7.5, and wherein the use solution exhibits an osmolality of about 250 mOsM to about 350 mOsM. Methods for manufacturing and using a semen extender composition are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to biopolymer particles for preservation of spermatozoa, wherein the spermatozoa are embedded within the biopolymer particle. The present invention also regards a method for preservation, storage and controlled delivery/release of spermatozoa, and the use of the biopolymer particles according to the present invention in breeding.

Abstract: Instrument for intra-uterine transfer by the natural vagino-uterine route, including a catheter (6) including a tube carrying at one end a transfer head (8), said tube having passing through it a passage for feeding substances, said transfer head (8) being provided with at least one orifice for substances to be transferred to pass through; characterized in that said transfer head (8) has an oblong shape having a general orientation in line with that of said tube, with a varying cross section including at least two separate rounded lateral enlargements (31, 32), no portion of said head (8) being more prominent laterally than said two enlargements (31, 32).

Abstract: The invention features a method of identifying oocytes with a risk of reproductive failure and/or aneuploidy based on a telomere length assay.

Abstract: A work station comprises a surface (11) for supporting a sample (12); a temperature controller for controlling the temperature of the surface; and apparatus (16) for communicating with a memory tag via a wireless electromagnetic link. The apparatus is located beneath the surface in order to communicate with a memory tag on or over the surface. A soft magnetic member is provided. The temperature controller comprises a chamber containing a liquid; a pump for pumping the liquid into the chamber; an inlet channel between the pump and the chamber; and an inlet weir extending across the inlet channel so as to impede the flow of liquid through the inlet channel into the main chamber. The work station is of particular use in the monitoring of samples being used in in-vitro fertilisation procedures.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a non-human animal model for a hereditary autosomal dominant disease. The non-human animal model expresses at least one phenotype associated with the disease and is obtained by a genetic determinant. The invention also relates to sperm cells and embryos comprising the genetic determinant for an autosomal dominant disease. Furthermore, methods for producing the non-human animal model, sperm cell, and embryos are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aptamer or pool of aptamers (nucleic acid sequences) that bind(s) to a target molecule on the surface, accessible from the surface or inside of a mammalian sperm cell and a method for producing the aptamers. The method comprises contacting a collection of different nucleic acid molecules with the target molecule under conditions favorable for binding between at least one of the nucleic acid molecules and the target molecule, to form at least one complex comprising the nucleic acid molecule bound to the target molecule, wherein each of the nucleic acid molecules comprises at least one segment of randomized nucleotide sequences. The complexes are then separated from the unbound nucleic acid molecules and unbound target molecules, and the bound nucleic acid molecule is recovered from the separated complex. The aptamers are used to separate sperm cells based upon sperm cell qualities, such as whether the cells contain X chromosomes or Y chromosomes.

Abstract: Improved insemination systems particularly adapted to use for sex-selected sperm sorting include systems which achieve superovulation and then multiple embryo production with sexed embryos. These systems combine with other techniques, including techniques for enhanced sheath fluid and other strategies which minimize stress on the sperm cells, and, potentially, a 2.9 percent sodium citrate sheath solution for bovine species and a hepes bovine gamete media for equine species. Improved collection systems and techniques for the process are described so that commercial application of sperms samples as well as the resulting animals may be achieved.

Abstract: Single nucleotide polymorphic site at position 11646 of the bovine FGF2 gene is associated with improved fertilization rate and/or improved embryo survival rate, as well as improved milk production. Also disclosed are nucleic acid molecules, kits, methods of genotyping and marker assisted bovine breeding methods.

Abstract: The recoverable intra-uterine system comprises a housing capable of containing one or a plurality of elements selected from among the group comprising an embryo, male and/or female gametes, a fertilized oocyte, and unfertilized ovum and a combination of these elements, the housing having along an axis a distal end and a proximal end, and a device for holding the recoverable intra-uterine device in the uterus. The holding device is arranged at the proximal end of the housing and includes at least one holding arm in the uterine cavity capable of taking at least two positions: —one free position in which at least one holding arm is separated from the axis; and —a retracted position in which at least one holding arm is substantially parallel to the axis. Use in medically assisted reproduction techniques.

Abstract: In the preferred embodiment, bovine semen is mixed with a “suitable solution” to form an insemination medium which is injected into the reproductive organs of a female bovine to flood the uterine horns in a nonsurgical AI procedure. The invention includes an AI instrument having a disposable, single use pipette that may be used with this nonsurgical procedure. The AI instrument does not include a balloon and is referred to as “catheter free”. Preferably, the uterine horns are flooded concurrently, but in the alternative, they may be flooded sequentially.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a system for producing a mammalian pre-embryo and a stem cell having a better quality than prior art methods. The system comprises means for obtaining a mammalian oocyte, and means for obtaining a mammalian spermatozoa, and an apparatus having at least two separate air-tight chambers, for which the oxygen tension of one chamber may be changed independent of the oxygen tension of the other chamber, said at least two separate air-tight chambers constitute a main chamber and at least one residence chamber.

Abstract: A device for aspirating sample media into a pipette for use in a micro-manipulation procedure includes a ring member having an opening sized for receiving a digit of an operator, and an aspirating bulb engaged with the ring member. The aspirating bulb has an open end sized for receiving an end of the pipette, and includes a compressible chamber capable of creating a suction force suitable for aspirating the sample media into the pipette. The aspirating bulb is oriented along the ring member such that the chamber is compressible by a digit on the same hand of the operator as the digit receivable in the ring member.

Abstract: A single nucleotide polymorphic site at position 10793 of the bovine POU1F1 gene is associated with improved longevity and milk product traits. Disclosed are nucleic acid molecules, kits, methods of genotyping and marker assisted bovine breeding methods.

Abstract: The invention discloses an improved catheter for artificial insemination in animals, comprising primarily a simple improvement of the nozzle mounted at the front end of catheter. The nozzle is predefined on its peripheral surface with pores, channels, or indented texts or patterns of different shapes, which can be used to hold reagents, liquid medicine, ointment or lubricant for animals. As such, when the operator inserts the nozzle into the vagina of female animal body, the procedure achieves not only artificial insemination, but also other purposes, such as testing, experiment and treatment, thereby augmenting the usage and enhancing the efficiency of artificial insemination catheter.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for enhancing development of a preimplantation mammalian embryo and for increasing the live birth potential of an in vitro fertilized mammalian embryo are disclosed. An in vitro method of activating the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor ? (PPAR?) in a preimplantation mammalian embryo comprises culturing an embryo in an embryo culture medium, and upon or after commencement of expression of PPAR? in the cells of the embryo, activating the PPAR? by adding an amount of a PPAR? ligand to said medium effective to bind to PPAR? to deter apoptosis in the cells of the cultured embryo and/or increase proliferation of the cells of the cultured embryo.

Abstract: In the preferred embodiment, bovine semen is mixed with a suitable solution to form an insemination medium which is injected into the reproductive organs of a female bovine to flood the uterine horns in a nonsurgical AI procedure. The invention includes an AI instrument having a disposable, single use pipette that may be used with this nonsurgical procedure. The AI instrument does not include a balloon and is referred to as “catheter free”. Preferably, the uterine horns are flooded concurrently, but in the alternative, they may be flooded sequentially.

Abstract: The present invention includes apparatuses for artificially inseminating animals which prevents contaminants from entering the opening at the end of an insemination sheath during insertion through the reproductive tract of an animal. A thin protective cover or membrane is provided at the tip of the sheath to seal it, the membrane being designed to rupture under the pressure from the seminal fluid being applied by the plunger used to eject the semen from the insemination gun. The protective cover can be an integrated portion of the sheath itself, or a material applied to the tip of the sheath. The protective cover is minimal in size as to not increase the diameter of the artificial insemination device so that there is no loss in tactile sensitivity to the breeder who must maneuver the invention through the animal's reproductive tract.

Abstract: Described herein is a method of storing a biological sample, such as a sperm sample, in an elongated container for cryopreservation. Multiple volumes of biological sample may be placed in each elongated container such that each volume of sample is separated from its nearest neighbor by a separation gas. The present invention further relates to an apparatus and method for loading biological samples, such as sperm samples, into an elongated container for cryopreservation of the sample material. The apparatus and method employs drawing the sample into the elongated container such that individual sample volumes are interspaced by gaps of separation gas. This alternating pattern may be created by repeatedly contacting and removing the elongated container from the sample under suction pressure. The apparatus further incorporates the use of a computer to control the volume and number of aliquots as desired. A container according to such methods is also provided.

Abstract: An improved artificial insemination device with an inner catheter for animals is disclosed. The device is characterized by having a thin flexible tube and a positioning stop member installed respectively at the front end and rear end of an inner catheter that is movably inserted in the catheter tube. The thin flexible tube instantly extends forward from the front end of inner catheter when semen is squeezed into the inner catheter. Thus after the nozzle of catheter tube reaches the first cervical ring of the animal, the inner catheter only needs to extend inward a proper distance, and the semen, with the aid of squeeze force and the thin flexible tube advancing freely along the cervical tract, could be delivered to uterus smoothly, swiftly and accurately without causing trauma to the uterus. Also with the arrangement of the positioning stop member, the distance the inner catheter travels inward can be set.

Abstract: A conception cap includes a dome having a collapsible sidewall, an annular rim, and three or more, gripping flanges along the inner surface of the rim. The gripping flanges may effectively position and secure the cap over the cervix for the concentration of semen on the cervical os to effect fertilization independently or with the aid of biologically active agents. The cap may additionally include a handle extending from the annular rim at an angle.

Abstract: The present invention includes methods for artificially inseminating animals using an improved artificial insemination device that prevents contaminants from entering the opening at the end of an insemination sheath during insertion through the reproductive tract of an animal. A thin protective cover or membrane is provided at the tip of the sheath to seal it, the membrane being designed to rupture under the pressure from the seminal fluid being applied by the plunger used to eject the semen from the insemination gun. The protective cover can be an integrated portion of the sheath itself, or a material applied to the tip of the sheath. The protective cover is minimal in size as to not increase the diameter of the artificial insemination device so that there is no loss in tactile sensitivity to the breeder who must maneuver the invention through the animal's reproductive tract.

Abstract: An artificial micro-insemination device for animals is disclosed. The device has an elastic insemination sheath amassed in compressed state between the nozzle passage and the forward portion of center orifice of catheter tube, where the rear end of the elastic insemination sheath is secured to the front part of nozzle, characterized in which the catheter tube and nozzle are inserted into the uterus of animal with the nozzle positioned posterior to the first cervical ring, and by the pressure of semen dispenser squeezing in semen from the rear end of catheter tube, the extension member of the soft elastic insemination sheath instantaneously extend outward from the front part of nozzle and extends freely along the cervical tract to reach uterus, where coupled with uterine contraction, semen fluid squeezed into the extension member of insemination sheath is expelled into the uterus or the two ducts to uterine horns via the prearranged slits on the front part of extension member.

Abstract: An in vitro culture and/or fertilization medium containing N-acetylcysteine amide (NAC amide) reduces or prevents oxidative stress and free radical formation that contribute to the cellular damage and eventual demise of sperm, oocytes and embryos that are cultured, fertilized and maintained in vitro. The NAC amide-containing medium composition for in vitro culture and fertilization is suitable for use in the culture of oocytes, in the culture and development of early embryos, in the preparation or culture of sperm, and in the pre-treatment of oocytes or sperm. The NAC amide-containing composition supports the growth of viable embryos until blastocyst stage.