Recent advances in cooled-semen technology.

The research article presents recent advances in cooled-semen technology for horse breeding, discusses the impact of the stallion’s diet on semen quality, appropriate semen collection methods, processing techniques for maintaining semen quality during cooled-storage, and effective low-cost shipping methods using Styrofoam boxes.

Stallion Impact on Semen Quality

• The study highlights that the stallion has significant influence on the quality and fertility of the cooled-stored semen. This may likely be related to genetic and health factors of the individual stallion.

Dietary Supplements for Improving Semen Quality

• The researchers note that supplementation of antioxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the diet of the stallion can enhance semen quality.
• However, there is a paucity of studies investigating this area specifically for horses, hence more research is needed.

Semen Collection & Handling Methods

• Proper semen collection and handling are crucial to preserving semen quality during cooled-storage.
• The study suggests minimal sexual stimulation for semen collection, resulting in a high sperm concentration, low content of seminal plasma, and minimal contamination with bacteria.

Semen Processing and Storage

• Milk-based semen extenders are most commonly used for semen processing and storage. The use of more defined extenders has improved the stability and reliability of extender quality.
• Semen is often centrifuged to reduce the seminal plasma content, however, this process recovers only about 75% of spermatozoa in the semen pellet.
• Improvements in the recovery rates can be achieved by using a “cushion technique”, which allows higher centrifugation force and duration, but it is not routinely used in cooled-semen technology.

Semen Storage and Shipping

• Following slow-cooling, the semen should be stored and shipped at a temperature of 5 degrees Celsius for maintaining motility, membrane integrity, and DNA integrity for up to 40 hours post-collection.
• Styrofoam boxes are recommended as an effective and affordable means of shipping, given their insulation properties which can help maintain semen quality.