Week 5: Importance of Reproductive Biology and Cryopreservation Technologies in Conservation

This week we had the opportunity to learn about and get hands-on experience with reproductive biology and cryopreservation technologies. Reproductive and cryopreservation technologies play a pivotal role in conservation efforts aimed at preserving endangered species and biodiversity. These innovative technologies offer us a way to protect genetic diversity, mitigate the risk of extinction, and support the long-term sustainability of ecosystems.

One of the primary benefits of reproductive technologies in conservation is their ability to overcome challenges associated with low population numbers and reproductive difficulties in endangered species. For example, in cases where individuals are unable to breed naturally due to factors such as infertility or habitat fragmentation, assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization can be used to facilitate reproduction.

Cryopreservation, the freezing of reproductive material such as sperm, eggs, and embryos, further enhances conservation efforts by providing a way to store genetic materials for future use. This is particularly valuable for species that are difficult to breed in captive settings or that face threats in the wild. Cryobanked samples serve as a genetic reservoir, ensuring that valuable genetic diversity is preserved even if the species becomes extinct in the wild.

In the lab, we tried cryopreservation hands-on. On the first day, we were

able to obtain our sperm samples and assess their motility when they were fresh under a microscope. We then conducted an experiment and different groups were given different cryoprotectants. A cryoprotectant is placed in the sample to prevent damage to the cells. Once the cryoprotectants were added to the samples we froze them in liquid nitrogen. On the second day, we thawed them and assessed sperm motility again where we were able to determine which cryoprotectant was better. Lastly, we stained the sperm cells to determine if the cells were still properly intact which is what you see in the picture.

Reproductive and cryopreservation technologies offer a practical solution for managing captive populations and endangered species. By carefully managing breeding programs and genetic diversity through techniques such as artificial insemination and embryo transfer, conservationists can optimize reproductive outcomes and minimize the risk of inbreeding depression. This approach helps to maintain healthy populations in captivity and strengthens the resilience of species to environmental challenges.