Small Animal Reproduction and the Application of Reproductive Biotechnologies

Dear Colleagues,

Reproduction is crucial for the existence and survival of a species. Successful animal breeding depends on the reliable reproductive efficiency of individual animals. The development of appropriate techniques for the preservation and storage of semen enables better use of high-value animals. The preservation of semen and development of animal genetic material present methods of maximizing the availability of reproductive material. In the last few decades, interest in dogs and cats and other small animals has grown significantly. Therefore, the demand for the use of assisted reproductive techniques in breeding these species has also increased. Implementing new technologies requires extensive knowledge and further research on gamete storage techniques and handling procedures. This is crucial for the breeding of rare breeds of dogs, cats, and other small animals and endangered species. The use of advanced reproductive technologies opens up new possibilities in gamete storage, sexing, in vitro culture, embryo transfer technology, embryo cryopreservation, embryo sexing, somatic cell nuclear transfer, and stem cell technology for improving reproductive performance in various small animal species. We invite all specialists in the physiology and pathology of the male and female reproductive systems of small animals to contribute to this Special Issue. Clinical practitioners of veterinary obstetrics, gynecology, neonatology, and andrology are also encouraged to participate. Papers which shed light on the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in different small animal reproduction processes are welcome.

Topics of interest include (but are not limited to) the following: i) andrology problems: reproductive health, semen collection and handling, semen analysis, semen storage, and sexing; ii) female reproductive issues: oocyte collection, ovum pick up, and oocyte handling and storage, iii) embryo manipulation and technology; iv) in vitro maturation, fertilization, and culture; v) omics methods for reproductive material evaluation and the search for biomarkers.

We look forward to receiving your contributions. Both original research papers and review articles are welcome.

Dr. Marzena Mogielnicka-Brzozowska
Guest Editor

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• small animals
• reproduction
• andrology
• fertilization
• sperm
• oocyte
• embryos
• biotechnology