Sperm Preservation and Regulation of Reproductive Behavior in Livestock

Dear Colleagues,

Reproductive technologies play a critical role in improving reproductive efficiency and addressing infertility challenges in livestock production systems. One of the cornerstones of these technologies is sperm preservation, which enables the long-term use of germplasm from genetically superior males. Ongoing research has led to the refinement of preservation techniques, including the incorporation of advanced cryoprotectants, antimicrobial agents, antioxidants, and other extender components aimed at enhancing sperm viability, protecting against cold shock and preserving fertilization potential.

In addition, the modulation of reproductive behavior is of strategic importance in optimizing assisted reproductive techniques. A thorough understanding of the neural and hormonal regulation of sexual behavior is essential for designing effective interventions. While hormonal treatments remain within common usage, emerging alternatives such as nutritional supplementation, pharmacological agents, and targeted management strategies offer promising avenues for modulating reproductive behavior in a more sustainable and species-specific manner.

This Special Issue aims to showcase the latest scientific advances in two closely interconnected areas: sperm preservation and the regulation of reproductive behavior in livestock species. We welcome submissions that address the physiological and molecular responses of sperm cells to various preservation techniques, including, but not limited to, cooling, freezing, vitrification, and other emerging cryobiological methods. We also invite contributions that explore the mechanisms underlying reproductive behavior, with a focus on practical applications for improving semen collection efficiency, enhancing natural mating, or controlling undesired sexual behaviors when required by production contexts.

To support the development of more efficient and economically viable reproductive programs, this Special Issue is particularly interested in cutting-edge research that bridges basic science with applied innovations. We encourage studies that contribute to improving fertilization success rates, optimizing breeding strategies, and advancing reproductive biotechnology.

We invite original research articles, short communications, reviews, and opinion pieces from a wide range of scientific disciplines, including, but not limited to, biology, chemistry, veterinary science, animal science, biotechnology, and engineering. Interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches are especially valued, particularly those involving the following:

• Nanotechnology applied to reproductive processes;
• Advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., lab-on-a-chip systems);
• Novel approaches to sperm storage and cryopreservation;
• Digital technologies for monitoring and analyzing reproductive behavior.

By bringing together diverse perspectives and methodologies, this Special Issue aims to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of reproductive science in livestock species.

We look forward to receiving your valuable contributions.

Prof. Dr. Carlos C Pérez Marín
Prof. Dr. Luis Ángel Quíntela
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• semen
• sperm preservation techniques
• fertilization
• sperm quality
• reproductive management
• sexual behavior
• natural mating
• precision livestock technologies
• nanotechnology