Applications of Modern Biotechnologies to Improve Reproductive Efficiency in Animals
A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Mammals".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 28 February 2026 | Viewed by 34
Special Issue Editors
2. Department of Veterinary Sciences Research Centre, Vasco da Gama University School, Lordemão University Campus, 3020-210 Coimbra, Portugal
3. CIISA, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Av. da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
Interests: physiology; reproduction; assisted reproductive technologies; animal genetic resources characterization and conservation; gametes and embryo metabolism; cryobiology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Interests: semen analysis; semen preservation; semen evaluation; vitrification; sperm fertility; cryopreservation; theriogenology; assisted reproductive techniques; assisted reproduction
Interests: animal reproduction; neurodegenerative diseases; mitochondria and animal nutrition
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Stress represents a significant biological challenge across animal species, with profound implications for reproductive success and population dynamics. The physiological response to stress involves a cascade of hormonal and molecular changes encompassing both the neuroendocrine and the immune systems. Stress, whether from oxidative damage, heat exposure, or behavioral factors, can significantly reshape the epigenome, leading to lasting alterations in gene expression and physiological responses. These changes occur through mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and the regulation of non-coding RNAs, all of which play crucial roles in how animals adapt to stress.
Modern animal production systems introduce unique stressors through intensive management practices, while wildlife populations face increasing challenges from habitat fragmentation, climate change, and human disturbances. Domestic animals experience reproductive impairments due to housing conditions, social hierarchies, and handling procedures, while conservation efforts for endangered species must address how anthropogenic stressors compromise reproductive potential. This Special Issue aims to compile current research examining stress’ impacts on reproduction across diverse animal species, from livestock and companion animals to wildlife. We welcome studies investigating physiological mechanisms, behavioral manifestations, welfare implications, management interventions, and conservation applications.
Dr. Rosa Maria Lino Neto Pereira
Dr. Sonia Macedo
Dr. Daniela Franco da Silva
Dr. Vera Pessoa
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.
Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Animals is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.
Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 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.
Keywords
- reproductive success
- population dynamics
- neuroendocrine response
- animal stress
- biotechnology
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