Semen Quality Evaluation via Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating the quality of semen in livestock breeding are inadequate, as they are not predictive of in vivo fertility, are costly, complex, and do not allow for simultaneous characterization of molecular and structural features of spermatozoa, leading to inefficiencies in selecting high-quality breeding stock.
Innovation Solution
A method using mid-infrared spectroscopy to measure absorption spectra of semen samples, selecting specific wave numbers characteristic of the animal breed, and calculating a non-return rate to determine semen quality effectively and reliably across various species.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional semen quality evaluation methods (macroscopic and microscopic tests) are used, then the elimination of extremely poor quality semen is possible, but the prediction of in vivo fertility and identification of subfertile animals remains inconclusive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical evaluation methods (manual macroscopic and microscopic examinations) with infrared spectroscopy, an optical/chemical analysis system. This substitution enables the detection of molecular-level biochemical differences in seminal plasma that correlate with in vivo fertility, providing both reliable prediction and precise differentiation between males
Solution Approach 2:
The invention shifts the evaluation parameters from cellular/morphological characteristics (sperm count, motility, morphology) to biochemical molecular signatures (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates) detected through infrared absorption spectra. This parameter transformation reveals subtle variations in seminal plasma composition that accurately reflect fertilizing capacity and enable precise individual differentiation
2Reliability
If existing in vitro tests and multiparametric analysis techniques are used, then comprehensive sperm parameter assessment is achieved, but the cost and complexity of the testing increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple evaluation functions (assessment of sperm quality, seminal plasma composition, and in vivo fertility prediction) into a single infrared spectroscopy measurement. This merging eliminates the need for separate macroscopic, microscopic, and biochemical tests, significantly reducing procedural complexity while maintaining comprehensive assessment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The infrared spectroscopy system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it analyzes seminal plasma biochemical composition, evaluates sperm quality indicators, and predicts in vivo fertility outcomes. This multi-functionality replaces numerous specialized tests with a single versatile analytical platform, reducing both complexity and cost
3Reliability
If existing in vitro tests and multiparametric analysis techniques are used, then comprehensive sperm parameter assessment is achieved, but the cost of testing increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a cost-effective infrared spectroscopy approach that requires minimal sample preparation and uses disposable or easily cleaned measurement cells. This replaces expensive specialized equipment and reagents required by conventional multiparametric tests, achieving comprehensive assessment at lower cost
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and analyzes only the essential biochemical information from seminal plasma using infrared spectroscopy, focusing on key molecular signatures (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates) that correlate with fertility. This selective extraction approach provides comprehensive assessment without the need for costly analysis of all possible sperm parameters
4Reliability
If conventional semen evaluation methods are used, then the elimination of extremely poor quality semen is possible, but extensive testing is required to achieve satisfactory results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary biochemical characterization of seminal plasma using infrared spectroscopy before conducting more extensive fertility testing. This preliminary action provides early indicators of semen quality and fertility potential, allowing for rapid screening and reducing the need for time-consuming follow-up tests
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement of manual, time-intensive microscopic and biochemical tests with automated infrared spectroscopy significantly increases testing throughput. The system rapidly acquires and analyzes spectral data, providing reliable semen quality evaluation results much faster than conventional methods
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method provides a quick, cost-effective, and simple means to evaluate semen quality, accurately predicting fertility rates with high precision, applicable to all vertebrate species, reducing the need for extensive testing and improving breeding outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
a) measuring, by a spectrometer, at least one absorption spectrum of a sample of said semen irradiated under a radiation in the mid-infrared
Implementation Method 2
measuring, by a spectrometer, at least one absorption spectrum of a sample of said semen irradiated under a radiation in the mid-infrared
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4A~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining the sperm quality of vertebrate animals. Such a method comprises the following steps: Measuring at least one absorption spectrum of a sample of the sperm; selecting a number n of wave numbers σj (j∈[1;n]) characteristic of sperm from the animal's breed or species; on the basis of said at least one absorption spectrum, determining a value for the absorption Xj and/or a value for the second derivative of the absorption Xj" (j∈[1;n]) for each of said n wave numbers σj (j∈[1;n] ); calculating a non-return rate Y at a predefined number of days from the previously determined values for absorption Xj and/or the second derivative of absorption Xj".