An Update on Semen Physiology, Technologies, and Selection Techniques for the Advancement of In Vitro Equine Embryo Production: Section II.

Summary

# Editorial Summary The expanding use of assisted reproductive technologies in equine breeding demands a thorough understanding of how to select the best spermatozoa for in vitro embryo production, particularly for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) procedures. Orsolini and colleagues conducted a comprehensive review of contemporary semen selection techniques, examining both established methods for assessing sperm quality and emerging sex-sorting technologies, whilst evaluating their practical applicability to equine reproduction based on evidence from other species. Current selection approaches focus on identifying morphologically normal, motile spermatozoa with optimal membrane integrity and mitochondrial function, though the authors highlight that no single parameter reliably predicts fertilisation success in the horse. Sex-sorting methods—including flow cytometry and post-sorting insemination techniques—show promise for producing sex-biased offspring, though their application in equine ICSI remains largely experimental and requires further validation. For practitioners involved in breeding programmes, this review underscores that sperm selection should integrate multiple quality assessments rather than relying on conventional semen analysis alone, and that emerging technologies may offer future opportunities for enhanced embryo production rates and offspring sex selection, provided ongoing research continues to bridge the gap between laboratory capability and field application in equines.

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Key Findings

• •Review synthesizes current semen selection techniques for equine ICSI and in vitro embryo production
• •Examines sperm sorting technologies and their efficacy across multiple species
• •Assesses relevance and future applications of novel semen selection methods for equine assisted reproductive technologies

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