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Principal Investigator: Dr. Alexander Travis
Contact Information: E-mail: - Phone: 256-5613
Sponsor: Morris Animal Foundation
Grant Number: D04ZO-123
Title: Optimization of Testis Xenografting for the Preservation of
Rare/Endangered Cats
Annual Direct Cost: $36,600
Project Period: 10/1/04-9/30/06
Loss of genetic diversity due to infertility or the premature death of valuable individuals is a significant problem in the conservation of rare/endangered species of cat. Attempts to overcome this loss of genetic information in males have focused on freezing sperm; however, sperm cannot be collected from young males prior to reproductive maturity. Unlike sperm, spermatogonial stem cells are present in the testes of male animals from the time of birth. As stem cells, spermatogonia have the ability to replenish their own populations while concurrently producing cells that will differentiate into sperm. We propose to utilize these stem cells to produce mature cat sperm through the technique of "testis xenografting." This technique involves the placement of small pieces of testicular tissue under the skin of immunodeficient mice, and has successfully produced sperm from several other species. The objective of this study is to optimize the technique of testis xenografting in domestic cats as a model for all felids. First, we shall investigate whether the age of donor testis tissue affects the ability of xenografts to support spermatogenesis. If so, we shall test methods to increase the success of xenografts from aged animals. Second, we shall assess whether sperm produced from xenografts are normal in their appearance, structure, and ability to fertilize cat eggs. Third, we shall compare different methods of cryopreserving testicular tissue, so that this technique will have the maximum potential impact for conservation.
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