New sperm storage bags could save thousands of dollars

A Monash PhD student has developed a cheap and easy way to store sperm in aluminium foil bags.

The bags, which cost about eight cents each, could be a boon for organisations now using liquid nitrogen to store frozen sperm.

Working at Monash University's Institute of Reproduction and Development, Mr Mulyoto Pangestu has produced baby mice after pioneering an evaporative dryting technique tp preserve mouse sperm.

The evaporative dried sperm, which was stored for up to six months at room temperature in aluminium foil bags, have now yielded baby mice to the second generation.

Mr Pangestu's method could lead to significant savings in acquiring and maintaining nitrogen tanks and liquid nitrogen - currently it costs $6000 for one 34 litre tank and $1000 a year to maintain the liquid nitrogen.

Item provided courtesy of Monash University