Research projects

The research project addresses a key and timely challenge in the conservation of farm animal genetic resources: the effective cryopreservation of boar semen from endangered indigenous European breeds. These breeds, including the Hungarian Large White pig, Mangalica and the Slovenian Krškopolje pig, are characterised by unique adaptive traits, superior meat quality and significant cultural value. Nevertheless, they are threatened by disease outbreaks such as African swine fever, climate change and the loss of genetic diversity.

Despite advances in reproductive biotechnology, frozen semen accounts for less than 1% of semen used for artificial insemination in pigs, mainly due to the high susceptibility of boar semen to damage during freezing and thawing. The project aims to address an important knowledge gap by investigating breed- and individual-specific factors that influence semen freezability in these understudied populations.

The research will be conducted in three phases and will involve a multidisciplinary approach. First, we will assess the quality of semen samples from commercial and indigenous boars using advanced molecular, genetic and proteomic methods. In the second phase, we will apply and evaluate conventional and experimental cryopreservation protocols, with particular emphasis on biomarkers (e.g. AKAP3, FN1) and gene expression (e.g. PRM1, PRM2). In the final phase, the developed cryopreservation protocols will be optimised for use in gene banks and breeding programmes.

These protocols will enable the long-term ex situ conservation of valuable genetic traits while supporting sustainable pig production by preserving genetic diversity and rural economies. The project combines state-of-the-art cryobiology, molecular diagnostics and conservation science. It involves close cooperation between Hungarian and Slovenian institutions and the active participation of young researchers.

The expected results will make an important contribution to the development of reproductive biotechnologies and provide transferable solutions for the conservation of farm animal biodiversity in Europe and beyond.

Partnership

• University of Ljubljana, Veterinary Faculty (lead partner in Slovenia)
• Agricultural Institute of Slovenia
• University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Department of Obstetrics and Food Animal Medicine Clinic (lead agency)