One in eight couples in the world suffers from infertility, and this is usually due to male factors. However, identifying genetic causes in humans is difficult due to data limitations and ethical constraints. Solution? Bulls. Researchers from ETH Zurich created a comprehensive “fertility profile” by analyzing gene activity in various reproductive tissues of young bulls.
Many of the identified genes are also involved in human male fertility due to mechanisms conserved in mammals. Specific gene variants associated with low fertility have been identified in bulls, which may aid early detection in breeding programs. Improved diagnostics based on these results could prevent seeding failures and save farmers significant money.
Although its impact on human fertility research is not yet clear, the findings lead to further research. The main beneficiaries are animal breeders, who can minimize financial losses from unsuccessful inseminations.
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Source: Ferra
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