Pathogens in processed ram semen and approaches for their elimination

Abstract

A variety of pathogenic contaminants might be isolated from semen, processed for artificial insemination (AI) programs: Prions, viruses, bacteria, yeasts or protozoa. This review will discuss the broad scale of pathogens detected in processed ram semen. Reviewed findings will be confronted with the latest knowledge related to semen contamination in other livestock species. An accent will be placed on current experience and future aspects of approaches for elimination of pathogens from processed semen (especially, from semen processed under field conditions).