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Game-changing motile cell count algorithm for all sex-sorted semen

Our ground-breaking MCC algorithm automatically calculates the concentration of both total motile and progressive motile cells in any sex-sorted sample measured with the Dynescan. It works seamlessly in the background while you perform your usual analysis — no extra steps, no extra hassle.

When combined with the large field of view of Dynescan videos, this technology has the potential to set a new standard in quality control (QC) for sex-sorted semen, as it addresses limitations of CASA instruments. For instance, it captures up to 10 times more cells in a single field of view, and delivers results that are independent of the user and their experience. Our MCC algorithm is particularly well suited for evaluating sexed semen straws produced by any sorting technology, but it can also be applied to conventional straws (upon request).

How to use the beta MCC Analysis

The best part? For Dynescan users, no extra steps are needed. The MCC analysis is automatically applied to every sex-sorted sample during the standard measurement process, guaranteeing consistent and reliable results — no matter the operator’s experience. 

Look for the Total Motile Count (TMC) and Progressive Motile Count (PMC) per milliliter, conveniently displayed under Concentration Test Results in the Dyneval web app. These results can also be easily accessed in the Dyneval’s Semen Motility PDF report, ensuring quick and straightforward evaluation of semen quality.

MCC Algorithm Validation

A total of 110 semen straws, including both conventional and sex-sorted samples, were analysed to validate the MCC algorithm. Each straw was assessed undiluted, loaded into 20 µm depth Leja® slides, and sealed with Vaseline® to prevent drift. Measurements were conducted using the IVOS® II (Hamilton Thorne) and the Dynescan (Dyneval®) within the same chamber, with all readings taken within one minute. Any motile cells missed by the IVOS® II were manually corrected, an additional, time consuming step that required careful attention to ensure a fair comparison. The results are in Figure 1. Given that Dynescan’s field of view is approximately 10 times larger than that of the IVOS® II, no fewer than seven fields of view were analysed per sample using the IVOS® II.

IVOS® II vs. Dynescan Comparison
Fig 1.Two plots demonstrating the agreement between the IVOS II results and the Motile Cell Count (MCC) algorithm of the Dynescan. Note that cells missed by the IVOS II are corrected for. The standard Qualivet settings were used to categorize cell types for both technologies, and both conventional and sexed semen straws [1]. The plots show their fit with its corresponding gradient, where the y-intercept has been fixed to zero. Left: The total motile concentration results ranging from around 1M/mL to above 60M/mL. Right: the progressively motile cell concentration ranging from around 1M/mL to over 40M/mL.

We found our MCC algorithm agreed quantitatively with the IVOS II within less than 4%, on average, giving an excellent correlation with a Pearson coefficient of 0.99 for both TMC and PMC. This correlation is maintained for a wide range of motile concentrations from as low as 1.4M/mL up to around 60M/mL. Minor deviations were observed at higher concentrations (>55M/mL total motile), which, for a motility of 50%, corresponds to a total concentration of around 110M/mL—well within the range of many conventional semen straws. While these differences are minimal, further investigation is required to determine their significance at elevated concentrations.

We note that we do not consider the capillary correction when using Leja channel slides, and the same correction is removed from the IVOS II values, to compare results fairly. See the bottom of page for more information. Also, please be aware that the MCC is measured in millions of cells per millimeter, if you wish to know how much is in a 0.25mL straw you must divide it by 4. 

Current standards and CASA systems

In the world of semen analysis, accuracy matters. This is especially true for sex-sorted semen samples, which contain low concentrations and a significant amount of debris in comparison to conventional or fresh semen. With sex-sorted straws growing in popularity worldwide, there is an urgent need for a quick, reliable, low-effort, and high-accuracy method for quality control.

The two different methods to process sexed semen are as follows:

  • Cells are physically sorted, only allowing one gender to enter the straw. Figure 2 (a)
  • The undesired gender is ablated before the sample is added to the straw. Figure 2 (b)

 

The images in Figure 2 are examples of the two different sorting types, which both contain significant amounts of debris. This creates a challenging environment for CASA systems, which struggle to accurately characterise percentage motility in the presence of debris. Debris are often detected as non-motile cells, artificially lowering motility. Additionally, the high magnification required by CASA systems makes them sensitive to slight variations in focus, further affecting measurement consistency. These challenges are compounded by the fact that different sex-sorting technologies use varying preparation protocols, resulting in additional variability in sample characteristics.

Two different methods to process sexed semen
Fig 2. Two examples of sex sorted samples. (a) demonstrates the method that filters out the unwanted gender from the straw, and (b) shows the technique that ablates cells of the incorrect gender, which are seen in the sample. The circled subfigure offers a magnified view of an ablated cell, demonstrating the ease with which it can be identified as a regular cell.

The challenges associated with CASA systems mentioned above, can all be solved with our MCC algorithm. The following advantages of the MCC algorithm collectively enhance its accuracy and precision beyond what has been achieved with conventional approaches.

  • It captures 10x more cells in a single field of view due to the Dyneval, low magnification videos, reducing variability and saving time.
  • It is not sensitive on focus due to low magnification, making it user-independent and less prone to user mistakes.
  • It excludes the detection of cells that lack the capacity to migrate through the fallopian tube to fertilise the oocyte, thereby eliminating errors caused by the misidentification of non-cellular, non-motile particles.

Shaping the future: Dyneval's MCC algorithm

At Dyneval, we believe the industry deserves better tools — tools that deliver accuracy, consistency, and confidence. That’s why we’ve developed our pioneering Motile Cell Count (MCC) algorithm: a game-changing feature that sets a new benchmark for semen analysis.

The MCC algorithm provides breeders, researchers, and technicians with a deeper understanding of semen quality over time — delivering precise, transparent data that empowers smarter, evidence-based decisions.

We believe MCC has the potential to become standard practice across the industry, transforming the way semen quality is assessed and unlocking better outcomes from lab to field.

We’d love to hear how MCC is supporting your work — share your thoughts with us at contact@dyneval.com.

References

  1. O’Meara, C., Henrotte, E., Kupisiewicz, K., Latour, C., Broekhuijse, M., Camus, A., Gavin-Plagne, L., & Sellem, E.. (2022). The effect of adjusting settings within a Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) system on bovine sperm motility and morphology results. Animal Reproduction, 19(1), e20210077. https://doi.org/10.1590/1984-3143-AR2021-0077 

 

Note on the SS-effect:

It is claimed that applying the capillary correction is due to a phenomenon called the Segre-Silberberg effect. Based on experimental evidence, we have found such effect is not justified for semen samples and so have removed the factor of 1.3 that is applied to all IVOS II concentration measurements. Further details to follow.

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