Effect of antibiotics on thermodynamic properties of freezing media in rabbit species: A first calorimetric approach

Semen freezing is an effective and safe solution for the cryopreservation of animal genetic resources and for the diffusion of the genetic progress. Actually, these techniques are not yet under control for the rabbit species partly because methods are not clearly defined. Thus, the aim of this work is to study the effect of antibiotics (Penicillin G, Streptomycin) routinely used in freezing semen on the thermodynamic properties of freezing media mainly used in rabbit species. Measurements realized by differential scanning calorimetry show that these antibiotics may change the temperature of crystallization and the quantity of ice formed in the freezing media considered. Our calorimetric approach underlined that the composition and the properties of the cryoprotective solutions should be studied more precisely.