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Technology

We integrate veterinary expertise, biomedical research and microfluidics engineering to transform livestock reproduction.

Our proprietary analyses

Functional analyses based on Microfluidics.

Microfluidics allows to simulate the strict selection process that occurs in the female tract to improve the reproduction outcome and success rate of artificial inseminations.

At Agrofluidics, we pioneer the commercial use of rheotaxis under different flow rates to evaluate the functionality of seminal samples. We are also advancing the development of thermotaxis and chemotaxis analyses, with the goal of delivering a fast, cost-effective, and innovative functional assessment of seminal quality.

Functional semen analyses based on Microfluidics

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Assessment & Analysis

We conduct both standard and advanced semen analyses with state-of-the-art techniques, ensuring complete reproductive diagnostics.

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Microfluidic analysis

Our proprietary microfluidic platforms mimic natural biological processes, filtering and selecting only the best sperm cells.

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Innovation Pipeline

Beyond current services, we are developing disruptive technologies and tools that will soon reshape the lifestock industry using microfluidics.
Microfluidic technology to livestock reproduction

industry development pipeline

Our development pipeline is driven by disruptive technologies set to revolutionize the swine livestock industry, alongside groundbreaking services not yet available in the European market.
Industry development pipeline

Current R&D Projects

SORTYX

Grupos Operativos Suprautonomicos

SortYX is an innovative project focused on developing a fast, automated, and non-invasive microfluidic system for sex-based sperm selection in pigs, with the aim of obtaining offspring of the desired sex and improving reproductive efficiency in the swine sector. The proposed solution seeks to overcome the limitations of current techniques, such as flow cytometry, through a microfluidic chip capable of separating X- and Y-bearing sperm cells without damaging them and with strong potential for implementation in artificial insemination centres. By combining reproductive biotechnology, microfluidics, computational simulation, and biological validation, the project aims to deliver a high-impact tool for genetic improvement, high-value extensive production, and a more sustainable and efficient pig farming industry.

Frequently asked questions about microfluidics applied to animal reproduction

Microfluidics is a technology that enables the manipulation of biological fluids within devices containing microscopic channels, using very small volumes under highly controlled conditions. In animal reproduction, its purpose is to more accurately replicate the physiological environment in which gametes and embryos develop, helping improve the quality, efficiency, and reproducibility of reproductive processes.

Microfluidics is used to optimize different stages of the reproductive process, including sperm selection, in vitro fertilization, embryo culture and monitoring, and the development of more precise and less invasive systems for handling gametes and embryos. One of its most established applications is sperm selection, where it can help recover highly motile sperm cells with superior functional characteristics while reducing the cellular stress associated with some conventional techniques.

Sperm rheotaxis is the ability of sperm cells to orient themselves and swim against a fluid flow. This behavior plays an important role in helping sperm progress through the female reproductive tract. Using microfluidic systems, these flow conditions can be recreated within microchannels to evaluate which sperm cells respond most effectively. Rheotaxis therefore becomes a functional tool for analyzing and selecting sperm with superior motility and quality characteristics.

Agrofluidics is a pioneer in the commercial application of rheotaxis under different flow rates to assess the functionality of semen samples.

Microfluidics allows semen to be evaluated under conditions that closely resemble the physiological environment encountered by sperm within the female reproductive tract. Compared with traditional methods, it provides a more functional assessment by evaluating not only sperm concentration and motility, but also how sperm respond to physical stimuli such as fluid flow. In addition, microfluidic systems can reduce sample handling, reagent use, and cellular stress associated with conventional procedures that may negatively affect sample quality.

Agrofluidics contributes to more sustainable animal reproduction through technologies that improve the evaluation and selection of semen doses before artificial insemination. By identifying samples with superior functional quality, reproductive efficiency can be improved while reducing failures associated with lower-quality semen doses.

More efficient reproduction means better use of resources, including fewer repeat inseminations, reduced consumption of biological materials and reagents, and more precise reproductive planning. In addition, microfluidic systems operate with smaller sample volumes and less invasive processes for sperm cells. Technologies such as sperm sex selection may also contribute to more efficient and sustainable livestock production by better aligning output with production goals and reducing inefficiencies associated with undesired sex ratios.

In swine artificial insemination, antibiotics are commonly added to semen extenders to control bacterial growth during dose storage. However, reducing antibiotic use is becoming increasingly important in order to support sustainable reproduction practices and address the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance.

Agrofluidics addresses this challenge through microfluidic systems capable of processing semen doses using controlled physical mechanisms that help improve both sanitary and functional quality while reducing dependence on routine antibiotic use.

The objective is not to replace established hygiene and microbiological control practices, but rather to provide an additional technological tool that supports the production of cleaner, safer semen doses with lower reliance on antimicrobial treatments.