CVM researchers to attend RM Kenney Equine Reproduction Symposium

COLLEGE STATION, TX - Being invited to participate in a symposium held in memory of a pioneering scientist is an honor.

This week, a group of researchers from Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM), will have this very privilege.

Drs. Terry Blanchard, Katrin Hinrichs and Charles Love will present lectures and wet labs at the "R. M. Kenney Equine Reproduction Symposium" to be held from September 24 to 27 at the University of Pennsylvania. Organized in memory of Dr. Robert M. Kenney (1924-2008), a luminary in the field of equine fertility and reproduction, the symposium is a 4-day continuing education program for veterinarians and animal scientists.

All three CVM faculty members completed their veterinary residencies under Kenney at the University of Pennsylvania and share fond memories of a mentor who guided by excellence and example.

"Bob served as a font of knowledge before there were search engines," said Hinrichs. "He was familiar with both the latest research in horse reproduction and related areas in other species as well as with the researchers involved. He held out a high standard for intellectual thought and interpretation of the literature."

Blanchard echoed Hinrichs' praise for Kenney: "Bob was unique in that he took a great interest in you not just as a veterinarian but also as a person. The symposium is a great way to honor him."

The three CVM researchers have followed in Kenney's footsteps, developing an international reputation for their research in equine reproduction. The symposium will be an opportunity to showcase this work.

For example, in her wet lab on embryo and oocyte transfer, Hinrichs will discuss techniques developed at the CVM for processes such as post mortem transportation of ovaries, oocyte collection from isolated ovaries and live mares, and oocyte fertilization via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Love's presentation on "Measures of semen quality" will also highlight CVM's expertise in this field.

"We're pretty much the only lab in the world that has developed a battery of tests to evaluate stallion sperm quality," said Love.

CVM will also be represented by veterinary residents Dr. Shelby Hayden and Dr. Semira Mancill who will give presentations on the topics "Deep horn insemination" and "Sperm separation with Equipure" in addition to assisting with wet labs.

The event also offers a chance to forge research collaborations.

"The meeting will be a good opportunity to talk to other speakers about new findings, possible new studies, and new techniques in assisted reproduction in the horse," said Hinrichs.

Contact Information:
Angela G. Clendenin
Director, Communications & Public Relations
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