Kaja Ziółkowska-Twarowska, Paweł Grychnik 
Disciplne: Animal Science and Fisheries 
University of Agriculture in Krakow, Faculty of Animal Breeding and Biology, Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics

During our stay, we had the privilege of collaborating with a research team led by Prof. Monika Bugno-Poniewierska. The team’s primary scientific areas of interest include the following: cytogenetics and genomics of livestock and companion animals, analysis of genome structure and organisation, identification of chromosomal aberrations, and the molecular basis of fertility and reproductive disorders. The team’s research also focuses on the application of modern cytogenetic and molecular techniques to improve breeding and conserve animal genetic resources.

During the internship, we gained hands-on experience with procedures related to semen decondensation, which equipped us with the necessary skills to analyse sperm chromatin structure in the context of animal reproduction studies. We also had expertise in the technique of fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH) in somatic and germ cells of animals, as well as methods of differential chromosome staining, including GTG and AgNOR techniques. Furthermore, we gained experience in analysing prepared samples using light and fluorescence microscopy, as well as utilising ZEN (ZEISS) software.

During the internship, we also expanded our skills in laser microdissection of chromosomes in various animal species using the Leica LMDS microdissector. This professional instrument enabled us to isolate specific fragments of genetic material with great precision for further analysis. We acquired competencies in karyotyping using IKAROS (MetaSystems) software, as well as practical experience in assessing semen quality with the computer-assisted CASA SCA system and in working with the TimeLapse continuous embryo monitoring system.