Techniques and significance of gamete collection and storage in the great apes.

Rectal probe electroejaculation (RPE) is the most frequently used method for semen recovery in the great apes. Artificial insemination has been successful in the chimpanzee and gorilla. Oocytes can be recovered using laparoscopic techniques similar to those used in human medicine. At this time there has been no successful in vitro fertilization with birth of an infant in the great apes. Semen can be successfully frozen in the apes, as documented by recovery of motility of sperm after thawing. Pregnancies have been initiated in the chimpanzee and gorilla using frozen thawed semen.