Australian reproductive biotechnology company Memphasys Limited (ASX: MEM) has committed to a transformative equine fertility study that will significantly advance the global commercialisation of the Felix device, positioning it as the leading technology for equine sperm selection.
Memphasys is participating in a three-year equine fertility study, with an annual investment of $30,000. This study will be partially offset by R&D tax credits, making it a cost-effective yet strategic investment in the company’s future.
In collaboration with the University of Newcastle and EquiBreedUK, a leading international UK based Equine stud, the study is designed to establish Felix as the preferred technology for equine sperm selection, with the goal of enabling its rapid commercialisation post-publication of study results.
The study will focus on:
- Sperm Isolation and Oxidative Stress Testing: The Felix device will be evaluated for its effectiveness in isolating high-quality sperm. Oxidative Stress measurement the animal counterpart of RoXsta will also be tested.
Both high quality sperm isolation and oxidative stress testing are critical factors in equine fertility. This study approach mirrors the advanced technologies to be applied in the forthcoming bovine studies and ensure that the data generated will be robust and widely applicable.
- Market Readiness: By confirming the efficacy of Felix in this study, Memphasys will be poised to enter the global equine market with a product that requires no modifications for sale, targeting over 4,000 horse breeders worldwide. The study is expected to produce publishable results within 12 months, which will serve as a strong foundation for marketing and sales efforts.
- Support for Bovine Applications: The insights gained from this equine study will also reinforce Memphasys’ ongoing bovine research, creating synergies that could accelerate the Company’s entry into broader animal fertility markets.
Market opportunity
The global Equine Artificial Insemination (AI) market was valued at US$681.1 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2024 to 2032.2 The U.S. market alone accounted for US$243.7 million in 2023, with expectations of continued growth driven by increasing demand for genetically superior horses in sports and breeding programsme.
“Strategies such as this are value focused and driving the clinical utility and application of these devices into new areas of new opportunity to bring ROI to our investor base,” Dr David Ali, CEO of Memphasys, said,
