Research

SUPERNOVA: a new step forward for biodiversity conservation and cryobanking in livestock genetics SUPERNOVA is a newly funded research project led by ReDBioLab within the framework of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) National Strategic Plan, an initiative designed to integrate local priorities with European policy objectives and to deliver targeted, tangible results for sustainable agriculture. The new project SUPERNOVA (2026-2028) marks an important advancement in the conservation of animal genetic resources in Italy and Europe, building upon the scientific and operational achievements of the previous initiatives INNOVA and R-INNOVA. The initiative strengthens the collaboration between the Center for Reproductive Biotechnology and Cryobanking (CRBC) of the University of Milan and the Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology of the National Research Council of Italy (IBBA-CNR), consolidating a strategic partnership in the field of reproductive biotechnology and animal cryobanking. The initiative also involves the company Avantea, a European and global reference center for research and a leading company in animal reproductive biotechnologies. The CRBC, directed by Alberto Maria Luciano, operates within the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS) and has long been engaged in developing advanced assisted reproductive technologies and germplasm preservation strategies. Together with IBBA-CNR, which manages national animal germplasm cryobanks, the center contributes to a coordinated infrastructure dedicated to safeguarding biodiversity in livestock populations. From INNOVA to SUPERNOVA: strengthening a conservation paradigm SUPERNOVA represents the third phase of a long-term effort initiated with the projects INNOVA and R-INNOVA, aimed at protecting endangered livestock breeds through innovative reproductive biotechnologies and cryopreservation approaches. The projects have focused in particular on the conservation of the Varzese cattle breed, the only native cattle breed of Lombardy and one that remains at risk of genetic erosion and extinction. Over the previous phases, researchers established experimental pipelines for the ex situ conservation of germplasm, including embryos, oocytes, and ovarian tissue, demonstrating the feasibility of applying advanced assisted reproductive technologies to preserve rare livestock genetics. These efforts also fostered strong collaboration with breeders and livestock associations such as ANABoRaRe, enabling the integration of scientific innovation with the practical needs of farms.  Expanding cryobanking and genetic rescue strategies The SUPERNOVA project aims to expand these achievements by implementing a coordinated strategy for genetic rescue and biodiversity conservation. The initiative will enlarge the germplasm collections stored in the cryobanks of the CRBC and IBBA-CNR through the cryopreservation of embryos, oocytes, ovarian tissue and spermatozoa derived from genetically valuable animals. A key innovation introduced in this phase is the integration of male germplasm recovery techniques, including the collection and cryopreservation of epididymal sperm obtained post-mortem from genetically valuable bulls. This approach allows researchers to recover genetic material even when conventional semen collection is not feasible, a frequent situation in extensive livestock systems. In parallel, the project will apply genotyping and genomic analyses to donor animals to monitor genetic diversity, reduce inbreeding risks, and support optimal breeding strategies for the Varzese population. Linking conservation, farming systems, and consumers Beyond genetic conservation, SUPERNOVA also aims to reinforce the breed’s sustainability by strengthening its integration into regional production systems. The project includes studies of the sensory and quality characteristics of meat products derived from Varzese cattle, as well as consumer perception analyses aimed at increasing awareness and market recognition of products from local breeds. These activities seek to connect biodiversity conservation with economic sustainability for farmers, promoting local livestock systems that contribute to resilient agro-ecosystems. A growing network for national and European cryobanking SUPERNOVA also plays a strategic role in the consolidation of cryobanking networks at both national and European levels. Through joint activities, scientific exchanges and dissemination initiatives, the partnership between CRBC and IBBA-CNR contributes to strengthening infrastructures dedicated to the long-term preservation of animal genetic resources. The project thus represents a model for integrating reproductive biotechnology, cryobanking, and sustainable livestock management, providing tools and knowledge applicable to other endangered breeds and agricultural biodiversity programs across Europe. By advancing the legacy of INNOVA and R-INNOVA, SUPERNOVA confirms the central role of Italian research institutions in the global effort to protect livestock biodiversity and to support resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.