Fish Reproduction Company Opens in Woburn

A new laboratory in Woburn will assist researchers in biotechnological development.

Cryogenetics, the “world leader in fish reproduction products and services,” recently opened its company’s US division at 14D Gill St.

“Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is one of the world’s most researched model organisms for medical and biological research, used by more than 850 institutes in the USA alone. Cryogenetics has developed a new procedure for cryopreservation and storage of zebrafish sperm. This is a good alternative for conservation of valuable genetic lines, and an important component to laboratories’ disaster planning. Trials have shown that the company’s method for cryopreservation of zebrafish sperm provides an average of 70-80% fertilization with thawed sperm,” according to the joint statement by the company and Massachusetts Life Sciences Center.

The 5,400 square-foot facility will house individual zebrafish tank rooms and cryopreservation labs for zebrafish and finfish.

“Storage will be provided for frozen sperm samples in liquid nitrogen dewars at the facility in Woburn. In addition, Cryogenetics will have a second repository location offsite to ensure a secure back-up of valuable genetic material,” according to the statement.

“Cryogenetics has developed successful protocols for cryopreservation of milt (sperm) from more than 10 fish species, and provides products and services worldwide. Among the clients are some of the world’s largest salmon producers and nature conservation programs in several countries.”

Jorn Ulhiem, managing director of Cryogenetics, said the new Woburn location is a “world class cryopreservation laboratory and the most advanced unit Cryogenetics has constructed. The company expects this lab to become a significant and trusted service provider for the U.S. zebrafish community, setting a new global standard for effective use and backing of valuable genetic lines."

Local officials are pleased the Norwegian-based company has chosen Woburn.

“Cryogenetics is exactly the type of innovative life sciences business we are trying to attract to the Commonwealth and to the city of Woburn,” said state Rep. Dwyer. “I look forward to working with them to help provide them with the tools to create jobs and thrive as a business.”

“Woburn has long maintained a strong commitment when it comes to smart economic planning—particularly given this area’s talented workforce and Woburn’s great location at I-95 and I-93,” said Mayor Scott Galvin. “Global leadership in biotechnology and life sciences innovation are essential components of this area’s economic fabric, and we are pleased to welcome Cryogenetics to the City of Woburn.”