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Neculai-Valeanu AS, Ariton AM. Game-Changing Approaches in Sperm Sex-Sorting: Microfluidics and Nanotechnology. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041182. [PMID: 33924241 PMCID: PMC8074747 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sexing of sperm cells, including the capacity to preselect the sex of offspring prior to reproduction, has been a major target of reproductive biotechnology for a very long time. The advances in molecular biology, biophysics, and computer science over the past few decades, as well as the groundbreaking new methods introduced by scientists, have contributed to some major breakthroughs in a variety of branches of medicine. In particular, assisted reproduction is one of the areas in which emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and microfluidics may enhance the fertility potential of samples of sex-sorted semen, thus improving the reproductive management of farm animals and conservation programs. In human medicine, embryo sex-selection using in vitro fertilization (IVF) and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is accepted only for medical reasons. Using sex-sorting before IVF would enable specialists to prevent sex-linked genetic diseases and prevent the discharge of embryos which are not suitable for transfer due to their sex. Abstract The utilization of sex-sorted sperm for artificial insemination and in-vitro fertilization is considered a valuable tool for improving production efficiency and optimizing reproductive management in farm animals, subsequently ensuring sufficient food resource for the growing human population. Despite the fact that sperm sex-sorting is one of the most intense studied technologies and notable progress have been made in the past three decades to optimize it, the conception rates when using sex-sorted semen are still under expectations. Assisted reproduction programs may benefit from the use of emergent nano and microfluidic-based technologies. This article addresses the currently used methods for sperm sex-sorting, as well as the emerging ones, based on nanotechnology and microfluidics emphasizing on their practical and economic applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andra-Sabina Neculai-Valeanu
- Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding Dancu, 707252 Iasi, Romania;
- Department of Fundamental Sciences in Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, University of Applied Life Sciences and Environment “Ion Ionescu de la Brad”, 700490 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Adina Mirela Ariton
- Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding Dancu, 707252 Iasi, Romania;
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The ART of bringing extinction to a freeze - History and future of species conservation, exemplified by rhinos. Theriogenology 2021; 169:76-88. [PMID: 33940218 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The ongoing mass extinction of animal species at an unprecedented rate is largely caused by human activities. Progressive habitat destruction and fragmentation is resulting in accelerated loss of biodiversity on a global scale. Over decades, captive breeding programs of non-domestic species were characterized by efforts to optimize species-specific husbandry, to increase studbook-based animal exchange, and to improve enclosure designs. To counter the ongoing dramatic loss of biodiversity, new approaches are warranted. Recently, new ideas, particularly the application of assisted reproduction technologies (ART), have been incorporated into classical zoo breeding programs. These technologies include semen and oocyte collection, artificial insemination, and in-vitro embryo generation. More futuristic ideas of advanced ART (aART) implement recent advances in biotechnology and stem-cell related approaches such as cloning, inner cell mass transfer (ICM), and the stem-cell-associated techniques (SCAT) for the generation of gametes and ultimately embryos of highly endangered species, such as the northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) of which only two female individuals are left. Both, ART and aART greatly depend on and benefit from the rapidly evolving cryopreservation techniques and biobanking not only of genetic, but also of viable cellular materials suitable for the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). The availability of cryopreserved materials bridges gaps in time and space, thereby optimizing the available genetic variability and enhancing the chance to restore viable populations.
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Brown JL. Update on Comparative Biology of Elephants: Factors Affecting Reproduction, Health and Welfare. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1200:243-273. [PMID: 31471800 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-23633-5_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Asian (Elephas maximus) and African (Loxodonta africana) elephants serve as important keystone, umbrella and flagship species. Despite that, population numbers are declining, due mainly to poaching and habitat destruction. Understanding reproductive mechanisms is vital to effective management, particularly insurance populations in captivity, and to that end, long-term biological databases are key to understanding how intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect reproductive function at individual and population levels. Through decades of hormonal and ultrasonographic monitoring, many unique aspects of zoo elephant reproduction have been identified, including differences in luteal steroidogenic activity, follicular maturation, pituitary gonadotropin secretion, fetal development and reproductive tract anatomy. Reproductive problems also hamper captive propagation efforts, particularly those related to abnormal or lack of ovarian cyclicity. Recent large-scale, multi-institutional studies and use of epidemiological approaches have identified factors important for good welfare and reproduction, which include enrichment, feeding diversity, good elephant-keeper relations, social compatibility, exercise, and not being obese. There are notable differences in reproductive mechanisms between Asian and African elephants, as well as the factors that influence reproduction and welfare, suggesting species-targeted management approaches are needed to maximize fitness. In the first edition, we discussed reproductive function in male and female elephants. Since then, a number of significant advances have been made primarily in female elephants, which will be the focus of this updated review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine L Brown
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA, USA.
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Comparative reproductive biology of elephants. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 753:135-69. [PMID: 25091910 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0820-2_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The ability to serially collect blood samples and conduct ultrasound examinations in Asian and African elephants has provided unique opportunities to study the biology of these endangered species. As a result, many unique aspects of elephant reproduction have been identified. For females, there are interesting differences in luteal steroidogenic activity, follicular maturation, pituitary gonadotropin secretion, fetal development and reproductive tract anatomy, while males exhibit the unique phenomenon of musth and an unusual reproductive anatomy (internal testes, ampullary semen storage). However, problems associated with uterine and ovarian pathologies hamper captive propagation efforts. Older, nulliparous cows are particularly susceptible, leading to speculation that continuous ovarian cyclicity of non-bred females in zoos is having a negative and cumulative effect on reproductive health. There are notable species differences in reproductive mechanisms as well (e.g., ovarian acyclicity, prolactin secretion, sperm cryosensitivity), implying that species-specific approaches to management and application of assisted reproductive techniques are needed for maximal reproductive efficiency and enhancement of genetic management.
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Rodenas C, Lucas X, Tarantini T, Del Olmo D, Roca J, Vazquez JM, Martinez EA, Parrilla I. The Effects of Hoechst 33342 Staining and the Male Sample Donor on the Sorting Efficiency of Canine Spermatozoa. Reprod Domest Anim 2013; 49:115-21. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Rodenas
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - X Lucas
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - T Tarantini
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - D Del Olmo
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - J Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - JM Vazquez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - EA Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - I Parrilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery University of Murcia Murcia Spain
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Kiso WK, Selvaraj V, Nagashima J, Asano A, Brown JL, Schmitt DL, Leszyk J, Travis AJ, Pukazhenthi BS. Lactotransferrin in Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) seminal plasma correlates with semen quality. PLoS One 2013; 8:e71033. [PMID: 23976974 PMCID: PMC3745378 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) have highly variable ejaculate quality within individuals, greatly reducing the efficacy of artificial insemination and making it difficult to devise a sperm cryopreservation protocol for this endangered species. Because seminal plasma influences sperm function and physiology, including sperm motility, the objectives of this study were to characterize the chemistry and protein profiles of Asian elephant seminal plasma and to determine the relationships between seminal plasma components and semen quality. Ejaculates exhibiting good sperm motility (≥65%) expressed higher percentages of spermatozoa with normal morphology (80.3±13.0 vs. 44.9±30.8%) and positive Spermac staining (51.9±14.5 vs. 7.5±14.4%), in addition to higher total volume (135.1±89.6 vs. 88.8±73.1 ml) and lower sperm concentration (473.0±511.2 vs. 1313.8±764.7×106 cells ml−1) compared to ejaculates exhibiting poor sperm motility (≤10%; P<0.05). Comparison of seminal plasma from ejaculates with good versus poor sperm motility revealed significant differences in concentrations of creatine phosphokinase, alanine aminotransferase, phosphorus, sodium, chloride, magnesium, and glucose. These observations suggest seminal plasma influences semen quality in elephants. One- and two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis revealed largely similar compositional profiles of seminal plasma proteins between good and poor motility ejaculates. However, a protein of ∼80 kDa was abundant in 85% of ejaculates with good motility, and was absent in 90% of poor motility ejaculates (P<0.05). We used mass spectrometry to identify this protein as lactotransferrin, and immunoblot analysis to confirm this identification. Together, these findings lay a functional foundation for understanding the contributions of seminal plasma in the regulation of Asian elephant sperm motility, and for improving semen collection and storage in this endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy K. Kiso
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Vimal Selvaraj
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Nagashima
- The Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Atsushi Asano
- The Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Janine L. Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Dennis L. Schmitt
- The William H. Darr School of Agriculture, Missouri State University, Springfield, Missouri, United States of America
- The Ringling Bros. Center for Elephant Conservation, Polk City, Florida, United States of America
| | - John Leszyk
- University of Massachusetts Medical School Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry Facility, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Alexander J. Travis
- The Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Budhan S. Pukazhenthi
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
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Hildebrandt TB, Hermes R, Saragusty J, Potier R, Schwammer HM, Balfanz F, Vielgrader H, Baker B, Bartels P, Göritz F. Enriching the captive elephant population genetic pool through artificial insemination with frozen-thawed semen collected in the wild. Theriogenology 2012; 78:1398-404. [PMID: 22898009 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2012] [Revised: 06/06/2012] [Accepted: 06/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The first successful AI in an elephant was reported in 1998, using fresh semen. Since then almost 40 calves have been produced through AI in both Asian and African elephants worldwide. Following these successes, with the objective of enriching the captive population with genetic material from the wild, we evaluated the possibility of using frozen-thawed semen collected from wild bulls for AI in captivity. Semen, collected from a 36-yr-old wild African savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana) in South Africa was frozen using the directional freezing technique. This frozen-thawed semen was used for four inseminations over two consecutive days, two before and two after ovulation, in a 26-yr-old female African savanna elephant in Austria. Insemination dose of 1200 × 10(6) cells per AI with 61% motility resulted in pregnancy, which was confirmed through ultrasound examination 75, 110 and 141 days after the AI procedure. This represents the first successful AI using wild bull frozen-thawed semen in elephants. The incorporation of AI with frozen-thawed semen into the assisted reproduction toolbox opens the way to preserve and transport semen between distant individuals in captivity or, as was done in this study, between wild and captive populations, without the need to transport stressed or potentially disease-carrying animals or to remove animals from the wild. In addition, cryopreserved spermatozoa, in combination with AI, are useful methods to extend the reproductive lifespan of individuals beyond their biological lifespan and an important tool for genetic diversity management and phenotype selection in these endangered mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- T B Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.
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Behr B, Rath D, Mueller P, Hildebrandt T, Goeritz F, Braun B, Leahy T, de Graaf S, Maxwell W, Hermes R. Feasibility of sex-sorting sperm from the white and the black rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum, Diceros bicornis). Theriogenology 2009; 72:353-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2009] [Revised: 03/13/2009] [Accepted: 03/15/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Saragusty J, Hermes R, Göritz F, Schmitt DL, Hildebrandt TB. Skewed birth sex ratio and premature mortality in elephants. Anim Reprod Sci 2008; 115:247-54. [PMID: 19058933 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2008] [Revised: 10/24/2008] [Accepted: 10/24/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Sex allocation theories predict equal offspring number of both sexes unless differential investment is required or some competition exists. Left undisturbed, elephants reproduce well and in approximately even numbers in the wild. We report an excess of males are born and substantial juvenile mortality occurs, perinatally, in captivity. Studbook data on captive births (CB, n=487) and premature deaths (PD, <5 years of age; n=164) in Asian and African elephants in Europe and North America were compared with data on Myanmar timber (Asian) elephants (CB, n=3070; PD, n=738). Growth in CB was found in three of the captive populations. A significant excess of male births occurred in European Asian elephants (ratio: 0.61, P=0.044) and in births following artificial insemination (0.83, P=0.003), and a numerical inclination in North American African elephants (0.6). While juvenile mortality in European African and Myanmar populations was 21-23%, it was almost double (40-45%) in all other captive populations. In zoo populations, 68-91% of PD were within 1 month of birth with stillbirth and infanticide being major causes. In Myanmar, 62% of juvenile deaths were at >6 months with maternal insufficient milk production, natural hazards and accidents being the main causes. European Asian and Myanmar elephants PD was biased towards males (0.71, P=0.024 and 0.56, P<0.001, respectively). The skewed birth sex ratio and high juvenile mortality hinder efforts to help captive populations become self-sustaining. Efforts should be invested to identify the mechanism behind these trends and seek solutions for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke Strasse 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany.
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