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Negus C, Pinyopummin A, Mahasawangkul S, Hobbs R, Bathgate R. Asian elephant ( Elephas maximus) seminal plasma: establishing the proteome and effect on spermatozoa when added to cryomedium. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23217. [PMID: 39052858 DOI: 10.1071/rd23217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Context The removal or supplementation of ejaculates with seminal plasma (SP) can affect cryotolerance and post-thaw survival of spermatozoa in many species. In the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus ), elucidation of the SP proteome and investigation of how it affects spermatozoa may enable improvement of cryopreservation protocols. Aims Herein, we characterise the Asian elephant SP proteome and investigate the impacts of SP on sperm cryotolerance in the presence of conspecific or heterospecific SP. Methods Proteomic analysis of Asian elephant SP was performed using mass spectrometry on nine samples from three individuals. In a separate study, SP was removed from six ejaculates and spermatozoa were resuspended in Tris extender supplemented with: no seminal plasma (NOSP), conspecific SP from ejaculates exhibiting 'good' (GSP, >60%) or mixed sperm total motility (MSP), or horse SP (HSP). Samples underwent cryopreservation, and sperm parameters were compared prior to cryopreservation and after thawing (0 and 2h). Key results Mass spectrometry identified 155 proteins from an array of families. Significant differences were observed in post-thaw sperm quality between SP treatments: high concentrations of MSP (25%, v/v) displayed greater average path and straight-line velocity immediately after thawing (P P P Conclusions and implications These preliminary findings suggest the potential of SP to enhance the cryosurvival of Asian elephant spermatozoa, with HSP showing particularly promising results compared to conspecific SP (GSP). Further research into the specific effects of Asian elephant SP proteins is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Negus
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anuchai Pinyopummin
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | | | - Rebecca Hobbs
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Dubbo, NSW, Australia
| | - Roslyn Bathgate
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Thongphakdee A, Kiatsomboon S, Noimoon S, Kongprom U, Boonorana I, Karoon S, Thawnern J, Sakulthai A, Sombutputorn P, Sukmak M, Punkong C, Thongtip N. Semen characteristics and second successful artificial insemination of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) in Thailand. Vet World 2022; 15:1246-1255. [PMID: 35765477 PMCID: PMC9210840 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1246-1255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: As the number of wild Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) continues to decline, maintaining healthy populations under human care is vital. Male fertility assessment is essential for understanding the reproductive status, which can help to uncover underlying problems and improve the rate of pregnancy success. The objectives of this study in Asian elephants were as follows: (1) To investigate the semen characteristics; (2) to compare the relative seminal vesicle size and semen characteristics; (3) to compare the semen characteristics between good-motile (>60% progressive motility) and poor-motile (<60% progressive motility) ejaculates; and (4) to investigate the pregnancy success rate after artificial insemination (AI) with combined chilled and frozen semen. Materials and Methods: In total, 153 ejaculates were collected by manual rectal stimulation from 25 bulls. The volume, pH, sperm concentration, progressive motility, viability, morphology, and membrane integrity were investigated in each ejaculate. Assessment of accessory sex glands was conducted using transrectal ultrasonography to compare the relative seminal vesicle size and semen characteristics, and the bulls were divided into two groups according to the size of the ampulla (<7 or ≥7 cm2). For the comparison of good and poor-motile ejaculates and semen characteristics, the samples were divided into two groups: Good-motile (>60% progressive motility) and poor-motile (<60% progressive motility) ejaculates. Semen ejaculates for AI were collected from three bulls. The estrous cycles of four females were monitored using an enzyme immunoassay. Seven AI attempts were conducted using frozen and/or chilled semen by endoscopic visualization. AI was repeated 1 day before the luteinizing hormone surge, on the day of the surge, and 1 day after the surge. Pregnancy was confirmed by monitoring the serum progesterone profile and the abdomen and mammary glands changes. Results: From 153 ejaculates, the mean±standard error values of progressive motility, semen volume, sperm concentration, pH, and viability were 40.18%±2.28%, 40.94±3.86 mL, 1,205.58±62.26×106 sperm/mL, 7.50±0.10, and 56.17%±1.96%, respectively. Comparing ampulla size and semen characteristics revealed that the bulls with ampullae of ≥7 cm2 yielded significantly larger volume ejaculates. However, there were no significant differences in sperm motility and concentration. The comparison of semen characteristics between good- and poor-motile ejaculates revealed that the former had significantly higher pH, viability, normal acrosomes, intact membranes, and normal head and tail morphology but often had a significantly lower volume and sperm concentration. From seven AI attempts in four females, one female had a confirmed pregnancy (14.3% pregnancy rate), and delivered a healthy live female baby weighing 128 kg at 21 months and 12 days of gestation. The baby is now 3 years old and in a healthy condition, with normally developing growth and behavior. Conclusion: The semen characteristics of Asian elephants can be used as the baseline reference for further applications. The ampullae size indicates semen quantity but not quality. Our success in producing an elephant calf from AI using frozen and chilled semen demonstrated that AI can be used as an alternative approach for the breeding management of Asian elephants. However, the semen of Asian elephants is of poor quality, especially in terms of membrane integrity; thus, the improvement in semen quality through intensive and careful management of elephant health and fertility remains a challenge for the future. Furthermore, a sperm bank should be established to develop sperm cryopreservation, which will be invaluable for improving the genetic diversity of the Asian elephant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ampika Thongphakdee
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Supalak Kiatsomboon
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Sakhon Noimoon
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Urarikha Kongprom
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Itti Boonorana
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Santhita Karoon
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Jedsada Thawnern
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Apichaya Sakulthai
- Department of Farm Technology Management, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Panyapiwat Institute of Management, Nonthaburi 11120, Thailand
| | | | - Manakorn Sukmak
- Department of Farm Resources and Production Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Chainarong Punkong
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Nikorn Thongtip
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand; Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology, Science and Technology Postgraduate Education and Research Department Commission on Higher Education, Ministry of Education (AG-BIO/PERDO-CHE), Bangkok 10903, Thailand; Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand
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Charlton SJ, Nielsen MB, Pedersen CR, Thomsen L, Kristjansen MP, Sørensen TB, Pertoldi C, Strand J. Strong Heterogeneity in Advances in Cryopreservation Techniques in the Mammalian Orders. Zoolog Sci 2019; 35:1-22. [PMID: 29417894 DOI: 10.2108/zs170037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Between 1970 and 2012, vertebrate abundance has declined by 58% with an average annual decline of 2%, calling for serious action to prevent a mass extinction and an irreversible loss of biodiversity. Cryobanks and cryopreservation have the potential to assist and improve ex situ and in situ conservation strategies by storing valuable genetic material. A great deal of studies concerning cryopreservation have been performed within the class Mammalia, although no systematic overview has previously been presented. The objective of this study is therefore to evaluate the status, pattern and future of cryopreservation within Mammalia. A strong disproportional distribution of studies in examined orders is displayed. For the majority of examined orders less than 10% of species has been examined. However, the cryopreservation of germplasm has in several cases been successful and resulted in successful applications of assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). Various obstacles are associated with the development of cryopreservation protocols, and among them the most prominent is interspecific differences in cryotolerance. Extrapolation of protocols in closely related species is considered the most applicable procedure, and a future supplement to overcome this problem is the examination and comparison of cryobiological traits. Successful protocols have been developed for the vast majority of domesticated mammals, which gives incentive for the further extrapolation of protocols in threatened species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian J Charlton
- 1 Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mikkel B Nielsen
- 1 Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Carina R Pedersen
- 1 Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Lisette Thomsen
- 1 Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mads P Kristjansen
- 1 Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Thomas B Sørensen
- 1 Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Cino Pertoldi
- 1 Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark.,2 Aalborg Zoo, Aalborg, Mølleparkvej 63, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Julie Strand
- 3 Randers Regnskov, Randers, Tørvebryggen 11, 8900 Randers, Denmark
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4
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Monaco D, Zappia E, Apichaya S, Lacalandra GM, Thongtip N. Post-thawing effects of three cryopreservation diluents on Rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) spermatozoa. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 54:635-638. [PMID: 30472765 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate home-made and commercial extenders for the cryopreservation of Rusa deer semen. After collection by electroejaculation, six ejaculates were diluted and frozen in TES-based, Tris-based and Triladyl® extenders. Subjective motility, viability, morphology, acrosome integrity and membrane functionality were assessed post-thawing and after 1-hr incubation at 37°C (Thermal stress test). Total and progressive motility, and kinematic parameters were also assessed through CASA system. Post-thawing sperm progressive motility (PM), velocity according to the straight path (VSL) and linearity (LIN) showed significant differences, and higher values were detected for spermatozoa diluted with Triladyl® and TES (p < 0.05) as compared with Tris (PM of Triladyl® 14.7% vs. 3.2% TES and 2.5% Tris; VSL 56 for Triladyl® , 59.2 for TES and 41.7 for Tris; LIN 45.6 for Triladyl® , 52 for TES and 36.5 for Tris). Triladyl® and TES extender led to better post-thawing sperm parameters, but these preliminary results need to be verified through artificial insemination trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Monaco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (Di.Me.V.), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Eduardo Zappia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (Di.Me.V.), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, Italy.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Science, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Sudsukh Apichaya
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.,Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology, Science and Technology Postgraduate Education and Research Department Commission on Higher Education, Ministry of Education (AG-BIO/PERDO-CHE), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Giovanni M Lacalandra
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (Di.Me.V.), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Nikorn Thongtip
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Science, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.,Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.,Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology, Science and Technology Postgraduate Education and Research Department Commission on Higher Education, Ministry of Education (AG-BIO/PERDO-CHE), Bangkok, Thailand
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5
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Arnold DM, Gray C, Roth TL, Mitchell S, Graham LH. A simple, field-friendly technique for cryopreserving semen from Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 182:84-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2017] [Revised: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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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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7
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The in vitro quality of frozen-thawed Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) spermatozoa in semen supplemented with Equex STM paste and oxytocin during and after cryopreservation. Reprod Biol 2013; 13:169-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2013.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Accepted: 09/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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8
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Kiso WK, Asano A, Travis AJ, Schmitt DL, Brown JL, Pukazhenthi BS. Pretreatment of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) spermatozoa with cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrins and glycerol addition at 4°C improves cryosurvival. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 24:1134-42. [PMID: 22954260 DOI: 10.1071/rd11266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Asian elephant spermatozoa are sensitive to chilling and do not respond well to cryopreservation. The objectives of the present study were to: (1) determine whether cholesterol content can be modified by preincubation of Asian elephant spermatozoa with cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrin (CLC); and (2) assess the effects of CLC concentration(s), temperature at time of glycerol addition (22°C vs 4°C) and dilution medium on post-thaw sperm survival. Spermatozoa incubated with ≥1.5 mg CLC exhibited increased (P < 0.05) cholesterol concentrations. Pretreatment of spermatozoa with 1.5 mg CLC resulted in improvements (P < 0.05) in all post-thaw parameters. Glycerol addition at 4°C also improved all post-thaw parameters compared with 22°C. Dilution of thawed spermatozoa in an egg yolk-based medium improved (P < 0.05) motility compared with Ham's F-10 culture medium. In summary, our findings indicate that modifying cholesterol content within the plasma membrane improves the cryosurvival of Asian elephant spermatozoa. The development of an improved cryopreservation method that includes modification of membrane cholesterol and the addition of glycerol at 4°C, as reported in the present study, is an important step towards utilisation of cryopreserved spermatozoa in captive management of this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy K Kiso
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20008, USA.
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9
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Imrat P, Mahasawangkul S, Gosálvez J, Suthanmapinanth P, Sombutputorn P, Jansittiwate S, Thongtip N, Pinyopummin A, Colenbrander B, Holt WV, Stout TAE. Effect of cooled storage on quality and DNA integrity of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) spermatozoa. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 24:1105-16. [PMID: 22951013 DOI: 10.1071/rd11309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) is a potentially useful tool for breeding captive elephants because it facilitates efforts to minimise inbreeding. However, cooled storage of elephant semen markedly reduces fertility. This study compared the effects on semen-quality parameters, including sperm DNA fragmentation, of storing elephant semen at 4°C or 15°C in a commonly-used diluent (TEST) or a diluent developed to protect against sperm DNA damage (BullMax). Storing elephant semen for >24 h in either extender at either temperature resulted in decreases in sperm motility, viability, acrosome integrity and DNA integrity (P < 0.05); the decrease in motility was especially rapid. A subjective impression of circular sperm movement in TEST was confirmed by a higher curvilinear velocity and amplitude of lateral head displacement, but lower straight-line velocity and linearity than in BullMax. Initial percentages of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA (%SDF) did not differ between extenders or temperatures, but the rate of increase in %SDF during a 48-h incubation at 37°C was higher in TEST than in BullMax (P < 0.05). In conclusion, BullMax allows more linear movement and better preserves DNA stability of stored elephant spermatozoa than TEST. Sperm DNA stability during incubation at 37°C is a promising, discriminative parameter for selecting semen storage conditions of bulls for elephant AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Imrat
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Equine Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 114, 3584CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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10
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Hermes R, Saragusty J, Göritz F, Bartels P, Potier R, Baker B, Streich WJ, Hildebrandt TB. Freezing African elephant semen as a new population management tool. PLoS One 2013; 8:e57616. [PMID: 23483917 PMCID: PMC3590205 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0057616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The captive elephant population is not self-sustaining and with a limited number of breeding bulls, its genetic diversity is in decline. One way to overcome this is to import young and healthy animals from the wild. We introduce here a more sustainable alternative method - importation of semen from wild bulls without removing them from their natural habitat. Due to the logistics involved, the only practical option would be to transport cryopreserved sperm. Despite some early reports on African elephant semen cryopreservation, the utility of this new population management tool has not been evaluated. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Semen was collected by electroejaculation from 14 wild African savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana) bulls and cryopreserved using the directional freezing technique. Sperm treatments evaluated included the need for centrifugation, the use of hen or quail yolk, the concentration of glycerol (3%, 5% or 7%) in the extender, and maintenance of motility over time after thawing. Our results suggest that dilution in an extender containing hen yolk and 7% glycerol after centrifugation best preserved post-thaw sperm motility when compared to all other treatments (P≤0.012 for all). Using this approach we were able to achieve after thawing (mean ± SD) 54.6±3.9% motility, 85.3±2.4% acrosome integrity, and 86.8±4.6% normal morphology with no decrease in motility over 1 h incubation at 37°C. Sperm cryopreserved during this study has already lead to a pregnancy of a captive female elephant following artificial insemination. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE With working techniques for artificial insemination and sperm cryopreservation of both African and Asian elephants in hand, population managers can now enrich captive or isolated wild elephant populations without removing valuable individuals from their natural habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.
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11
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Imrat P, Suthanmapinanth P, Saikhun K, Mahasawangkul S, Sostaric E, Sombutputorn P, Jansittiwate S, Thongtip N, Pinyopummin A, Colenbrander B, Holt W, Stout T. Effect of pre-freeze semen quality, extender and cryoprotectant on the post-thaw quality of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) semen. Cryobiology 2013; 66:52-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2012.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2012] [Revised: 11/02/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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12
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O'Brien JK, Steinman KJ, Montano GA, Love CC, Saiers RL, Robeck TR. Characteristics of high-quality Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) ejaculates and in vitro sperm quality after prolonged chilled storage and directional freezing. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 25:790-7. [DOI: 10.1071/rd12129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Accepted: 07/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The in vitro quality of spermatozoa from one elephant (Elephas maximus) was examined after chilled storage and directional freezing (DF). High-quality, non-contaminated ejaculates (77.6 ± 6.0% progressive motility, 3.9 ± 1.5 µg creatinine mL–1 raw semen, 2.7 ± 0.6% detached heads) were cryopreserved after 0 (0hStor), 12 (12hStor) and 24 h (24hStor) of chilled storage. At 0 h and 6 h post-thawing, total motility, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial activity and normal morphology were similar (P > 0.05) across treatments. In contrast, progressive motility, rapid velocity and several kinematic parameters were lower (P < 0.05) for 24Stor compared with 0hStor at 0 h post-thaw. By 6 h post-thaw, amplitude of lateral head displacement and velocity parameters (average pathway, straight-line and curvilinear velocity) were lower (P < 0.05) for 24hStor compared with 0hStor and 12hStor. DNA integrity was high and remained unchanged (P > 0.05) across all groups and processing stages (1.6 ± 0.6% of cells contained fragmented DNA). Results indicate that DF after up to 12 h of chilled storage results in a post-thaw sperm population of acceptable quality for artificial insemination. These findings have implications for the cryopreservation of sex-sorted spermatozoa, which typically undergo more than 12 h of chilled storage prior to sorting and preservation.
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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: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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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14
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Kozdrowski R. The effect of trehalose on post-thaw viability and fertility of European brown hare (Lepus europaeus Pallas, 1778) spermatozoa. Anim Reprod Sci 2009; 116:326-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2009.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2008] [Revised: 01/14/2009] [Accepted: 02/16/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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15
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Successful cryopreservation of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) spermatozoa. Anim Reprod Sci 2009; 115:255-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2008] [Revised: 10/24/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Thongtip N, Mahasawangkul S, Thitaram C, Pongsopavijitr P, Kornkaewrat K, Pinyopummin A, Angkawanish T, Jansittiwate S, Rungsri R, Boonprasert K, Wongkalasin W, Homkong P, Dejchaisri S, Wajjwalku W, Saikhun K. Successful artificial insemination in the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) using chilled and frozen-thawed semen. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:75. [PMID: 19615097 PMCID: PMC2718890 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2009] [Accepted: 07/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artificial insemination (AI) using frozen-thawed semen is well established and routinely used for breeding in various mammalian species. However, there is no report of the birth of elephant calves following AI with frozen-thawed semen. The objective of the present study was to investigate the fertilizing ability of chilled and frozen-thawed semen in the Asian elephant following artificial insemination (AI). METHODS Semen samples were collected by from 8 bulls (age range, 12-to 42-years) by manual stimulation. Semen with high quality were either cooled to 4 degrees C or frozen in liquid nitrogen (-196 degrees C) before being used for AI. Blood samples collected from ten elephant females (age range, 12-to 52-years) were assessed for estrus cycle and elephants with normal cycling were used for AI. Artificial insemination series were conducted during 2003 to 2008; 55 and 2 AI trials were conducted using frozen-thawed and chilled semen, respectively. Pregnancy was detected using transrectal ultrasonography and serum progestagen measurement. RESULTS One female (Khod) inseminated with chilled semen became pregnant and gave birth in 2007. The gestation length was 663 days and the sex of the elephant calf was male. One female (Sao) inseminated with frozen-thawed semen showed signs of pregnancy by increasing progestagen levels and a fetus was observed for 5 months by transrectal ultrasonography. CONCLUSION This is the first report showing pregnancy following AI with frozen-thawed semen in the Asian elephant. Successful AI in the Asian elephant using either chilled or frozen-thawed semen is a stepping stone towards applying this technology for genetic improvement of the elephant population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikorn Thongtip
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Sittidet Mahasawangkul
- The National Elephant Institute, The Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
| | - Chatchote Thitaram
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiangmai University, Chiangmai 50100, Thailand
| | | | - Kornchai Kornkaewrat
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Anuchai Pinyopummin
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Taweepoke Angkawanish
- The National Elephant Institute, The Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
| | - Saran Jansittiwate
- The National Elephant Institute, The Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
| | | | - Khajornpat Boonprasert
- The National Elephant Institute, The Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
| | - Warut Wongkalasin
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiangmai University, Chiangmai 50100, Thailand
| | - Pongpon Homkong
- The National Elephant Institute, The Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
| | - Suthathip Dejchaisri
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Worawit Wajjwalku
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Kulnasan Saikhun
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhonpathom 73170, Thailand
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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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Thongtip N, Saikhun J, Mahasawangkul S, Kornkaewrat K, Pongsopavijitr P, Songsasen N, Pinyopummin A. Potential factors affecting semen quality in the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus). Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2008; 6:9. [PMID: 18346275 PMCID: PMC2276508 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-6-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2007] [Accepted: 03/17/2008] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the major obstacles in using artificial insemination to manage genetics of elephant population in captivity is the large variations in semen quality among ejaculates within the same and among individuals. The objectives of this study were to determine the influences of (1) age (2) seasonality (3) and circulating testosterone (SrTest), triiodothyronine (SrT3) and tetraiodothyronine (SrT4), as well as seminal (4) testosterone (SpTest), zinc (SpZn) and protein (SpTP) on semen quality in the Asian elephant METHODS Analyses, including motility, viability and morphology were performed in semen samples collected twice monthly from 13 elephant bulls (age range, 10-to 72-years) by manual stimulation between July 2004 and June 2005. Serum samples obtained monthly were assessed for SrTest, SrT3, SrT4, and seminal plasma samples were evaluated for, SpTest, SpZn and SpTP. RESULTS The highest semen quality was observed at age 23 to 43 years. Percentages of progressive motility and viable sperm were lowest at age 51 to 70 years (P < 0.05); on the other hand, sperm concentration was lowest at age 10 to 19 years (P < 0.05). Percentage of sperm with normal morphology was highest at age 23 to 43 years. The levels of SrT3, SrTest, SpTest and SpZn were lowest at age 51 to 70 years, whereas SrT4 was lowest at age 23 to 43 years. Seasonality significantly affected semen characteristics in which percentage of viable sperm and cell concentration were highest during rainy season and lowest during summer months (P < 0.05). However, percentage of sperm with normal morphology was highest in summer and lowest in rainy season (P < 0.05). Seasonality significantly influenced SrTest with elevated concentrations observed in rainy season and winter (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION This study indicates that age and seasonality had influence on semen characteristics in the Asian elephant. The knowledge obtained in this study will improve our understanding of the reproductive biology of this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikorn Thongtip
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Jumnian Saikhun
- Institute of Science and Technology for Research and Development, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhonpathom 73170, Thailand
| | | | - Kornchai Kornkaewrat
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
| | | | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Conservation and Research Center Smithsonian's National Zoological Park, USA
| | - Anuchai Pinyopummin
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhonpathom 73140, Thailand
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Lu JC, Chen F, Xu HR, Wu YM, Xia XY, Huang YF, Lu NQ. Is flow cytometry really adapted to the determination of sperm concentration? Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation 2007; 67:394-401. [PMID: 17558894 DOI: 10.1080/00365510601124032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
It has been reported that flow cytometry can be used as a reference procedure to determine sperm concentrations in quality control schemes in andrology laboratories, but there are no convincing quality control data. To understand comprehensively whether flow cytometry can be used to determine sperm concentration, sperm concentrations of 85 human semen samples were detected using three different methods, namely flow cytometry, computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) and manual counting with a cell-VU chamber. The bead concentrations of both low [(18+/-2.5)x10(6)/mL] and high [(35+/-5)x10(6)/mL] pre-calibrated standard latex bead solutions were also determined with flow cytometry. The results showed that bead concentrations of both low and high pre-calibrated standard latex bead solutions counted five times with flow cytometry were (21.37+/-0.85)x10(6)/mL and (45.95+/-1.76)x10(6)/mL, respectively. Coefficient variances (CVs) and relative errors (REs) were 4%, 15.51% and 3.84%, 31.3% for low and high latex bead solutions, respectively. The overall correlation between values measured with flow cytometry and values measured with the cell-VU chamber and the CASA system was significant. However, flow cytometry overestimated the sperm concentration by 109% compared to the results with the cell-VU chamber. Moreover, for the azoospermic samples analysed, the sperm concentration was estimated at 0.12 (range from 0.04 to 0.24)x10(6)/mL. In conclusion, the data demonstrated that flow cytometry can result in an overestimation of both bead counting and sperm concentration, suggesting that flow cytometry is an inappropriate method for sperm counting, especially in the case of azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-C Lu
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, P. R. China.
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Hermes R, Göritz F, Streich W, Hildebrandt T. Assisted Reproduction in Female Rhinoceros and Elephants ? Current Status and Future Perspective. Reprod Domest Anim 2007; 42 Suppl 2:33-44. [PMID: 17688600 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2007.00924.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Over the last few decades, rhinoceroses and elephants became important icons in the saga of wildlife conservation. Recent surveys estimate the wild Asian (Elephas maximus) and African (Loxodonta africana) elephant populations to be, at most, 50 250 and 637 600 respectively. For the five rhinoceros species, black (Diceros bicornis), white (Ceratotherium simum), Indian (Rhinoceros unicornis), Javan (Rhinoceros sondaicus) and Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus Sumatrensis), the population estimates of 3610, 11 330, 2400, 60 and 300, respectively, are of even greater concern. Protected against habitat loss, poaching and left undisturbed, rhinoceros and elephants reproduce well in the wild. But small and decreasing populations make successful captive management of these taxa increasingly important. In captivity, however, most populations face possible 'extinction' because of historically poor reproductive performance. From the first descriptions of the reproductive anatomy and the oestrous cycle (Laws 1969; Kassam and Lasley 1981; Balke et al. 1988a,b; Plotka et al. 1988; Godfrey et al. 1991) to the present use of advanced assisted reproduction technologies, researchers have strive to understand the function and dysfunction of the reproductive biology of these charismatic species. This paper reviewed the current knowledge on rhinoceros and elephant reproduction biology, reproductive cycle, gestation, dystocia, reproductive pathology, oestrous induction and artificial insemination, sperm sexing, IVF and contraception, and how this knowledge is or might be used to aid species conservation for maximal reproductive efficiency and enhancement of genetic management.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hermes
- Department of Reproductive Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo Biology and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.
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Fickel J, Wagener A, Ludwig A. Semen cryopreservation and the conservation of endangered species. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-007-0089-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Sa-Ardrit M, Saikhun J, Thongtip N, Damyang M, Mahasawangkul S, Angkawanish T, Jansittiwate S, Faisaikarm T, Kitiyanant Y, Pavasuthipaisit K, Pinyopummin A. Ultrastructural alterations of frozen-thawed Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) spermatozoa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 29:346-52. [PMID: 16533357 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2005.00578.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Intact plasma and acrosome membranes and functional mitochondria following cryopreservation are important attributes for the fertilizing ability of spermatozoa. In the present study, functional and ultrastructural changes of Asian elephant spermatozoa after cryopreservation either in TEST + glycerol or HEPT + dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) were evaluated by fluorescent techniques and electron microscopy. Sperm frozen in TEST + glycerol had higher proportion of sperm with intact plasma (49.1 +/- 9.2% vs. 30.9 +/- 3.9%) and acrosomal (53.7 +/- 4.9% vs. 35.8 +/- 6.1%) membranes, as well as active mitochondria (57.0 +/- 7.2% vs. 42.0 +/- 5.0%) than those cryopreserved in HEPT + DMSO. The results obtained from electron microscopy were similar to those obtained by fluorescence microscopy. The percentage of normal spermatozoa was higher when spermatozoa were frozen in TEST + glycerol than those frozen in HEPT + DMSO (31.8 +/- 5.6 vs. 28.5 +/- 6.4). The ultrastructural alterations revealed by transmission electron microscopy could be classified as (i) distension of plasma membrane, while the acrosome was swollen; (ii) disruption or loss of plasma membrane, while acrosome was swollen with distended outer acrosomal membrane; (iii) disruption or loss of plasma and outer acrosomal membrane with leakage of acrosome content; (iv) extensive vesiculation of plasma and outer acrosomal membrane and leakage of acrosome content; (v) a complete loss of both plasma membrane and outer acrosomal membrane; and (vi) swelling of mitochondria. These findings suggest that the freezing and thawing procedure caused structural damage to elephant spermatozoa, especially in the plasma membrane, acrosome and mitochondria. Fluorescence and electron microscopic evaluations are potentially a powerful tool in the analysis of elephant spermatozoa after freezing and thawing.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sa-Ardrit
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Nakorn Pathom, Thailand
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