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Zhang L, Wang X, Jiang C, Sohail T, Sun Y, Sun X, Wang J, Li Y. Effects of Different Diluents and Freezing Methods on Cryopreservation of Hu Ram Semen. Vet Sci 2024; 11:251. [PMID: 38921998 PMCID: PMC11209232 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11060251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different diluents and freezing methods on the quality of thawed sperm after cryopreservation and find an inexpensive and practical method for freezing Hu ram semen for use in inseminations under farm conditions. Ejaculates were collected from five Hu rams. In experiment I, ejaculates were diluted with eight different freezing diluents (basic diluents A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H). After dilution and cooling, the samples were loaded into 0.25 mL straws and frozen using the liquid nitrogen fumigation method. In experiment II, diluent C was used as the basic diluent and the semen was frozen using liquid nitrogen fumigation and two program-controlled cooling methods. For analysis, frozen samples were evaluated in terms of motility parameters (total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM)), biokinetic characteristics (straight-line velocity (VSL), average path velocity (VAP), curvilinear velocity (VCL), amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH), wobble movement coefficient (WOB), average motion degree (MAD)), reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, and membrane and acrosome integrity. In experiment I, diluent C had higher TM, PM, and acrosome and membrane integrity and lower ROS compared to other extenders (p < 0.05) except diluent A. Diluent C exhibited higher (p < 0.05) VCL, VAP, ALH, WOB, and MAD compared to diluents B, D, E, and F. In experiment II, TM and all biokinetic characteristics did not show significant differences (p > 0.05) amongst the three freezing methods. Liquid nitrogen fumigation resulted in higher (p < 0.05) PM, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, and lower ROS level compared to the program. In conclusion, the thawed semen diluted with diluent C had higher quality compared to other diluents. The liquid nitrogen fumigation demonstrated superior semen cryopreservation effects compared to the program-controlled cooling method using diluent C.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yongjun Li
- Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics and Molecular Breeding of Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; (L.Z.); (X.W.); (C.J.); (T.S.); (Y.S.); (X.S.); (J.W.)
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Carneiro JDS, Motheo TF. Pharmacological semen collection in domestic and wild canids and felids: literature review. Anim Reprod 2024; 20:e20230036. [PMID: 38380384 PMCID: PMC10878541 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0036] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Semen collection methods vary greatly and rely on the practitioner's expertise, available materials, and the specific behavioral traits of the male animals involved. When it comes to domestic cats, wild felids, and canids, semen collection is particularly challenging. Thus, given the difficulty of semen collection in these species, pharmacological semen collection (PSC) stands out since it is a quick and straightforward method that does not require specific equipment. The PSC consists of administering α2-adrenergic receptor agonist drugs, mainly medetomidine, and dexmedetomidine, aiming semen release into the urethra with posterior urethral catheterization and sperm recovery. This technique was primarily described in domestic cats and wild felids, and despite the decreased seminal volume, the retrieved semen is highly concentrated and presents good quality. However, further studies are required to optimize semen collection in domestic dogs and wild canids. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the research developed on pharmacological semen collection (PSC) in the past few decades. The objective is to equip professionals with the essential knowledge required for the efficient application of this technique in both domestic and wild canids and felids and to make a valuable contribution to conservation efforts and the preservation of biodiversity, aligning with the principles of One Conservation.
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Comizzoli P, Amelkina O, Chavez DR, Rowlison TR, Lee PC. Current knowledge in the biology of gametes and embryos from Carnivora. Theriogenology 2023; 196:254-263. [PMID: 36434847 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In addition to companion animals and laboratory species, about 270 carnivore species play fundamental ecological roles in different ecosystems. However, almost 40% of carnivore species are now threatened or endangered in the wild because of human activities. While protection of natural habitats is critical, it is equally important to better understand carnivore reproduction, including a solid knowledge in sperm, oocyte, and embryo biology, to maintain sustainable populations in the wild and in conservation breeding centers. Characterizing gamete and embryo biology is also needed to develop cryopreservation and assisted reproductive technologies to enhance conservation efforts. The objective of this review is to provide the most recent knowledge in the biology of sperm cells, oocytes, and early embryos across all carnivore families. Overall, most data originate from populations maintained in breeding centers or zoos. Characterizations of sperm biology and cryopreservation are far more advanced than for oocytes and embryos. Currently, sperm biology is mainly studied in Canids, Felids, Ursids, and Mustelids, with more emphasis on structural than functional properties. Importantly, fundamental studies of gamete and embryo biology in domestic dogs, cats, and ferrets have paved the way for more precise characterizations in wild counterparts as well as the development of cryopreservation and assisted reproductive technologies. A striking feature of spermatozoa across a wide range of Canids and Felids is the presence of teratospermia (>60% of abnormal sperm cells), which is related to the loss of genetic diversity in some populations. Although sperm structures differ across carnivore families, sperm biology remains difficult to compare because of the small amount of data in many species. Regarding oocyte biology and embryology, data are much scarcer than in sperm cells, with too few studies going beyond structural descriptions. More carnivore species and more individuals (especially from wild populations in addition to captive ones) must be studied to improve our understanding about comparative germplasm biology and develop adequate conservation breeding strategies including the use of cryobanking and assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington DC, USA.
| | - Olga Amelkina
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington DC, USA
| | - Daniela R Chavez
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington DC, USA
| | - Tricia R Rowlison
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington DC, USA
| | - Pei-Chih Lee
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington DC, USA
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Jorge-Neto PN, Luczinski TC, de Araújo GR, Requena LA, de Jesus RS, Souza LSB, Zanella R, da Costa e Silva EV, de Deco-Souza T, Pizzutto CS. Cryopreservation of jaguar ( Panthera onca) sperm cells using different cryoprotectants and different thawing temperatures. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230009. [PMID: 37034116 PMCID: PMC10075188 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The cryopreservation of jaguar semen must be improved to produce high-quality biobanking doses. Until now, the rare studies of semen freezing in the species have only evaluated glycerol, always with a significant reduction in sperm quality in thawed semen. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of three cryoprotectants, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), glycerol (GLY), and methanol (MET), in the cryopreservation of jaguar semen in an LDL-based extender, as well as the effect of thawing temperature on dosage quality. Five mature males with a history of reproduction were used. On the males, an infrared thermal image (IRT) was captured, the spicules and testes were analyzed, and the CASA system was used to evaluate the quality of fresh and thawed sperm. The superficial IRT was 4.6 ± 1.2 °C cooler than the anal sphincter, and the semen measured between 27.3 and 28.7 °C shortly after exiting the urethra. The total motility of fresh sperm was 55.3 ± 22.6%, and progressive motility was 36.3 ± 18%. The total motility of thawed sperm was 5.28 ± 2.51%, 4.49 ± %2.49, and 0.51 ± 0.62% for DMSO, GLY, and MET, respectively. DMSO and GLY performed better than MET, and there was no difference in thawing temperature (37°C 30 s vs. 50°C 12 s). All animals exhibit a considerable level of morphological changes in sperm. Low amounts of total and progressive motility were found in the thawed sperm. Males with a high level of sperm morphological changes were found to be fertile, but the lone male with normospermia was infertile. Thus, we contest the applicability of the commonly used morphological classification for bovines to felid species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Nacib Jorge-Neto
- Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
- Corresponding author:
| | - Thiago Cavalheri Luczinski
- Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
- No Extinction, Corumbá de Goiás, GO, Brasil
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Centro Universitário de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brasil
| | - Gediendson Ribeiro de Araújo
- Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
- Biotério Central, Faculdade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | | | | | - Larissa Schneider Brandão Souza
- Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Ricardo Zanella
- Escola de Ciências Agrárias, Inovação e Negócios, Universidade de Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo, RS, Brasil
| | | | - Thyara de Deco-Souza
- Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Cristiane Schilbach Pizzutto
- Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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de Carvalho JC, Souza FF, Kastelic JP, Ferreira JCP. Reproduction in South American wild canids—A review. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:986030. [PMID: 36353253 PMCID: PMC9637898 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.986030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Canids occupy the top of the food chain and are fundamental in sustaining a wild animal/environmental balance. South America, the most biodiverse continent, has 11 species of canids inhabiting diverse biomes, with or without overlapping territories. Although several species are threatened, little is known about their reproductive biology. Remarkably, basic knowledge regarding ejaculate characteristics, sexual behavior, female reproductive cycles, pregnancy and management, and parturition are scarce or absent. These gaps complicate or preclude development of conservation programs. This review compiles the current knowledge of the reproductive biology of South American canids and discusses implications of this scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline Candido de Carvalho
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
- Santo Amaro University, UNISA, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Ferreira Souza
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - John Patrick Kastelic
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - João Carlos Pinheiro Ferreira
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
- *Correspondence: João Carlos Pinheiro Ferreira
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6
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Bovine ICSI: limiting factors, strategies to improve its efficiency and alternative approaches. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:749-767. [PMID: 36082429 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an assisted reproductive technique mainly used to overcome severe infertility problems associated with the male factor, but in cattle its efficiency is far from optimal. Artificial activation treatments combining ionomycin (Io) with 6-dimethylaminopurine after piezo-ICSI or anisomycin after conventional ICSI have recently increased the blastocyst rate obtained. Compounds to capacitate bovine spermatozoa, such as heparin and methyl-β-cyclodextrin and compounds to destabilize sperm membranes such as NaOH, lysolecithin and Triton X-100, have been assessed, although they have failed to substantially improve post-ICSI embryonic development. Disulfide bond reducing agents, such as dithiothreitol (DTT), dithiobutylamine and reduced glutathione, have been assessed to decondense the hypercondensed head of bovine spermatozoa, the two latter being more efficient than DTT and less harmful. Although piezo-directed ICSI without external activation has generated high fertilization rates and modest rates of early embryo development, other studies have required exogenous activation to improve the results. This manuscript thoroughly reviews the different strategies used in bovine ICSI to improve its efficiency and proposes some alternative approaches, such as the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as 'biological methods of oocyte activation' or the incorporation of EVs in the in vitro maturation and/or culture medium as antioxidant defence agents to improve the competence of the ooplasm, as well as a preincubation of the spermatozoa in estrous oviductal fluid to induce physiological capacitation and acrosome reaction before ICSI, and the use of hyaluronate in the sperm immobilization medium.
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7
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Semen collection, evaluation, and cryopreservation in the bonobo (Pan paniscus). BMC ZOOL 2022; 7:12. [PMID: 37170297 PMCID: PMC10127325 DOI: 10.1186/s40850-022-00110-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Captive breeding of bonobos (Pan paniscus) has proven to be successful, but maintaining genetic diversity remains a challenge. Cryopreservation of semen is an important potential tool to maintain genetic diversity by preserving current genetic material for future use, as well as facilitating the transport and exchange of genetic material. This study aimed to develop a protocol for semen collection and cryopreservation in the bonobo. Semen was collected from four healthy adult bonobos under general anesthesia during management translocation procedures. Semen collection utilizing urethral catheterization was not successful (n = 1), however, all males (n = 4) responded well to rectal probe electro-ejaculation. Immediately after collection, ejaculates were evaluated for color and admixtures, volume, motility, and concentration. Eosin-Nigrosin staining was prepared to evaluate morphology and viability. Ejaculates were split into two equal volumes and cryopreserved in two different extenders, using a one-step and a two-step approach. Ejaculates were gradually cooled to 4 °C in two hours, subsequently stored in liquid nitrogen vapor for twenty minutes (0.25 ml straws), and finally dropped into liquid nitrogen.
Results
Pre-freeze evaluation showed thick, white samples with an average ejaculate volume of 450 µl (100-1000 µl), total motility of 59% (40–80%), viability of 69% (38–85%) and 58% (46–72%) normal spermatozoa. Mainly head (22%) and tail (19%) defects were detected on the Eosin-Nigrosin stain. Ejaculates were highly concentrated, nevertheless, due to the coagulum that caused high viscosity and non-homogenous fractions, only estimations of concentration could be made (1000 million/ml). After 24 h of storage, the post-thaw evaluation showed a loss of quality with an average post-thaw total motility of 15% (5–25%) using the one-step freezing medium, and 19% (5–30%) using the two-step medium. Average post-thaw viability was 15% (4–24%) and 21% (15–29%), respectively.
Conclusions
This report on ejaculates from bonobos obtained by rectal probe electro-ejaculation shows that semen parameters of this species are not completely similar to those of its sibling species, the chimpanzee. Further studies are necessary to develop an optimal protocol for the processing and cryopreservation of bonobo spermatozoa.
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8
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Cerdeira J, Castaño C, Pérez JF, Marcos-Beltrán JL, Guerra R, López-Fernández M, Torija E, Rodríguez A, Martínez-Nevado E, Toledano-Díaz A, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, Santiago-Moreno J. Vitrification of Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) sperm: A possible alternative to conventional cryopreservation. Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 235:106887. [PMID: 34798241 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Sperm vitrification is a simple, inexpensive method that allows the cryopreservation of sperm in the field and for endangered species is a useful alternative to conventional freezing. The study, therefore, is focused on the suitability of vitrification for cryopreserving Iberian wolf sperm and utilizing plasma testosterone concentration as a marker for procedure efficacy. Sperm and blood samples were collected from 17 wolves. There were 14 samples suitable for cryopreservation (12 ejaculated and two epididymal). Immediately after collection, these samples were proportioned into two aliquots for conventional freezing using a Tris-citric acid-glucose based extender (TCG) or vitrification utilizing an animal protein free extender (HTF®). Vitrification occurred by directly plunging a sperm suspension into liquid nitrogen. Sperm were assessed for motility, membrane integrity, acrosomal status and DNA integrity before and after cryopreservation. With both techniques, there were similar post-thaw/warming results (P > 0.05) with respect to progressive motility, kinetic variables VCL, VSL, VAP and BCF, DNA fragmentation, sperm membrane functionality and morphological abnormalities. Total motile sperm, progression ratios LIN, STR, and WOB, the ALH, sperm viability and sperm with intact membrane and acrosome were greater (P < 0.05) in the conventional frozen-thawed sperm than vitrified-warmed sperm. Plasma testosterone concentrations varied from 0.0 ng/mL to 7.7 ng/mL. For epididymal sperm, sperm motility and viability following thawing were greater in vitrified-warmed samples than conventionally-frozen samples; however, small sample numbers precluded statistical analysis. When considered together, these results indicate vitrification may be a possible alternative for wolf sperm cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cerdeira
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, UCM, Madrid, Spain
| | - C Castaño
- Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - J F Pérez
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, UCM, Madrid, Spain
| | - J L Marcos-Beltrán
- Consejería de Desarrollo Rural y Recursos Naturales Principado de Asturias, Spain
| | | | | | | | - A Rodríguez
- Centro de Fauna Irrecuperable Kuna Ibérica, Navas del Rey, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - M J Sánchez-Calabuig
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, UCM, Madrid, Spain.
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9
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Amstislavsky SY, Mokrousova VI, Okotrub SV, Brusentsev EY, Naprimerov VA. Application of the Cryobank Concept to Wild and Endangered Carnivora Species. Russ J Dev Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360421040020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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10
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Nagashima JB, Songsasen N. Canid Reproductive Biology: Norm and Unique Aspects in Strategies and Mechanisms. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:653. [PMID: 33804569 PMCID: PMC8001368 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The reproductive physiology of canids is unique compared to other mammalian species. Specifically, the reproductive cycle of female canids is characterized by extended periods of proestrus and estrus followed by obligatory diestrus and protracted ovarian inactivity (anestrus). Although canid reproduction follows this general pattern, studies have shown variations in reproductive biology among species and geographic regions. Understanding of these differences is critical to the development of assisted reproductive technologies including estrus induction, gamete rescue, and embryo production techniques for canid conservation efforts. This review summarizes current knowledge of canid reproduction, including estrus cyclicity, seasonality, and seminal traits, with the emphasis on species diversity. The application of reproductive technologies in wild canid conservation will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer B. Nagashima
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630, USA;
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11
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Diaz-Jimenez M, Wang M, Wang W, Isachenko E, Rahimi G, Kumar P, Mallmann P, von Brandenstein M, Hidalgo M, Isachenko V. Cryo-banking of human spermatozoa by aseptic cryoprotectants-free vitrification in liquid air: Positive effect of elevated warming temperature. Cell Tissue Bank 2021; 23:17-29. [PMID: 33608835 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-021-09904-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Cryoprotectant-free vitrification is a common method for spermatozoa cryopreservation by direct plunging into liquid nitrogen. However, the commercial liquid nitrogen could be potentially contaminated by microorganisms. Warming temperature plays an essential role for quality of human spermatozoa after vitrification. This study aimed to evaluate comparatively a quality spermatozoa after vitrification in liquid nitrogen and clean liquid air as well as with two warming rates: at 42 °C and 45 °C. After performing of routine swim-up of normozoospermia samples, spermatozoa from the same ejaculate were divided into two groups: vitrified in liquid nitrogen (LN) and sterile liquid air (LA). Spermatozoa of LN group were warmed at 42 °C, and spermatozoa of LA groups were divided and warmed at 42 °C (LA42) and 45 °C (LA45). Then spermatozoa motility, reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and viability were assessed. It was no found significant differences in quality of spermatozoa from LN and LA groups in the motility, ROS, MMP, RNS rates after warming at 42 °C. A tendency to obtain better spermatozoa quality was found with using of warming by 42 °C in comparison with 45 °C. It was concluded that cryoprotectant-free vitrification by direct dropping of human spermatozoa into clean liquid air can be used as an alternative to cooling in liquid nitrogen. Warming of spermatozoa at 42 °C allows to preserve the spermatozoa physiological parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Diaz-Jimenez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany.,Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine Surgery, University of Cordoba, 14071, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Mengying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wanxue Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Evgenia Isachenko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gohar Rahimi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Peter Mallmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Melanie von Brandenstein
- University Clinic for Urology and Urological Oncology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Hidalgo
- Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine Surgery, University of Cordoba, 14071, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Vladimir Isachenko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
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12
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Nagashima JB, Ferraz MDAMM, Kamen SH, Songsasen N. Investigating media that support red wolf ( Canis rufus) sperm viability and capacitation in vitro. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2020; 1:83-92. [PMID: 35128425 PMCID: PMC8812450 DOI: 10.1530/raf-20-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The red wolf is a critically endangered canid, with ~250 and ~20 individuals in the ex situ and reintroduced wild populations, respectively. Assisted reproductive technologies such as sperm cryopreservation and in vitro fertilization therefore represent critically-needed tools to manage these populations. However, the motility of post-thaw red wolf sperm rapidly declines during in vitro incubation, hindering the ability to develop these technologies. In this study, we evaluated the influence of several culture media (a modified canine capacitation medium (mCCM), a modified North Carolina State University-23 medium (mNCSU-23), a synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF), a fertilization Tyrode's medium base or Fert-TALP (FERT), and a TRIS-based buffer (TRIS)) on the survival and capacitation of red wolf sperm during extended (18 h) incubation at 38.5°C and 5% CO2. Red wolf sperm motility averaged (±s.e.m.) 73.8 ± 7.1% at the time of collection, and was better maintained over 4 h incubation in mCCM (55.0 ± 9.8%) and mNCSU-23 (54.7 ± 10.4), compared to mSOF (43.8 ± 8.3%), FERT (30 ± 10.5), and TRIS (16.4 ± 4.1%) solutions. Patterns of tyrosine phosphorylation signal, as assessed via immunocytochemistry, indicated induction of capacitation between 2 and 4 h in vitro culture. Tyrosine phosphorylation signal was particularly robust in mCCM and mNCSU-23 incubated sperm, although significant acrosome exocytosis was not observed in response to progesterone supplementation after 3 h incubation in any of the media. In sum, results indicate mCCM and mNCSU-23 are promising base media for the in vitro incubation and capacitation of red wolf sperm, for assisted reproduction applications. Lay summary Development of assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization and artificial insemination is of high importance to the genetic management of critically endangered species such as the red wolf (Canis rufus). However, these technologies require the ability to maintain sperm viability and function during extended incubation, which has not been successful for the red wolf thus far. In this study, various culture media developed for sperm/egg/embryo culture in large mammalian species were evaluated for their ability to maintain red wolf sperm motility under physiological incubation conditions. Media and conditions previously utilized for domestic dog sperm were found to best support sperm incubation and capacitation (process of becoming competent to fertilize an egg) in the red wolf, representing a key step for future development of assisted reproductive technologies for the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer B Nagashima
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
| | - Marcia de Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA.,Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Bayern, Germany
| | - Sarah H Kamen
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA.,Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Longwood University, Farmville, Virginia, USA
| | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
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Carvalho JCD, Silva FED, Rizzoto G, Dadalto CR, Rolim LS, Mamprim MJ, Souza FFD, Teixeira CR, Kastelic JP, Ferreira JCP. Semen collection, sperm characteristics and ultrasonographic features of reproductive tissues in crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous). Theriogenology 2020; 155:60-69. [PMID: 32622206 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to condition adult male crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) to allow semen collection by digital manipulation of the penis, assess sperm characteristics, and use ultrasonography to assess and measure testes and prostate and determine echotexture, as well as hemodynamics of testicular and spermatic cord arteries. Five captive C. thous (2-5 y, ∼7 kg) were used. After conditioning for digital sperm collection, 13 ejaculates were obtained from two males. Ejaculate characteristics (mean ± SD) were volume (393.2 ± 178.0 μL), concentration (463.7 ± 594.4 × 106 sperm/mL), total sperm number (217.4 ± 304.0 × 106 sperm), total motility (68.0 ± 6.1%), progressive motility (48.8 ± 5.1%) and rapid sperm (57.2 ± 6.8%). The most prevalent sperm morphological defects were abnormal acrosome, small abnormal head, and diadem defect. Under chemical restraint, testes and prostate were evaluated with B-mode and spectral Doppler ultrasonography. Based on ultrasonography, testicular volumes were (2.2 ± 0.7 and 2.1 ± 0.7 cm3 for left and right testes, respectively), whereas prostate dimensions were 2.3 ± 0.4 cm long and 1.5 ± 0.3 cm thick. Lastly, using triplex Doppler, peak systolic velocity (PSV) was higher in testicular versus intratesticular arteries. In conclusion, adult male C. thous were conditioned to allow sperm collection by digital manipulation without urine contamination, enabling evaluation of sperm characteristics. Furthermore, B-mode ultrasound facilitated evaluation of testes and prostate morphometry and echotexture, whereas Doppler was used to characterize testicular blood flow. This was proof of concept for semen collection and baseline data for future male reproductive soundness examinations and development of assisted reproductive techniques in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline Candido de Carvalho
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Anesthesiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernando Evaristo da Silva
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Rizzoto
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Carmell Rezende Dadalto
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Luna Scarpari Rolim
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Anesthesiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Jaqueline Mamprim
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Ferreira de Souza
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos Roberto Teixeira
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Anesthesiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - John Patrick Kastelic
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - João Carlos Pinheiro Ferreira
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
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14
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Franklin AD, Waddell WT, Behrns S, Goodrowe KL. Estrous cyclicity and reproductive success are unaffected by translocation for the formation of new reproductive pairs in captive red wolves (Canis rufus). Zoo Biol 2020; 39:230-238. [PMID: 32476169 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated possible female-related causes for inconsistent success among reproductive pairs in the zoo-based red wolf (Canis rufus) population. Females (n = 13) at seven institutions were assessed for evidence of ovulation and normal reproductive cycles through the measurement of estradiol and progesterone metabolite excretion in feces. Fecal cortisol metabolites (FCM) were also measured. Factors potentially affecting FCM and/or estrous cyclicity were recorded, including exhibit status (on vs. off), reproductive history (proven vs. unproven), copulatory behaviors (ties observed: yes or no), pregnancy/parturition (pups or no pups produced), and translocation before the observed breeding season (yes or no). No differences were observed in baseline FCM between females housed on versus off-exhibit (p = .46) or between females producing pups and those who did not (p = .19). Baseline FCM were significantly lower among females observed in copulatory ties compared to females never observed in a tie (p = .04), and tended to be higher in females translocated before the breeding season compared to females in existing reproductive pairs (p = .11), and among historically unproven females compared to proven females (p = .11). All females evaluated had an endocrine profile indicative of ovulation and among the four females translocated to be paired with a new male before the breeding season, two had successful pregnancies, producing litters. Therefore, despite observed differences in baseline FCM among factors, estrous cyclicity and reproductive success are unaffected by translocation for the formation of new reproductive pairs in the zoo-based red wolf population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley D Franklin
- Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Tacoma, Washington.,AZA Reproductive Management Center, Saint Louis Zoo, Saint Louis, MO
| | | | - Sue Behrns
- Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Tacoma, Washington
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15
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de Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz M, Nagashima JB, Noonan MJ, Crosier AE, Songsasen N. Oviductal Extracellular Vesicles Improve Post-Thaw Sperm Function in Red Wolves and Cheetahs. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3733. [PMID: 32466321 PMCID: PMC7279450 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) is a valuable tool for ex situ wildlife conservation, allowing the re-infusion and dissemination of genetic material, even after death of the donor. However, the application of AI to species conservation is still limited, due mainly to the poor survival of cryopreserved sperm. Recent work demonstrated that oviductal extracellular vesicles (oEVs) improved cat sperm motility and reduced premature acrosomal exocytosis. Here, we build on these findings by describing the protein content of dog and cat oEVs and investigating whether the incubation of cryopreserved red wolf and cheetah sperm with oEVs during thawing improves sperm function. Both red wolf and cheetah sperm thawed with dog and cat oEVs, respectively, had more intact acrosomes than the non-EV controls. Moreover, red wolf sperm thawed in the presence of dog oEVs better maintained sperm motility over time (>15%) though such an improvement was not observed in cheetah sperm. Our work demonstrates that dog and cat oEVs carry proteins important for sperm function and improve post-thaw motility and/or acrosome integrity of red wolf and cheetah sperm in vitro. The findings show how oEVs can be a valuable tool for improving the success of AI with cryopreserved sperm in threatened species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Beth Nagashima
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
| | - Michael James Noonan
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
- The Irving K. Barber School of Arts and Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, 1177 Research Road, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Adrienne E. Crosier
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
| | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
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16
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Kuczmarski AH, Alves de Barros M, Souza de Lima LF, Motheo TF, Bento HJ, Iglesias GA, Sônego DA, Rodrigues da Paz RC. Urethral catheterization after pharmacological induction for semen collection in dog. Theriogenology 2020; 153:34-38. [PMID: 32417609 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The α-adrenergic agents are known to influence erection and ejaculation, and ejaculatory reflex is a primarily α-adrenergically mediated event. This paper aims to describe the urethral catheterization technique after pharmacological induction for semen collection in domestic dogs. For dose determination, semen collection was performed using increasing doses of dexmedetomidine (5 μg/kg, n = 2; 10 μg/kg, n = 2 and 15 μg/kg, n = 2) associated to 3 mg/kg ketamine in six animals. Once the dose was established, additional semen collection using association of 15 μg/kg dexmedetomidine and 3 mg/kg ketamine was carried out in eight dogs. After the procedure, sperm volume (0.092 ± 0.03 mL), total motility (58.33 ± 8.7%), vigor (1.89 ± 0.309), sperm concentration (1186.67 ± 304.667 × 106 sperm/mL), sperm plasma membrane integrity (83.22 ± 4.82%), acrosomal integrity (73 ± 6.187%) and normal sperm morphology (53.22 ± 5.6%) were assessed. Thus, this study demonstrates that urethral catheterization after pharmacological ejaculation using dexmedetomidine-ketamine association can be performed in dogs and it may be possible to obtain good semen quality, despite urine contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Henrique Kuczmarski
- Wildlife Research Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil.
| | - Marisol Alves de Barros
- Veterinary Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Luiz Felipe Souza de Lima
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Tathiana Ferguson Motheo
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, Faculty of Agronomy and Zootechinic, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Heitor José Bento
- Wildlife Research Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Accardi Iglesias
- Wildlife Research Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Dábila Araújo Sônego
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Regina Celia Rodrigues da Paz
- Wildlife Research Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
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