Saturated, omega-6 and omega-3 dietary fatty acid effects on the characteristics of fresh, frozen-thawed semen and blood parameters in rams

Improving semen quality of rams fed with ration containing protected maggot oil

The study aimed to to evaluate the effect of feeding protected maggot oil at different levels on the ram sperm quality. The study used 15 local rams with an age of approximately 10-12 months and an initial weight of 19.99 ± 3.97 kg. The feeding rate was 4% of body weight per day. Feed was given 3 times a day, specifically in the morning (08.00 WIB), afternoon (12.00 WIB) and evening (16.00 WIB). Water was provided ad libitum. This study used 3 treatments and 5 groups as replicates. The treatments used concentrates with different levels of protected maggot oil: P0(0% protected maggot oil (control)), P1(4% protected maggot oil), and P2(8% protected maggot oil). The variables measured were nutrient consumption, blood cholesterol levels, scrotal circumference, and sperm quality. Blood cholesterol and scrotal circumference measured at the end of the experimental diet. Semen samples were collected and analysed before and at the end of the experimental diet. The data obtained were analysed using ANOVA, with further testing using Duncan's test for significant differences. The results showed that there were no significant differences in the consumption of dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, scrotal circumference, volume, colour, pH of semen, sperm concentration, live percentage, abnormal percentage, plasma membrane, and acrosome integrity of spermatozoa. There were significantly (p < 0.05) produced higher consumption of oleic and palmitic acids in 8% protected maggot oil compared to 4% treatments, the treatments containing 4% and 8% protected maggot oil produced significantly (p < 0.05) higher consumption of lauric and myristic acids, blood cholesterol levels, and sperm motility than the control. The result indicates that protected maggot oil up to 8% in the ram diet have positive effect on improving the microscopic quality of ram sperm, i.e. increased sperm motility.

The effect of increasing extruded linseed level on nutrient digestibility, growth, carcass characteristics, and non-carcass components of lambs from two genotypes

This research aimed to study the effect of extruded linseed level on digestibility, growth, carcass, and non-carcass components of two genotypes' lambs. For this, 36 lambs, with an average body weight (BW) of 21.3 ± 3.4 for Queue Fine de l'Ouest (QF) and 17.8 ± 2.9 kg for the cross QF × D'man (QF × D), were randomly divided into three groups of 12 lambs each (six per genotype) in a 12-week experiment. Sheep in each group received individually oat hay ad libitum and one of three concentrates containing 0% (control), 15% (L15), and 30% (L30) of extruded linseed on a dry matter basis. All concentrates were isocaloric and iso-nitrogenic. In the last 2 weeks, digestibility was measured, and then all lambs were slaughtered. The increasing level of extruded linseed did not affect hay and total dry matter (DM) intake as well as nutrient digestibility, except the neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility which was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced by the diet treatment (66.4, 57.8, and 53.0% for C, L15, and L30, respectively). In addition, the different linseed levels resulted in similar average daily gain, final BW, carcass traits, and non-carcass components except the rumen and liver weights which were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced by the increasing linseed level. However, the addition of extruded linseed improved (P < 0.05) the weight of the heart. The carcass tissular composition was not affected by the dietary treatment guarding a similar proportion of muscle, bone, and fat. However, the growth performance and carcass traits were higher for cross QF × D than QF lambs. In addition, the carcasses were leaner (less fat and more muscle) for the cross genotype (P < 0.05) than the pure QF breed. It was concluded that extruded linseed can be used in lamb diet without adverse effects on growth performance and carcass components. Furthermore, the cross could be planned given it resulted in higher growth and better carcass composition.

How Food Choices Impact on Male Fertility

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Increasing evidence on the significance of nutrition in reproduction is emerging from both animal and human studies, suggesting an association between nutrition and male fertility. Here, we have highlighted the impact of the various food groups on reproductive hormones and on spermatogenesis, and the effects of classical and latest dietary patterns such as Mediterranean diet, Western diet, intermittent fasting, ketogenic diet, and vegan/vegetarian diet on male fertility.

RECENT FINDINGS

Nutrients are the precursors of molecules involved in various body's reactions; therefore, their balance is essential to ensure the correct regulation of different systems including the endocrine system. Hormones are strongly influenced by the nutritional status of the individual, and their alteration can lead to dysfunctions or diseases like infertility. In addition, nutrients affect sperm production and spermatogenesis, controlling sexual development, and maintaining secondary sexual characteristics and behaviors. The consumption of fruit, vegetables, fish, processed meats, dairy products, sugars, alcohol, and caffeine importantly impact on male fertility. Among dietary patterns, the Mediterranean diet and the Western diet are most strongly associated with the quality of semen. Nutrients, dietary patterns, and hormonal levels have an impact on male infertility. Therefore, understanding how these factors interact with each other is important for strategies to improve male fertility.

Flaxseed oil modulates testicular biometrics, hormone, libido, antioxidant and semen profiles in endangered Teressa goat of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Teressa goat is a unique goat breed in Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI) of India. Effects of Flaxseed oil (FSO) supplementation in body weight (BW), scrotal circumference (SC), testicular volume (TV) and testicular weight (TW), endocrinological profiles, sex behavioural profiles (SBPs), oxidative stress markers and semen production and its quality profiles in rainy and dry summer season were studied in Teressa goat. Male goats (n = 12) of 3-4 years old were equally divided into control and treated groups. Treated animals received 25 mL FSO per day. Oral drenching of FSO was done in the morning before feeding the concentrate ration. Body weight, scrotal circumference, TV and TW were measured in bucks of FSO treated and untreated during rainy and dry summer seasons. Blood follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), cortisol and prolactin, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured in bucks of FSO treated and untreated during rainy and dry summer seasons. Libido score (LS), mating ability score (MAS) and sex behavioural score (SBS) were estimated at time of semen collection in bucks of FSO treated and untreated during rainy and dry summer seasons. Semen samples (n = 100; 50 semen samples from each season; each 25 semen samples from control and treatment groups per season) were collected and analysed for semen quality profiles. One-way ANOVA (control rainy, control dry, treated rainy and treated dry) revealed that BW, SC, TV and TW, FSH, LH, testosterone, TSH, T3 and T4 were higher (P < 0.05) and cortisol and prolactin were lower (P < 0.05) in FSO treated bucks of rainy season followed by untreated bucks of rainy season, FSO treated bucks of dry summer season and were lower (P < 0.05) in untreated bucks of dry summer season. Similarly, TAC, CAT, SOD and GSH, LS, MAS and SBS, and volume, pH, sperm concentration, mass activity, total motility (TM), viability, acrosomal integrity (AcI), plasma membrane integrity (PMI) and nuclear integrity (NI) were higher (P < 0.05) and MDA and TSA were lower (P < 0.05) in FSO treated bucks of rainy season followed by FSO treated bucks of dry summer season, untreated bucks of rainy season and were lower (P < 0.05) in untreated bucks of dry summer season. The results of the present study indicated that the breeding bucks suffered physiological stress (higher cortisol), oxidative stress (higher MDA and deficiency of antioxidants), hormonal imbalance (higher prolactin and cortisol and deficiency of gonadotropins, gonadal hormone and thyroid hormones) and infertility due to poor libido and poor semen production and its quality profiles during dry summer season. Thus, dry summer was more stressful season compared to rainy season for the goat bucks. FSO supplementation mitigated these stresses and improved the scrotal and testicular biometrics, libido, antioxidants, hormones and semen quality profiles in Teressa goat bucks. The current study concluded that FSO effectively improved the hormones, libido, antioxidant profiles, and scrotal and testicular biometrics with cascading beneficial effects on semen quality profiles in Teressa goat bucks under humid tropical island ecosystem of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Moringa oleifera leaf ethanolic extract benefits cashmere goat semen quality via improving rumen microbiota and metabolome

Background

Artificial insemination (AI) is an effective reproductive technique to improve the performance of cashmere goats and prevent the spread of diseases, and the quality of the semen determines the success of AI. The potential of Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) and Moringa oleifera leaf ethanolic extract (MOLE) to improve semen quality has been reported, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. For the purpose, 18 mature male cashmere goats were randomly assigned into three groups: the control (CON), MOLP, and MOLE groups. The CON group received distilled water orally; the MOLP group was orally treated with 200 mg/kg body weight (BW) MOLP; and the MOLE group was orally treated with 40 mg/kg BW MOLE.

Results

Results showed that MOLE contained long-chain fatty acids and flavonoids. Treatment with MOLP and MOLE increased the activities of the serum catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase (P < 0.05), enhanced the total antioxidant capacity (P < 0.05), and reduced the serum malondialdehyde level (P < 0.05). At the same time, MOLE increased the contents of serum gonadotropin releasing hormone and testosterone (P < 0.05). Moreover, MOLE significantly increased sperm concentration, motility, and viability (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, MOLE raised the Chao1 index (P < 0.05) and altered the composition of the rumen microbiota; it also raised the relative abundance of Treponema (P < 0.05) and Fibrobacter (P < 0.05) and reduced the relative abundance of Prevotella (P < 0.1). Correlation analysis revealed the genus Prevotella was significantly negatively correlated with sperm concentration, as well as sperm motility and viability. Furthermore, MOLE significantly increased the rumen levels of the steroid hormones testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (P < 0.05), as well as the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) alpha-Linolenic acid, gamma-Linolenic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, and 9-S-Hydroperoxylinoleicacid (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Oral MOLE supplementation can improve semen quality by increasing the antioxidant capacity and altering the rumen microbiota and metabolites of cashmere goats. Moreover, the MOLP supplementation could enhance the antioxidant capacity of cashmere goats.

Effect of dietary n-3 fatty acid and rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) supplementation on semen quality, sperm fatty acids and reproductive performance of aged male broiler breeders

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of dietary fish oil (FO) and rooibos supplementation on semen quality, fatty acids composition and reproductive performance of aged male broiler breeders. Seventy-two 47-week-old Ross broiler breeder roosters were randomly assigned to a 2 × 3 factorial arrangements to include two FO concentrations (0% and 2%) and 3 rooibos concentrations (0%, 1.5% and 3%) for 13 weeks consecutive. The different diets affected semen parameters significantly (p < 0.05), except for the semen concentration and abnormality of the sperm. The sperm of the FO and 3% rooibos-treated group showed better motility and viability when compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The susceptibility of semen to lipid peroxidation was increased in roosters fed the rooibos-free diets (p < 0.05), but it was reduced (p < 0.05) when the diet was supplemented with 1.5% and 3% rooibos. In addition, at 64 weeks, the highest concentration of testosterone was observed in the roosters fed a diet that included 2% FO and 3% rooibos (p < 0.05); however, the difference in testosterone levels between Week 52 and Week 64 was not significant (p > 0.05). The fertility rate of collected eggs from the FO and 3% rooibos group was higher (p < 0.05) than that of the other groups at the end of the experiment. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of FO along with rooibos improved seminal quality and reproduction performance in aged roosters.

Regulation of semen quality by fatty acids in diets, extender, and semen

Fatty acids (FAs) are classified into different types according to the degree of hydrocarbon chain saturation, including saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs) and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-6 PUFAs), which play an important role in maintaining semen quality. This review focuses on the regulation of FAs in semen, diet and extender on semen quality, and expounds its effects on sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, DNA integrity, hormone content, and antioxidant capacity. It can be concluded that there are species differences in the FAs profile and requirements in sperm, and their ability to regulate semen quality is also affected by the addition methods or dosages. Future research directions should focus on analyzing the FAs profiles of different species or different periods of the same species and exploring suitable addition methods, doses and mechanism of regulating semen quality.

Cryopreservation of Semen in Domestic Animals: A Review of Current Challenges, Applications, and Prospective Strategies

Cryopreservation is a way to preserve germplasm with applications in agriculture, biotechnology, and conservation of endangered animals. Cryopreservation has been available for over a century, yet, using current methods, only around 50% of spermatozoa retain their viability after cryopreservation. This loss is associated with damage to different sperm components including the plasma membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, proteins, mRNAs, and microRNAs. To mitigate this damage, conventional strategies use chemical additives that include classical cryoprotectants such as glycerol, as well as antioxidants, fatty acids, sugars, amino acids, and membrane stabilizers. However, clearly current protocols do not prevent all damage. This may be due to the imperfect function of antioxidants and the probable conversion of media components to more toxic forms during cryopreservation.

"Fine feathers make fine birds" - The mammalian sperm plasma membrane lipid composition and effects on assisted reproduction

The sperm plasma membrane is important in modulating many sperm functions. The sperm membrane is composed of a complex mixture of lipids including phospholipids, glycolipids and sterols. There are differences of sperm membrane composition among mammalian species with two groups differing in the most abundant polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), either docosahexaenoic (ω-3 PUFA) or docosapentaenoic acid (ω-6 PUFA). During testicular and epididymal maturation, composition of the sperm plasma membrane evolves with spermatozoa gaining the capacity for fertilization. The importance of fatty acid metabolism for complete spermatogenesis has been elucidated using gene knockout mice. During epididymal transit cholesterol content decreases and PUFA content increases, conferring more fluidity properties to the sperm membrane. The relatively lesser content of antioxidant enzymes and the relatively larger content of PUFA make the spermatozoa particularly susceptible to lipid peroxidation during sperm preservation. In numerous studies, there was adding of PUFA and antioxidants to the diet of animals or to semen extenders with the aim to improve sperm membrane integrity. This review highlights the current knowledge on the sperm membrane composition and effects on sperm function in mammalian domestic animals.

Carryover effects of feeding bulls with an omega-3-enriched-diet-From spermatozoa to developed embryos

The impact of omega-3 nutritional manipulation on semen cryosurvival and quality post thawing is controversial. Our aim was to examine how feeding bulls with omega-3 supplementation from different sources affects the spermatozoa quality parameters. Fifteen Israeli Holstein bulls were fed for 13 weeks with a standard ration top-dressed with encapsulated-fat supplementation: fish or flaxseed oil or saturated fatty acids (control). Ejaculates were collected before, during, and after the feeding trial. Frozen-thawed samples were evaluated by a flow cytometer for spermatozoa viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), acrosome membrane integrity, DNA fragmentation, phosphatidylserine translocation, and membrane fluidity. Both fish and flaxseed oil treatment resulted in lower ROS levels vs. control groups, during and after the feeding trial. Fewer spermatozoa with damaged acrosomes were observed in the fish oil group after the feeding trial. The spermatozoa membrane fluidity was altered in both the fish and flaxseed oil groups throughout the feeding trial, but only in the flaxseed oil group after the feeding trial. The proportion of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA was lower in the flaxseed oil group after the feeding trial. The spermatozoa fertilization competence did not differ between groups however, blastocyst formation rate was higher in the fish and flaxseed oil groups relative to the control. This was associated with differential gene expression in the blastocysts. Overall, the omega-3-enriched food improved the spermatozoa characteristics; this was further expressed in the developing blastocysts, suggesting a carryover effect from the spermatozoa to the embryos.

Cryopreservation of ram semen: Manual versus programmable freezing and different lengths of equilibration

The aim of our study was to examine effects of the length of semen equilibration as well as two freezing techniques on ram sperm post-thaw quality. The ejaculates of Wallachian sheep rams (n = 12) were collected by an electro-ejaculation, equilibrated in a Triladyl® (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h) containing glycerol and egg yolk and frozen by programmable freezing (PF) or manual freezing (MF). After thawing, sperm samples were subjected to the motility (computer-assisted sperm analysis [CASA]), viability (SYBR-14/PI), and fertilizing ability (FA) (in vitro penetration/fertilization test on bovine oocytes) assays. It was found that the equilibration of 6 h (E-6) ensured higher post-thaw sperm motility and progressive movement compared with other lengths tested, irrespective of a freezing technique. The E-6 sperm viability did not differ between PF and MF but was lower (P < 0.05) than control. Sperm FA (E-6) was similar in PF (60.44%) and MF (62%) but slightly lower than in fresh (72.8%). Our data demonstrate that the use of MF was comparable with PF, which can be applied in the field conditions without need in a piece of cost-expensive equipment, which can greatly benefit the gene bank of animal genetic resources.

Dietary supplementation of pumpkin seed oil and sunflower oil along with vitamin E improves sperm characteristics and reproductive hormones in roosters

This study evaluates the effects of pumpkin seed oil and sunflower oil along with vitamin E on the reproductive characteristics of aged roosters. Thirty Ross breeder roosters (45-wk-old) were assigned into 6 groups (5 birds/group) with the following diets: 1) control group (basal diet), 2) basal diet with 2% pumpkin seed oil as omega-3 fatty acid (PSO group), 3) basal diet with 2% sunflower oil as omega-6 fatty acid (SFO group), 4) basal diet with 200 mg/kg vitamin E (Control + vitE group), 5) basal diet and 2% pumpkin seed oil along with 200 mg/kg vitamin E (PSO + vitE group) and 6) basal diet and 2% sunflower oil along with 200 mg/kg vitamin E (SFO + vitE group). Roosters were fed on the experimental diets for 60 d and different characteristics of sperm characteristics including routine semen analysis and several sperm functional tests in every 20 d were examined. Reproductive hormones were also evaluated in 0 d and at the end of the trial. Semen volume and morphology were not affected by any of the diets. The roosters fed with pumpkin seed oil + vitE showed the higher percentage of sperm concentration, total motility, progressive motility, viability and membrane integrity and the lower lipid peroxidation (P ≤ 0.05). The group 5 (PSO + vitE) had numerically the lowest sperm with fragmented DNA (DNA Fr⁺) at 0 of the experiment and sperm with non-fragmented DNA (DNA Fr⁻) was lowest in group 6 (SFO + vitE) on da 40 the experiment. Testosterone level was not affected by the experimental diets (P > 0.05), however other hormones (LH and FSH) were affected. Based on the results, the supplementation of aged roosters’ diet with pumpkin seed oil + vitE improves reproductive performance which can be an appropriate strategy to preserve the reproductive performance of aged roosters.

Effects of increasing intake of soybean oil on synthesis of testosterone in Leydig cells

Background

Soybean oil is a very common edible oil in daily life. With the changes in the dietary composition, the intake of soybean oil increased. However, the effects of dietary intake of soybean oil on testosterone production are still unclear.

Methods

In order to study the effects of increasing intake of soybean oil on the synthesis of testosterone in Leydig cells, we fed male C57BL/6 mice on the diet which added 20% soybean salad oil (SOY group). We detected the hormone levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits and serum fatty acid composition by gas chromatography, and analyzed the expression of steroidogenic enzymes by Real-Time PCR or immunoblotting analysis.

Results

After the 16-week feeding period, serum linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA) significantly increased and serum palmitic acid (PA) significantly decreased in SOY group mice. Compared to the normal diet (ND group), increasing intake of soybean oil raised the luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and up-regulated luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor (LHCGR), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A member I (CYP11A1). Testosterone levels in SOY group were higher than that in the ND group, and significantly difference showed.

Conclusions

Increasing intake of soybean oil could raise the serum LA and ALA levels and decrease serum PA levels. This could activate the LH/LHCGR pathway and improve the function of steroid synthesis in Leydig cells, and finally lead to the elevated testosterone levels.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12986-021-00580-1.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Conjugated Linoleic Acids and Their Inclusion in Semen Extenders on Bovine Sperm Quality

Simple Summary

Suboptimal fertility in males accounts for about two-thirds of infertility cases, thus being of serious concern for the dairy industry, where optimal fertility is fundamental for farm profitability. Although genetic defects responsible for subfertility have been identified, the role of seminal compounds on fertility remain unclear. Feeding rumen-protected isomers of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) to dairy cows reportedly enhances circulating insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) levels. In breeding bulls, the IGF-I concentration in seminal plasma has been positively correlated with fertility rates. Therefore, the objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of dietary CLA supplementation and of their inclusion to the semen extender on bovine semen quality and freezability.

Abstract

Isomers of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) enhances circulating insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) levels. Furthermore, fertility rate of breeding bulls is positively correlated to seminal plasma IGF-I concentration. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of dietary CLA supplementation and inclusion to the semen extender on bovine semen quality and freezability. Fourteen bulls, randomly assigned to control (CTL) and CLA (50 g/day) groups, were supplemented for 10 weeks. Samples were collected at Weeks −2 (before supplementation), 0, 4, 6 (during supplementation), 10, and 11 (after supplementation). Blood and seminal plasma were analyzed for IGF-I; the ejaculates were frozen in the following subgroups: CTL (no addition to semen extender), CLA c9, t11 (50 µM), CLA c9, t11 (100 µM), CLA t10, c12 (50 µM), CLA t10, c12 (100 µM), and CLA mix (50 µM each of CLA c9, t11 and CLA t10, c12). Sperm motility, morphology, viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, and reactive oxidative species were assessed. CLA supplementation decreased ejaculates’ total volume, increased sperm concentration, beat cross frequency, and decreased oxidative stress; it also increased plasma and seminal plasma IGF-I levels compared to the CTL. The inclusion of CLA c9, t11 100 µM and CLA mixture in the extender increased live spermatozoa percentage post-thawing compared to other groups. Our results show a beneficial effect of CLA supplementation on semen quality; however, further studies evaluating fertilization rates are necessary to corroborate the results.

Increased quality of in natura and cryopreserved semen of water buffaloes supplemented with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from the palm oil industry

Ruminant energy supplementation with vegetable oils or fats has been standing out worldwide and oil palm processing has been receiving growing interest. This study assessed the effect of supplementation with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from the palm oil industry on the lipid profile of seminal plasma and of the sperm membrane, as well as on the morphological and functional characteristics of raw and cryopreserved buffalo semen. Twelve purebred Murrah bulls (Bubalus bubalis) were assigned to the experimental groups and fed diets for 120 days with no added lipids (CONT, four bulls), or with an extra amount of 3% lipids from crude palm oil (PALM, four bulls), or from palm oil deodorizer distillate (PODD, four bulls). Semen was collected and cryopreserved every 15 days. The lipid composition of membranes and semen quality were determined after collections. Lipid supplementation did not impact feed intake (P>0.05). Diet enrichment with PALM increased the linoleic acid (C18:2,ω6) in seminal plasma. Lipid supplementation did not increase the polyunsaturated fatty acids in the sperm membrane composition, but significantly increased the lignoceric acid (C24:0). Cryopreserved semen of the supplemented bulls presented higher progressive motility (60.2 vs. 67.9 vs. 65.2%; P<0.05) and sperm viability detected by eosin-nigrosin staining (61.1 vs. 69.4 vs. 67.8%; P<0.05). Palm oil reduced major sperm defects in both raw (12.2 vs. 9.3 vs. 13.2%; P<0.0001) and cryopreserved semen (12.4 vs. 9.4 vs. 11.2%; P<0.0001). The lipids added to the diet did not impact the population of spermatozoa with intact plasma and acrosomal membranes (PI-/PSA-), but significantly increased the percentage of spermatozoa with high mitochondrial potential (25.6 vs. 31.5 vs. 32.0%; P=0.008). The results suggest that lipid supplementation based on crude palm oil or palm oil deodorizer distillate can be safely used to feed buffalo bulls and may increase sperm attributes related to male fertility.

Short term chronic toxicity of tributyltin on the testes of adult albino rats and the possible protective role of omega-3

The declining rate of male fertility is a growing concern. Tributyltin (TBT) is a well-known endocrine disruptor (ED), that induces imposex in female gastropods and is widely used in various industrial applications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the toxic effects of TBT on the testes of adult albino rats and the possible role of omega-3. Forty two adult male albino rats were divided into five groups; control group (Group I) and four experimental groups: omega-3 treated group, TBT treated group, TBT & omega-3 treated group and follow up group. At the end of the study, the rats were subjected to biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical staining for Ki-67 and seminal examinations. Our results clarfied that TBT induced a significant decrease in testosterone, FSH, LH and serum glutathione peroxidase levels and a significant increase in the serum Malondialdehyde as compared to the control group. Tributyltin induced disorganization and shrinkage of seminiferous tubules, apoptosis, cellular damage and marked reduction in the germinal epithelium. A significant decrease in the cell proliferation and arrested spermatogenesis were also detected. Seminal analysis of TBT group showed a significant affection of all parameters as compared to other groups. Omega-3 ameliorated all of these hazardous effects. Follow up group still showed toxic effects. In conclusion, TBT has a toxic effect on the testis. Increased testicular oxidative stress, cellular damage and arrest of spermatogenesis with attenuation in antioxidant defenses are all contributing factors. Omega-3 can protect against TBT induced reproductive toxicity.

Inclusion of ovine enriched serum with vitamin E and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the freezing medium: a new strategy to improve human frozen-thawed sperm parameters

The objective was to evaluate the effect of inclusion of 2.5% and 5% ovine serum, enriched with vitamin E (Vit E) and fish oil (FO), in human sperm freezing medium. Serum samples were prepared from sixteen rams (n = 4) feeding on a without supplemented diet, and diets supplemented with Vit E, FO and Vit E + FO. Semen samples, from 60 normozoospermic men, were frozen in: (I) a commercial freezing medium (SpermFreeze™; control medium), (II) the commercial freezing medium containing foetal bovine serum, (III) the commercial freezing medium + nonenriched serum (serum group), (IV) the commercial freezing medium + Vit E enriched serum (Vit E group), (V) the commercial freezing medium + FO enriched serum (FO group) and (VI) the commercial freezing medium + Vit E + FO enriched serum (Vit E + FO group). Sperm total and progressive motility, morphology, viability and plasma membrane integrity were significantly higher (p ≤ .05) in Vit E and Vit E + FO groups compared with the control group. Mitochondrial membrane potential did not differ between treatments (p > .05). It was concluded that ovine serum enriched with vitamin E and vitamin E + FO improved the quality of human spermatozoa but enriched serum containing FO could not improve the sperm cryo-injuries.

Residual effect after salmon oil supplementation on semen quality and serum levels of testosterone in dogs

The objective of present study was to evaluate the effects of oral supplementation of salmon oil on seminal parameters and testosterone serum levels in dogs, following also the residual effects for 60 days after treatment. Nine healthy male dogs with proven fertility, weighing between 10 and 36 kg, ageing from 2 to 11 years, of different breeds, fed diets supplemented with salmon oil at the manufacturer's recommended dosage. The parameters measured were sperm volume, motility, vigour, normal morphology and concentration, live/dead ratio, membrane viability by means of HOST test and serum testosterone levels. Evaluations occurred at baseline (D0), after 90 days of supplementation (D90) and at the end of the experiment, 60 days after supplementation cessation (D150). Results (mean ± SD) obtained at time D0, D90 and D150 were as follows: motility of 76.66% ± 13.7, 92.77 ± 4.41 and 93.0 ± 7.90 (p = .001); normal spermatozoa of 69.11% ± 24.90, 90.00% ± 5.15 and 80.66 ± 16.04 (p = .05); live/dead (%) from 64.44 ± 22.86 to 85.33 ± 8.41 (p = .001); and spermatozoa (%) with integral membrane in the membrane integrity (HOST) test ranging from 76.44 ± 20.74 to 91.22 ± 4.68 (p = .05). Serum levels of testosterone (ng/ml) increased from 5.50 ± 1.13 to 8.84 ± 1.13 at D90 (p = .003) and decreased after 2 months (D150) to 5.13 ± 1.13. In conclusion, a 90-day supplementation with salmon oil had a positive influence on semen quality and serum testosterone levels. The supplementation of omegas 3 and 6 at the ratio of 10:1 for 90 days determined an increase in concentration and motility of the sperm, and these effects were maintained for 60 days, with the only exception of testosterone levels.

Flaxseed oil modulates semen production and its quality profiles, freezability, testicular biometrics and endocrinological profiles in mithun

Mithun (Bos frontalis) is a unique domestic free range bovine species of North Eastern Hilly (NEH) regions of India. Effect of feed supplementation of Flaxseed oil (FSO) on semen production and its quality profiles, freezability, oxidative stress, apoptotic sperm percentage and subsequently on endocrinological profiles & scrotal and testicular biometrics in different seasons was studied in mithun. The experimental animals were divided into two groups, Gr I: Control (n = 3) and Gr II: Treatment (n = 3; Flaxseed oil @ 150 mL/day). FSO was supplemented through oral drench in the morning hours just before concentrate feeding. A total of 80 semen samples (n = 80; 20 semen samples from each season; each 10 semen samples from control and treatment groups per season) were collected, not more than twice per week in winter, spring, autumn and summer seasons. Semen quality profiles (SQPs) such as volume, sperm concentration, motility (forward progressive and total), motility & velocity profiles by computer assisted sperm analyser (CASA), viability, total sperm abnormality, acrosome integrity, plasma membrane & nuclear abnormality and apoptotic sperm percentage were estimated in fresh semen. Along with SQPs measured in fresh semen, motility in estrus bovine cervical mucus (bovine cervical mucus penetration test; BCMPT) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) by JC-1 stain were determined in the post-thawed semen samples. Biochemical profiles (aspartate aminotransferase; AST, alanine aminotransferase; ALT, total cholesterol; CHO), antioxidant profiles (superoxide dismutase; SOD, catalase; CAT, glutathione; GSH, total antioxidant capacity; TAC) and oxidative stress profile (malondialdehyde; MDA) were estimated in fresh semen whereas AST, ALT, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), TAC and MDA were estimated in the frozen thawed semen samples. Endocrinological profiles such as follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, cortisol and thyroxin and scrotal circumference (SC) & testicular biometrics were measured in both groups in different seasons. Result revealed a significant (p < 0.05) improvement in motility (total & forward progressive, motility & velocity by CASA and vanguard distance in cervical mucus), viability, intactness of acrosome & plasma membrane, MMP, antioxidant profiles and reduction in total sperm and nuclear abnormalities, reduction in leakage of intracellular enzymes and reduction in oxidative stress profile and reduction of apoptotic sperm percentage were observed in FSO supplemented than in un-supplemented control group accordingly in fresh and post thawed semen samples. Blood FSH, LH, testosterone and thyroxin concentration were significantly (p < 0.05) increased and cortisol concentration was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in FSO supplemented group than in unsupplemented control group. Similarly, SC and testicular biometrics were increased significantly (p < 0.05) in supplemented than unsupplemented group for different seasons and significantly (p < 0.05) higher in winter and spring than in summer season in the experimental groups. It can be concluded from the study that supplementation of FSO can effectively be utilized to improve the antioxidant profiles, reduction of oxidative stress with cascading beneficial effects on SQPs and fertility status of the mithun bull.

The influence of dietary sunflower oil, rich in n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, in combination with vitamin C on ram semen parameters, sperm lipids and fertility

BACKGROUND

Dietary fats, fed to ruminant animals, have been observed to improve reproductive function. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), over 60% of which is linoleic acid (C18:2). With regard to recommendations for increased consumption of PUFAs, special emphasis has been given to the importance of consuming more antioxidants to prevent lipid peroxide formation. This study evaluated the effects of dietary n-6 PUFAs and vitamin C (VC) in rams - in particular, on semen quality, blood metabolites, sperm lipids and overall fertility.

RESULTS

Diets supplemented with SFO and VC increased the proportion of motile sperms and their progressive motility improved (P < 0.01). Rams fed a diet containing SFO had an increased proportion of sperms with normal acrosomes in their semen samples (P < 0.01). The highest levels of lactate dehydrogenase activity (LDH) enzyme were found in control rams (2.60 U mL^-1 ). Feeding SFO significantly affected blood triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations (P < 0.05). Diets containing SFO increased the proportion of C18:2c, C20:4, C20:3 and C22 in the sperm lipid composition (P < 0.05). Semen of SFO and VC-fed rams was more fertile than that of control rams when it was artificially inseminated to ewes.

CONCLUSION

Feeding rams with supplemental SFO and VC increased semen quality and improved fertility rates. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Dietary supplementation with flaxseed oil as source of Omega-3 fatty acids improves seminal quality and reproductive performance in aged broiler breeder roosters

Reproductive performance in aged broiler breeder roosters is not desirable. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of dietary flaxseed oil and vitamin E on the semen parameters, hormonal profiles, fatty acid analysis of sperm, and fertility performance of aged roosters. Twenty four roosters were assigned into four treatments and received their diets as following: 1) basal diet as control group (CTRL), 2) basal diet supplemented with 200 mg/kg vitamin E (CTRL + VITE), 3) basal diet supplemented with 2% flaxseed oil (FLAX) and 4) basal diet supplemented with 2% flaxseed oil plus 200 mg/kg vitamin E (FLAX + VITE). Roosters were fed their diets for 60 days and then, different characteristics of reproduction in the roosters were examined during experiment. Different diets affected semen parameters (P ≤ 0.05) except semen volume and morphology. Various characteristics of semen were significant (P ≤ 0.05) during different times of experiment excluding the total motility, membrane integrity and morphology. The higher percentage of sperm concentration, total motility, progressive motility, viability and membrane integrity accorded with a lower lipid peroxidation were observed in the roosters fed diet of FLAX + VITE (P ≤ 0.05). A higher concentration of testosterone was detected in roosters fed FALX + VITE at day 60 (P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, the percentage docosapantaenoic acid (DPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) of sperm were increased in the diet of FLAX (P ≤ 0.05). Finally, rate of fertility after artificial insemination was significantly higher in the diet of FLAX + VITE. It seems that supplementation of aged roosters' diet with flaxseed oil and VITE improves the semen performance and fertility potential that can be a suitable strategy to preserve the reproductive performance of aged rooters.

Effect of feeding pomegranate seed oil as a source of conjugated linolenic acid on Arabian stallion semen quality in cooled and postthawed condition

The objective was to assess the influence of pomegranate seed oil supplementation on the quality of fresh, cooled and frozen-thawed Arabian breed stallion semen. Eight stallions (n = 4 per group) received their normal diet (control group) or normal diet top dressed with 200 ml of pomegranate seed oil (PSO group). Semen was collected every fifteen days for 90 days. Stallions were reversed across the treatments after a sixty-day interval. In cooled and stored condition (2, 12 and 24 hr), spermatozoa motion characteristics, membrane integrity, viability, morphology and lipid peroxidation were analysed. In frozen-thawed semen, sperm dynamic characteristics were analysed by CASA, acrosome status and mitochondrial activity (evaluated by Flow cytometry) determined. The effects of treatment, time, semen type and their interactions were submitted to PROCMIX (SAS^® ), and means compared by the Tukey test. Also, collected semen samples were artificially inseminated to evaluate fertility and pregnancy rate after day 60 of the experiment. The results from fresh condition showed that semen volume, sperm concentration, abnormality and live sperm were not affected by dietary treatment (p > 0.05). In cooled condition, the higher value for sperm plasma membrane integrity and viability was observed in PSO group compared to control after 24 hr cooled and stored in 5°C. In postthawed condition, the higher value for CASA total motility and acrosome status was observed in PSO group compared to control group (p < 0.05). One hundred and twenty-six mares were artificially inseminated for fertility trial using control and PSO groups' fresh semen. The average pregnancy rates were not significantly different between control and treated group (62.88% and 65.90%, respectively) (p > 0.05). We concluded that under the conditions of this study, dietary supplementation of 200 ml pomegranate seed oil seems to relatively improved Arabian horse sperm quality during storage in cooled and frozen condition via increasing plasma membrane integrity, viability and acrosome status, but did not improve the pregnancy rates.

Dietary patterns, foods and nutrients in male fertility parameters and fecundability: a systematic review of observational studies

BACKGROUND

Infertility is a global public health issue, affecting 15% of all couples of reproductive age. Male factors, including decreased semen quality, are responsible for ~25% of these cases. The dietary pattern, the components of the diet and nutrients have been studied as possible determinants of sperm function and/or fertility.

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE

Previous systematic reviews have been made of the few heterogeneous low-quality randomized clinical trials (RCTs) conducted in small samples of participants and investigating the effect of specific nutrients and nutritional supplements on male infertility. However, as yet there has been no systematic review of observational studies.

SEARCH METHODS

A comprehensive systematic review was made of the published literature, from the earliest available online indexing year to November 2016, in accordance with the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. We have included cross-sectional, case-control and prospective and retrospective studies in which fertile/infertile men were well defined (men with sperm disorders, sperm DNA damage, varicocele or idiopathic infertility). The primary outcomes were semen quality or fecundability. With the data extracted, we evaluated and scored the quality of the studies selected. We excluded RCTs, animal studies, review articles and low-quality studies.

OUTCOMES

A total of 1944 articles were identified, of which 35 were selected for qualitative analysis. Generally, the results indicated that healthy diets rich in some nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, some antioxidants (vitamin E, vitamin C, β-carotene, selenium, zinc, cryptoxanthin and lycopene), other vitamins (vitamin D and folate) and low in saturated fatty acids and trans-fatty acids were inversely associated with low semen quality parameters. Fish, shellfish and seafood, poultry, cereals, vegetables and fruits, low-fat dairy and skimmed milk were positively associated with several sperm quality parameters. However, diets rich in processed meat, soy foods, potatoes, full-fat dairy and total dairy products, cheese, coffee, alcohol, sugar-sweetened beverages and sweets have been detrimentally associated with the quality of semen in some studies. As far as fecundability is concerned, a high intake of alcohol, caffeine and red meat and processed meat by males has a negative influence on the chance of pregnancy or fertilization rates in their partners.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS

Male adherence to a healthy diet could improve semen quality and fecundability rates. Since observational studies may prove associations but not causation, the associations summarized in the present review need to be confirmed with large prospective cohort studies and especially with well-designed RCTs.

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Male Ruminant Reproduction - A Review

Fatty acids such as n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are critical nutrients, used to improve male reproductive performance through modification of fatty acid profile and maintenance of sperm membrane integrity, especially under cold shock or cryopreservation condition. Also, PUFA provide the precursors for prostaglandin synthesis and can modulate the expression patterns of many key enzymes involved in both prostaglandin and steroid metabolism. Many studies carried out on diets supplemented with PUFA have demonstrated their capability to sustain sperm motility, viability and fertility during chilling and freezing as well as improving testis development and spermatogenesis in a variety of livestock species. In addition to the type and quantity of dietary fatty acids, ways of addition of PUFA to diet or semen extender is very crucial as it has different effects on semen quality in male ruminants. Limitation of PUFA added to ruminant ration is due to biohydrogenation by rumen microorganisms, which causes conversion of unsaturated fatty acids to saturated fatty acids, leading to loss of PUFA quantity. Thus, many strategies for protecting PUFA from biohydrogenation in rumen have been developed over the years. This paper reviews four aspects of PUFA in light of previous research including rumen metabolism, biological roles, influence on reproduction, and strategies to use in male ruminants.

Effects of supplemental conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) on fresh and post-thaw sperm quality of Holstein bulls

This study was designed to investigate the effects of feeding-protected conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on the semen production and sperm freezability in Holstein bulls. Twelve bulls were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 6 per group). Bulls received the normal diet (control group) or the normal diet top-dressed with 50 g of CLA (treated group) for 10 weeks. The control group received 40 g/day calcium soap of fatty acid. Fresh and post-thaw semen quality was assessed on ejaculates collected at the 0, 4, 6, 8 and 10 week of supplementation. Semen evaluations including sperm concentration, motion characteristics (subjective and computer-assisted), viability (Eosin-Nigrosin), membrane integrity (hypo-osmotic swelling test) and abnormality were conducted. Semen volume, sperm concentration and total sperm output were not affected by dietary treatment (p > .05). The proportion of spermatozoa with abnormal morphology in fresh semen significantly increased (p < .05) in the CLA-fed group compared to control group. Also, in CLA-fed group, the proportion of post-thaw spermatozoa with abnormal morphology at week 10 of trial was significantly higher in CLA than control group (p < .05). Progressive motility tended to be increased in the CLA-fed group, although dietary supplementation did not affect other CASA parameters or viability in fresh and frozen-thawed sperm. In this study, CLA supplementation had little positive effect on fresh or post-thaw sperm quality of Holstein bulls.

Effect of dietary fish oil with or without vitamin E supplementation on fresh and cryopreserved ovine sperm

This study was carried out to determine whether dietary fish oil (FO) with or without vitamin E (VE) supplementation would have a beneficial effect on characteristics of fresh and cryopreserved ovine sperm. Sixteen rams were allotted to four groups and fed one of the four diets: control diet (CON; without FO and VE supplementation), VE diet supplying 200 IU VE/day.ram, FO diet containing 2.5% (dry matter basis) FO, and OVE diet containing FO and VE. Semen samples were collected at Weeks 7, 9 and 11 for evaluation of seminal quality. Frozen samples from Weeks 9 and 11 were subjected to computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA). Seminal volume, percentage of sperm with normal morphology and intact acrosome and seminal concentration of malondialdehyde were increased in FO rams (P < 0.05). In VE rams, semen volume and percentage of morphologically normal sperm were higher compared with CON rams; however, in OVE rams these attributes were not different from those in CON rams. Other traits in fresh semen were not affected by the diet. Fish oil alone negatively affected the sperm viability, but not motility, of the frozen–thawed semen; however, simultaneous supplementation with FO and VE resulted in increased percentage of morphologically normal sperm, motility, and viability. The percentages of CASA type A (showing rapid progressive motility) and type B (showing medium progressive motility) sperm were higher in OVE compared with other groups. Vitamin E supplementation decreased the beat-cross frequency values compared with other groups. Other CASA parameters were not affected by the diets. In conclusion, dietary FO and VE in the breeding season of ram, generally, do not cause significant changes in fresh sperm quality but, for cryopreservation of sperm, supplementation of the diet with an antioxidant such as VE may be beneficial when polyunsaturated fatty acids are added to the diet.

Dietary supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) improves seminal antioxidant status and decreases sperm DNA fragmentation

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) dietary supplementation on semen quality, fatty acid composition, antioxidant capacity, and DNA fragmentation. In this randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study, 74 subjects were recruited and randomly assigned to either the placebo group (n=32) or to the DHA group (n=42) to consume three 500-mg capsules of oil per day over 10 weeks. The placebo group received 1,500 mg/day of sunflower oil and the DHA group 1,500 mg/day of DHA-enriched oil. Seminal parameters (semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and vitality), total antioxidant capacity, deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation, and lipid composition were evaluated prior to the treatment and after 10 weeks. Finally, 57 subjects were included in the study with 25 in the placebo group and 32 in the DHA group. No differences were found in traditional sperm parameters or lipid composition of the sperm membrane after treatment. However, an increase in DHA and Omega-3 fatty acid content in seminal plasma, an improvement in antioxidant status, and a reduction in the percentage of spermatozoa with deoxyribonucleic acid damage were observed in the DHA group after 10 weeks of treatment.

Effect of omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched diet on plasma IGF-1 and testosterone concentration, puberty and semen quality in male buffalo

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of omega-3 and omega-6 PUFA enriched diet on plasma IGF-1 and testosterone concentrations, puberty, sperm fatty acid profile and semen quality in male buffalo. Eighteen male buffalo calves were distributed randomly in three different groups and fed concentrate mixture along with green fodder and wheat straw in 50:40:10 ratios as per requirements. Basis ration of animals in group I was supplemented with 4% of prilled fat (PFA), while in group II and group III were added 4.67% of Calcium salt from Soybean (CaSFA) and Linseed oil (CaLFA), respectively. Male buffalo fed omega-3 PUFA high diet significantly increased concentrations of IGF-1 and testosterone in plasma as compared to two other diets (p<0.05). The age of puberty and scrotal circumference significantly increased by dietary fat effect (p<0.05) of which n-3 PUFA enriched diet (CaLFA) had the largest influence as compared to other diets (PFA and CaSFA). Feeding of n-3 PUFA rich diet significantly increased the DHA (C22:6n-3) content in sperm (p<0.05), which contributed to increased fluidity of plasma membrane, elevated quality of sperm (motility, viability) and in vitro fertility (plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity) in both fresh and post-thawing semen. These findings indicate that feeding of n-3 PUFA enriched diet increased IGF-1 and testosterone secretion, reduced pubertal age and improved both fresh and post-thawing semen quality in male buffalo.

Effect of supplementation of feed with Flaxseed (Linumusitatisimum) oil on libido and semen quality of Nilli-Ravi buffalo bulls

Background

The current study was designed to investigate the effect of supplementation of Flaxseed (Linumusitatisimum) oil on libido and semen quality of Nilli-Ravi buffalo bulls.

Methods

In this study, 12 adult healthy bulls kept at the Semen Production Unit, Qadirabad district Sahiwal, were used. These bulls were divided into three equal groups, A, B and C. Group A was kept as control, while in groups B and C supplementation of feed was provided by using flaxseed oil @125 ml/day and 250 ml/day,respectively for 12 weeks. Two ejaculates per animal were collected at 0 day then 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th week of treatment. In this way a total 216 samples were taken, and each semen sample was evaluated for color, volume, mass activity, percent motility, sperm cell concentration per ml, percentage of live sperm, and plasma membrane integrity. Libido of bulls was also evaluated before every collection.

Results

Analysis of data revealed that these parameters were significantly (P < 0.01) increased in flax oil treated animals as compared to control.

Conclusion

It was concluded from the present study that flax seed oil has beneficial effects on reproductive health of buffalo bull.

Dietary Vitamin E Is More Effective than Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acid for Improving The Kinematic Characteristics of Rat Sperm

Objective

Although key roles for dietary vitamin E (VITE) and fatty acid (FA) in fertility have been confirmed, limited data are available on the effects of VITE alone, or a constant level of VITE supplemented by dietary omega-6 and omega-3 FAs in combination on male reproduction. Consequently in this paper, the effects of VITE, sunflower oil, fish oil and their combination on rat sperm were investigated.

Materials and Methods

We divided 50 mature male Wistar rats into 5 groups (n=10) in a experimental completely randomized design for eight weeks: i. Control (CTR): standard diet; ii. Vitamin E diet (VITE): 2 times greater than recommendations; iii. Sunflower oil group (n-6) [gavaged with 0.5 ml/day/rat sunflower oil+VITE diet]; iv. Fish oil group (n-3): [gavaged with 0.5 ml/day/rat fish oil+VITE diet] and v. n-3+n-6 group [gavaged with 0.3 ml fish oil/day/rat+0.2 ml sunflower oil/day/rat+VITE diet]. The sperm parameters were measured by computer assisted semen analyzer (CASA). All data were analyzed with SPSS software.

Results

Feed intake decreased in groups which were administered sunflower oil compared with the other groups (P<0.05). The groups which received only VITE or fish oil+VITE had a significantly higher concentration of sperm compared with the n-6+n-3 and CTR group (P<0.05). VITE and n-3 showed significant improved progressive motility compared to the CTR group, whereas the n-6 and n-6+n-3 groups were in the middle (P<0.05). The highest sperm kinematic parameters were observed in the VITE only group. There was no strong correlation between sperm parameters and blood lipid profiles.

Conclusion

Dietary VITE and fish oil+VITE can improve sperm quality. Our findings can be a focus for improvements in sperm quantity and motility in fertile animals using only dietary VITE.

Dietary fatty acids affect semen quality: a review

Mammalian spermatozoa are characterized by a high proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) which play a crucial role in fertilization. This review focuses on analysis of sperm fatty acid profiles and the effects of omega-3, saturated and trans dietary and sperm fatty acids on sperm parameters. Two major points have been pivotal points of investigation in the field of sperm fatty acid profiles: first, the comparison between fatty acid profiles of fertile and infertile men and second, the effect of dietary fatty acids on sperm fatty acid profiles as well as sperm quality and quantity. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3), and palmitic acid (C16:0) are the predominant PUFA and saturated fatty acids, respectively, in human sperm cells. Higher levels of DHA are concentrated on the sperm's head or tail varying among different species. However, the human sperm head contains a higher concentration of DHA. Dietary fatty acids influence on sperm fatty acid profiles and it seems that sperm fatty acid profiles are most sensitive to dietary omega-3 PUFA. Although improvements in sperm parameters are a response to omega-3 sources after more than 4 weeks of supplementation in the male diet, time-dependent and dose-dependent responses may explain the failure in some experiments. In human spermatozoa, elevated saturated or trans fatty acid concentration and a low DHA level is a concern. The regulations of the sperm fatty acid mean melting point as well as expression regulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG) alongside with spermatozoon assembly, anti-apoptosis effects, eicosanoid formation, and hormone activity are the putative key factors that induce a response by inclusion of omega-3 PUFA.