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Al-Kass Z, Morrell JM. Freezing Stallion Semen-What Do We Need to Focus on for the Future? Vet Sci 2024; 11:65. [PMID: 38393083 PMCID: PMC10893461 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11020065] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) is used frequently in the breeding of sport horses, apart from Thoroughbreds. Most AIs are carried out with cooled semen rather than frozen semen because of the difficulties in identifying a protocol that is suitable for freezing most ejaculates and the necessity to inseminate close to ovulation because of the short life of the thawed spermatozoa. More widespread use of frozen semen would improve biosecurity, allow greater choice of stallions, and offer more flexibility when managing deliveries of semen to the stud. It would even decrease the amount of antibiotics used in semen extenders, since the volume of frozen semen is smaller than when cooled semen is inseminated. However, there is considerable variability in the cryosurvival of spermatozoa from different stallions, leading to the classification of stallions as good or bad freezers. Improvements could be made at the level of stallion nutrition, the semen collection regimen, the extender, the removal of seminal plasma, and the cooling protocol, among others. Stallion sperm membranes are highly susceptible to lipid peroxidation, but research on antioxidants has failed to identify an additive that would benefit all stallions. In the future, biomarkers for sperm freezability could be used as an aid in identifying suitable ejaculates for cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyad Al-Kass
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7054, SE-75007 Uppsala, Sweden;
- Department of Surgery and Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul, Mosul 41002, Iraq
| | - Jane M. Morrell
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7054, SE-75007 Uppsala, Sweden;
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Gloria A, Cunto M, Zambelli D, Bracco C, Ballotta G, Contri A. Cushioned and high-speed centrifugation improve sperm recovery rate but affect the quality of fresh and cryopreserved feline spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2024; 215:195-204. [PMID: 38096623 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.12.009] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The development of endoscopic transcervical catheterization (ETC) in the queen increases the interest in handling fresh and cryopreserved feline semen. The ETC requires a small volume of the insemination dose with a high concentration, not easily reached with the actual frozen technique in this species. Centrifugation is widely used to concentrate spermatozoa for several purposes, but this process is detrimental to spermatozoa. This study verified the effects of conventional and cushioned centrifugation on fresh and cryopreserved feline spermatozoa. To this, semen was collected from 20 toms, grouped in seven pools and diluted. After dilution, the pools were divided into two aliquots, the first used for centrifugation on fresh semen, and the second, after freezing, on cryopreserved semen. Centrifugation regimens were: conventional at 500×g, conventional at 1000×g, and cushioned (iodixanol) at 1000×g. The sperm recovery rate was calculated for the three centrifugation regimens, and sperm kinematics, membrane and acrosome integrity, and plasma membrane stability on viable spermatozoa were assessed as endpoints. The data reported in this study showed that the centrifugation at 500×g resulted in negligible effects on both fresh and cryopreserved spermatozoa, but the lower recovery rate (62.4 ± 3.1 % and 60.2 ± 1.6 %, respectively) underlines the loss of a large proportion of spermatozoa, unfavourable in a species with small total sperm ejaculated. On the other hand, the centrifugation at 1000×g improved the recovery rate (86.9 ± 4.3 % and 89.8 ± 2.4 % in fresh and cryopreserved samples, respectively), but was more deleterious for feline spermatozoa, especially in cryopreserved samples (i.e. total motility of 40.7 ± 5.4 % compared with 57.2 ± 9.8 % in cryopreserved uncentrifuged samples, P < 0.05), resulting in artificial insemination doses of lower quality. The recovery rate in cushioned centrifugation appeared less efficient, likely due to the small volume of feline samples, which makes difficult the separation of sperm pellet and cushioned fluid. Interestingly, in cryopreserved samples centrifuged at 1000×g the number of viable spermatozoa with membrane destabilization (31.3 ± 3.2 %) was greater than uncentrifuged (4.1 ± 0.7 %, P < 0.05) and those centrifuged at 500×g (9.8 ± 1.3 %, P < 0.05), suggesting modifications induced by the cryopreservation amplifies centrifugation sublethal damage on feline spermatozoa. Cushioned centrifugation on cryopreserved samples showed kinematics similar to uncentrifuged samples, but higher viable spermatozoa with membrane destabilization (37.4 ± 3.4 % vs 4.1 ± 0.7 %; P < 0.05). In felines, g-force is crucial for sperm recovery rate during centrifugation, with better results at 1000×g; on the other hand, greater g-forces could have a significant impact on the quality of feline insemination dose, especially in cryopreserved samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Gloria
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Marco Cunto
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064, Italy
| | - Daniele Zambelli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064, Italy.
| | - Claudia Bracco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giulia Ballotta
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064, Italy
| | - Alberto Contri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy
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Tiwari S, Srivastava R, Kulkarni NA, Raval K, Patidar P, Fernandes A, Bhakat M, Mohanty TK. Filtration techniques are advantageous over colloidal centrifugation in improving freezability of low-quality buffalo bull ( Bubalus bubalis) ejaculates. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:2835-2845. [PMID: 36112062 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2022.2121715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The study compared efficacy of three sperm selection techniques in improving freezability of low-quality Murrah buffalo bull ejaculates. Sephadex (SEP), Sephadex ion-exchange filtration (SIE), and 40/80% BoviPure™ (BP) gradient centrifugation protocols were standardized (ejaculates, n = 24). In Experiment-I, Sephadex G-75, G-100, and combined Sephadex G (75-100) column filtrates were compared. In Experiment-II, BP protocols: 200 g-10 min, 250 g-5, and 10 min, 300 g-10, and 15 min were compared. In fresh semen, Sephadex G (75-100) filtration and 250 g-5 min BP protocol improved sperm functions and were used in Experiment-III, where SEP G (75-100), SIE G (75-100), and 250 g-5 min BP processed ejaculates (n = 48) were cryopreserved and compared at post-thaw stage. The mean recovery rate differed in order: SEP > SIE > BP. SIE filtration significantly improved progressive motility, livability, membrane integrity, bovine cervical mucus penetration and live non-apoptotic sperm. Compared with control, all three techniques equally reduced post-dilution and post-thaw lipid peroxidation (LPO) rate. SEP post-thaw filtrates observed lower cryocapacitation-like changes, LPO (C11-BODIPY581/591), and higher active mitochondria than other treatments. SIE and SEP equally improved post-thaw acrosome-intact sperm over BP. Filtration techniques, preferably, Sephadex ion-exchange filtration can most efficiently process low-quality buffalo bull ejaculates for cryopreservation and improve freezability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Tiwari
- LPM Division, Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Rashika Srivastava
- LPM Division, Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Nitish Arun Kulkarni
- LPM Division, Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Kathan Raval
- LPM Division, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Prakash Patidar
- LPM Division, Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Abhijeet Fernandes
- LPM Division, Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Mukesh Bhakat
- LPM Division, Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tushar Kumar Mohanty
- LPM Division, Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
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Marqui FN, Martins A, da Cruz TE, Berton TIU, de Paula Freitas-Dell'Aqua C, Dell'Aqua JA, Oba E. Iodixanol supplementation in freezing extender improves the antioxidant capacity of semen. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:1551-1558. [PMID: 37679893 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of supplementing bovine semen freezing extender with different concentrations of iodixanol on post-thaw sperm characteristics. Six ejaculates of three Nellore bulls were pooled and diluted in commercial extender (BotuBov®) and then divided into 4 groups: control group (without adding iodixanol); groups G1.5, G3, or G6 according to the concentration of iodixanol solution (RedCushion®). After dilution, the samples were cooled and frozen. Post-thaw semen evaluation included sperm motility by CASA immediately after thawing and after 60 min of incubation at 37°C, flow cytometry analysis for integrity of plasma and acrosomal membranes, membrane destabilization and translocation of phosphatidylserine, mitochondrial membrane potential, and formation of intracellular anion superoxide (O 2 - ), hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ), and membrane lipid peroxidation. The group G6 presented significantly higher (p < .05) total and progressive motility, percentage of plasma and acrosomal membrane integrity, and H2 O2 than control and group G1.5. Furthermore, group G6 showed lower (p < .05) lipid peroxidation than control. In addition, regardless of the concentration used, the percentage of spermatozoa without phosphatidylserine translocation was higher (p < .05) in all iodixanol supplemented groups. In conclusion, iodixanol supplementation preserved the motility and integrity of sperm membranes during cryopreservation and protected against lipid peroxidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda N Marqui
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alicio Martins
- School of Veterinary Medicine, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tairini Erica da Cruz
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - José A Dell'Aqua
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eunice Oba
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Salman A, Fernández-Alegre E, Francisco-Vázquez R, Domínguez JC, Álvarez-Rodríguez M, Caamaño JN, Martínez-Pastor F, Gómez-Martín R, Fernández-Fernández A, Areán-Dablanca H. Pre-freezing selection of Holstein bull semen with the BoviPure colloid as double- or single-layer centrifugation improves the post-thawing quality. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 258:107344. [PMID: 37837771 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107344] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) is critical for breeding in the dairy industry. High-merit bulls can present low freezability, hampering genetic dissemination. Thawed semen can be improved using density gradient centrifugation (DGC) with colloids, but little information deals with the pre-freezing application. Thus, the BoviPure colloid (optimized for bull spermatozoa) was tested for pre-freezing application as the usual double-layer (DLC) versus single-layer (SLC, quick and economical). Semen from twelve Holstein-Friesian bulls was extended with OPTIXcell extender, frozen (Control), or processed by SLC or DLC and frozen. Sperm were assessed pre-freezing for motility and viability and post-thawing (directly and after 4 h 38 °C) for apoptosis, capacitation status, acrosomal damage, mitochondrial activity, cytoplasmic and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), and chromatin status (SCSA for DNA fragmentation and chromatin compaction and monobromobimane, mBBr, for disulfide bridges evaluation). The DGC improved parameters post-thawing (e.g., 57.5%±10.1 motility vs. control 53.3% ± 11.2) at the cost of sperm loss (sperm recovery of DGC 14.4% ± 2.5 and SLC 17.4% ± 2.5). DNA fragmentation (%DFI) decreased (0.21% ± 0.53 vs. control 1.30% ± 0.10), and SLC reduced chromatin compaction. A clustering procedure separated lesser (LF) and greater freezability (GF) bulls. LF samples were especially benefited by DGC, with SLC providing better post-thawing results for this group. In conclusion, pre-freezing DGC improved sperm parameters post-thawing, potentially improving the cryopreservation of low-freezability semen from high-merit bulls. SLC, quicker and economical, would be preferable since it showed similar or higher performance than DLC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Juan C Domínguez
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, Universidad de León, Spain
| | | | - J Néstor Caamaño
- Department of Animal Selection and Reproduction, Regional Service for Agrifood Research and Development (SERIDA), Gijon, Principado de Asturias, Spain
| | - Felipe Martínez-Pastor
- INDEGSAL, Universidad de León, León, Spain; Department of Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), Universidad de León, León, Spain.
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Ďuračka M, Benko F, Chňapek M, Tvrdá E. Strategies for Bacterial Eradication from Human and Animal Semen Samples: Current Options and Future Alternatives. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:6978. [PMID: 37571761 PMCID: PMC10422635 DOI: 10.3390/s23156978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
The primary role of semen processing and preservation is to maintain a high proportion of structurally and functionally competent and mature spermatozoa, that may be used for the purposes of artificial reproduction when needed, whilst minimizing any potential causes of sperm deterioration during ex vivo semen handling. Out of a multitude of variables determining the success of sperm preservation, bacterial contamination has been acknowledged with an increased interest because of its often unpredictable and complex effects on semen quality. Whilst antibiotics are usually the most straight-forward option to prevent the bacterial contamination of semen, antimicrobial resistance has become a serious threat requiring widespread attention. As such, besides discussing the consequences of bacteriospermia on the sperm vitality and the risks of antibiotic overuse in andrology, this paper summarizes the currently available evidence on alternative strategies to prevent bacterial contamination of semen prior to, during, and following sperm processing, selection, and preservation. Alternative antibacterial supplements are reviewed, and emphasis is given to modern methods of sperm selection that may be combined by the physical removal of bacteria prior to sperm preservation or by use in assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Ďuračka
- AgroBioTech Research Centre, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Filip Benko
- Institute of Applied Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Milan Chňapek
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Eva Tvrdá
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
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Neculai-Valeanu AS, Ariton AM. Game-Changing Approaches in Sperm Sex-Sorting: Microfluidics and Nanotechnology. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041182. [PMID: 33924241 PMCID: PMC8074747 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sexing of sperm cells, including the capacity to preselect the sex of offspring prior to reproduction, has been a major target of reproductive biotechnology for a very long time. The advances in molecular biology, biophysics, and computer science over the past few decades, as well as the groundbreaking new methods introduced by scientists, have contributed to some major breakthroughs in a variety of branches of medicine. In particular, assisted reproduction is one of the areas in which emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and microfluidics may enhance the fertility potential of samples of sex-sorted semen, thus improving the reproductive management of farm animals and conservation programs. In human medicine, embryo sex-selection using in vitro fertilization (IVF) and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is accepted only for medical reasons. Using sex-sorting before IVF would enable specialists to prevent sex-linked genetic diseases and prevent the discharge of embryos which are not suitable for transfer due to their sex. Abstract The utilization of sex-sorted sperm for artificial insemination and in-vitro fertilization is considered a valuable tool for improving production efficiency and optimizing reproductive management in farm animals, subsequently ensuring sufficient food resource for the growing human population. Despite the fact that sperm sex-sorting is one of the most intense studied technologies and notable progress have been made in the past three decades to optimize it, the conception rates when using sex-sorted semen are still under expectations. Assisted reproduction programs may benefit from the use of emergent nano and microfluidic-based technologies. This article addresses the currently used methods for sperm sex-sorting, as well as the emerging ones, based on nanotechnology and microfluidics emphasizing on their practical and economic applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andra-Sabina Neculai-Valeanu
- Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding Dancu, 707252 Iasi, Romania;
- Department of Fundamental Sciences in Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, University of Applied Life Sciences and Environment “Ion Ionescu de la Brad”, 700490 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Adina Mirela Ariton
- Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding Dancu, 707252 Iasi, Romania;
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Szlendak J, Adler C, Scherzer J, Niwinska A, Kautz E, Faundez R. Does single-layer centrifugation with Bovicoll improve sperm quality of frozen-thawed semen in Fleckvieh bulls? Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:691-700. [PMID: 32133677 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13666] [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: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of sperm selection by single-layer centrifugation (SLC) performed before freezing on sperm quality after thawing of Fleckvieh bull semen. Ejaculates from 22 bulls were collected by artificial vagina and divided into two aliquots. One aliquot (control sample) was diluted with Steridyl® and frozen over nitrogen vapour in a Digitcool freezer (IMV Technologies). Sperm from the second aliquot (SLC sample) was selected using the SLC technique with Bovicoll colloid and then frozen over nitrogen vapour in a Digitcool freezer. After thawing, both samples (control and SLC) were evaluated by computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA; SCA 6.4 System; Microptic S.L) for sperm motility parameters. Integrity of the plasma membrane (viability), high mitochondrial membrane potential (HMMP) and acrosome integrity were assessed using a Guava® easyCyte flow cytometer (IMV Technologies). Morphological examination of spermatozoa was performed by Differential Interference Contrast microscopy (Leica DMi8). Morphological examination of live, immobilized spermatozoa was analysed under high magnification (≥6,600×). After thawing, the mean sperm viability of the control sample was 51.57%, compared to 40.37% for the SLC sample (p < .01). HMMP was higher (p < .01) in the control sample (40.37% versus 28.96%), and the mean of live spermatozoa with damaged acrosome was significantly higher (p < .03) in the SLC sample (1.63% versus 1.95%). The mean percentage of motile spermatozoa was 80.17% in the control sample, compared to 75.14% in the SLC sample (p < .0195), and rapid subpopulation reduced from 20.08% to 8.99% (p < .0001) after SLC. Percentage of hyperactivated sperm decreased from 12.23% to 4.28% (p < .0001) after SLC. Given the overall results, the sperm quality of thawed Fleckvieh bull semen was not improved when sperm were selected by SLC before freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szlendak
- Department of Large Animal Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences WULS - SGGW, Warsaw, Poland.,Bayern-Genetik GmbH, Kumhausen, Germany
| | | | | | - Anna Niwinska
- Department of Large Animal Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences WULS - SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Kautz
- Department of Large Animal Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences WULS - SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ricardo Faundez
- Department of Large Animal Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences WULS - SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
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Wrenzycki C. Gene expression analysis and in vitro production procedures for bovine preimplantation embryos: Past highlights, present concepts and future prospects. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53 Suppl 2:14-19. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Wrenzycki
- Chair for Molecular Reproductive Medicine; Clinic for Veterinary Obstetrics; Gynecology and Andrology of Large and Small Animals; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Giessen Germany
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Malo C, Crichton EG, Morrell JM, Pukazhenthi BS, Johannisson A, Splan R, Skidmore JA. Colloid centrifugation of fresh semen improves post-thaw quality of cryopreserved dromedary camel spermatozoa. Anim Reprod Sci 2018. [PMID: 29525206 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Colloids have been successfully used in a number of species to improve sperm populations for IVF and for cryopreservation The usefulness of Single Layer Centrifugation (SLC) for freezing dromedary camel spermatozoa in two different extenders was evaluated by examining the motility, viability, acrosome status, DNA integrity, and ability of cryopreserved sperm to penetrate oocytes in vitro in a heterologus IVF system. Two ejaculates from each of five males were divided into four aliquots: two were processed by SLC (selected) while two were centrifuged without colloid (control). Pellets were cryopreserved in Green Buffer or INRA-96® containing 3% glycerol and evaluated at 0 and 1 h post thawed. The SLC improved post-thaw total and progressive motility at 0 (both P < 0.0001) and 1 (P < 0.001; P < 0.01, respectively) h, and STR (both P < 0.05) and BCF (both P < 0.001) at 0 h. Sperm viability and acrosome integrity (both P < 0.001) were improved at both time points. Sperm frozen in Green Buffer had greater total and progressive motilities at 0 (both P < 0.001) and 1 (both P < 0.001) h than INRA-96® samples. Spermatozoa in Green Buffer also had a greater VAP, VCL and VSL at 0 h and improved viability and acrosome integrity at 0 h (P < 0.05; P = 0.001, respectively) and 1 h (P < 0.05; P < 0.001, respectively). Viability of SLC spermatozoa was improved in Green Buffer at 1 h (P < 0.05). Oocyte penetration (P < 0.05) and pronuclear formation (P < 0.01) were greater with SLC-selected spermatozoa than non-selected spermatozoa, regardless of extender. No difference was observed between treatments or extenders in the mean number of spermatozoa per oocyte penetrated. The SLC spermatozoa had less (P < 0.01) DNA fragmentation compared to controls. The DNA fragmentation was moderately and negatively correlated with penetration (r = -0.4162; P = 0.02) and pronuclear formation (r = -0.3390; P < 0.01). In conclusion, colloid centrifugation of spermatozoa and cryopreservation in Green Buffer improves post thaw motility variables and IVF performance of dromedary camel spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Malo
- Camel Reproduction Center, P.O. Box 79914, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
| | | | - Jane M Morrell
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7054, SE-75007 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Budhan S Pukazhenthi
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Anders Johannisson
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7054, SE-75007 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Rebecca Splan
- Department of Animal Science, Sul Ross State University, Alpine, TX 79832, USA
| | - Julian A Skidmore
- Camel Reproduction Center, P.O. Box 79914, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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11
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Gloria A, Carluccio A, Wegher L, Robbe D, Valorz C, Contri A. Pulse wave Doppler ultrasound of testicular arteries and their relationship with semen characteristics in healthy bulls. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2018; 9:14. [PMID: 29441202 PMCID: PMC5800041 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-017-0229-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Semen evaluation is used to estimate the testicular function. In bulls, the spermatozoa present in the ejaculate are the result of a process that begun more than 2 mo earlier, bequeathing a delayed depiction of the actual function of the testis. Since testis vascularization might be critical for the gonad function, selected pulse wave Doppler ultrasound parameters were assessed in this study, for instance the peak systolic velocity, the end diastolic velocity and the resistive index of the testicular artery along the spermatic cord, the marginal portion of the testicular artery and the intratesticular branches of the testicular artery both in healthy adult and young bulls. Correlations between these parameters and characteristics of semen that was collected numerous times, before and after the Doppler ultrasound examination. RESULTS The peak systolic velocity and the end diastolic velocity measured in the testicular artery along the spermatic cord (supratesticular artery - SA) were variable among the bulls and within individual bulls, likely due to the convoluted course of the vessel. The resistive index was found highly repeatable in the same bull. A reduction in the resistive index was found between the supratesticular artery and the marginal portion of the testicular artery (P < 0.01), and between the marginal portion of the testicular artery and the intratesticular branches of the testicular artery (P < 0.05). No differences were recorded for the pulse wave Doppler ultrasound parameters in young bulls compared with adults. A significant correlation was found between the resistive index of the marginal portion of the testicular artery and total sperm in the ejaculate (r = 0.516, P < 0.05), the immature sperm (r = 0.462, P < 0.05), the teratoid sperm (r = 0.375, P < 0.05), and the "Dag defect" sperm (r = 0.389, P < 0.05). Similarly, the resistive index of the intratesticular branches of the testicular artery were found correlated with the total sperm number in the ejaculate (r = 0.568, P < 0.05), the immature sperm (r = 0.523, P < 0.05), the teratoid sperm (r = 0.418, P < 0.05), and the "Dag defect" sperm (r = 0.341, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The data presented in this study suggest that the resistive index, measured at the marginal portion of the testicular artery, could be an easy-to-perform parameter to evaluate the spermatogenesis quality in young bulls and normal adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Gloria
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Augusto Carluccio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Laura Wegher
- Provincial Breeders Federation of Trento, Via delle Bettine 40, 38121 Trento, Italy
| | - Domenico Robbe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Claudio Valorz
- Provincial Breeders Federation of Trento, Via delle Bettine 40, 38121 Trento, Italy
| | - Alberto Contri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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12
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Gloria A, Wegher L, Carluccio A, Valorz C, Robbe D, Contri A. Factors affecting staining to discriminate between bull sperm with greater and lesser mitochondrial membrane potential. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 189:51-59. [PMID: 29279197 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Revised: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The sperm mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) is usually evaluated using the JC-1 dye. This study aimed to verify the effect of incubation temperature (25 °C or 38 °C), incubation time (10, 30, and 45 min), JC-1 stain concentration (0.2 μM, 2 μM, 8 μM, 12 μM), and the presence of glycerol (6.6% compared with 0%), on the capacity of the stain to discriminate between sperm with high mitochondrial membrane potential (hMMP) and low mitochondrial membrane potential (lMMP) in fresh and frozen bull sample by both flow cytometry and epifluorescence microscopy. The temperature (38 °C for 10 min) and the dye concentration (8 μM and 12 μM) resulted in a greater proportion of hMMP (P < .05). The incubation for 45 min at 38 °C resulted in a significant reduction of hMMP in samples stained with JC-1 dye at 8 μM and 12 μM (P < .01). A longer incubation time (45 min) and greater dye concentration (8 μM and 12 μM) resulted in an increased proportion of hMMP sperm in cryopreserved samples. Fresh sperm incubated with glycerol had a hMMP (P < .05). Data for the present study indicate that the optimal incubation temperature was 38 °C, with an incubation time differing between fresh (10-30 min) and cryopreserved sperm (at least 45 min). Furthermore, the JC-1 dye concentration used that could reliably detect the proportion of hMMP sperm was 2 μM in fresh samples, and at least 8 μM in cryopreserved sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Gloria
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy.
| | - Laura Wegher
- Provincial Breeders Federation of Trento, Via delle Bettine 40, 38121 Trento, Italy
| | - Augusto Carluccio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Claudio Valorz
- Provincial Breeders Federation of Trento, Via delle Bettine 40, 38121 Trento, Italy
| | - Domenico Robbe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Alberto Contri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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13
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Ferré LB, Chitwood JL, Fresno C, Ortega HH, Kjelland ME, Ross PJ. Effect of different mini-volume colloid centrifugation configurations on flow cytometrically sorted sperm recovery efficiency and quality using a computer-assisted semen analyzer. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 53:26-33. [PMID: 28891229 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Straws of sex-sorted sperm are usually packaged at a low concentration (e.g., ~2.1 × 106 sperm/ml) and cost significantly more than unsorted conventional semen from the same sire. In order to maximize the efficiency of using sex-sorted sperm under in vitro fertilization conditions, the selection of an appropriate sperm separation technique is essential. In this study, the effect of using different silane-coated silica colloid dilutions and layering configurations during centrifugation of sex-sorted sperm was examined over an extended period of incubation time. Sperm recovery and viability after centrifugation using the colloid separation technique were measured along with several sperm motility parameters using CASA. For this purpose, frozen and thawed sex-sorted sperm samples were centrifuged using mini-volume single-layer (40%, 60% and 80%) and mini-volume two-layer (45%/90%, 40%/80% and 30%/60%) separation configurations using PureSperm® . A single layer of 40% PureSperm® recovered significantly more sex-sorted sperm (78.07% ± 2.28%) followed by a single layer of 80% PureSperm® (68.43% ± 2.33%). The lowest sperm recovery was obtained using a two-layer PureSperm® dilution of 45%/90% (47.57% ± 2.33%). Single-layer centrifugation recovered more sorted sperm (68.67% ± 1.74%) than two layer (53.74% ± 1.74%) (p < .0001). A single layer of 80% PureSperm® exhibited the highest sorted sperm viability (72.01% ± 2.90%) after centrifugation (p < .05). The mini-volume single layer of 80% PureSperm® was determined to be an effective alternative to a two-layer centrifugation configuration for sex-sorted sperm selection. In addition, single-layer colloid dilution of 80% performed either as well as or significantly outperformed the other treatments, as well as the control, with regard to motility (MOT) for all time periods of analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L B Ferré
- Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, Rafaela, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - J L Chitwood
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - C Fresno
- Computational Genomics Division, National Institute of Genomic Medicine (INMEGEN), México, México
| | - H H Ortega
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Litoral/CONICET, Santa Fe, Esperanza, Argentina
| | - M E Kjelland
- Conservation, Genetics and Biotech, LLC, Vicksburg, MS, USA
| | - P J Ross
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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14
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Nongbua T, Johannisson A, Edman A, Morrell JM. Effects of single layer centrifugation (SLC) on bull spermatozoa prior to freezing on post-thaw semen characteristics. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:596-602. [PMID: 28326621 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Single layer centrifugation (SLC) has been shown to select the most robust spermatozoa from the ejaculate in several species. Here the effects of SLC prior to freezing on various parameters of frozen-thawed bovine sperm quality are reported. Semen from 8 bulls was layered on top of a species-specific colloid, Bovicoll. After centrifugation for 20 min at 300 g, the resulting sperm pellet was resuspended in OPTIXcell® (IMV Technologies, l'Aigle, France); the SLC-selected sperm samples and uncentrifuged controls were frozen. On thawing, all sperm samples were analysed for membrane integrity, production of reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and chromatin integrity. The SLC-treated samples had a higher percentage of live, superoxide-positive spermatozoa than uncentrifuged samples (27.9 ± 5.1% versus 21.7 ± 6.7%; p = .03). They had a higher proportion of spermatozoa with high mitochondrial membrane potential than uncentrifuged samples (55.9 ± 8.2% versus 40.5 ± 15.1%; p = .03) and also a lower proportion of spermatozoa with low mitochondrial membrane potential than non-treated samples (42.0 ± 8.5% versus 55.9 ± 14.4%; p = .04). No significant effects of treatment were found for membrane integrity or chromatin integrity. The effect of bull was significant on the proportions of dead, superoxide-positive spermatozoa and live, hydrogen peroxide-negative spermatozoa, as well as on membrane integrity, but it was not significant for mitochondrial membrane potential or chromatin integrity. These results suggest that SLC selects the most metabolically active bull spermatozoa from the rest of the population in normal ejaculates; the pattern of reactive oxygen species production may be different in SLC-selected spermatozoa compared to unselected samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Nongbua
- Division of Reproduction, Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden.,Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham, Thailand
| | - A Johannisson
- Division of Reproduction, Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - A Edman
- VikingGenetics, Skara, Sweden
| | - J M Morrell
- Division of Reproduction, Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
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15
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Santiago-Moreno J, Esteso M, Castaño C, Toledano-Díaz A, Delgadillo J, López-Sebastián A. Seminal plasma removal by density-gradient centrifugation is superior for goat sperm preservation compared with classical sperm washing. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 181:141-150. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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