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Biasetti P, Mercugliano E, Schrade L, Spiriti MM, Göritz F, Holtze S, Seet S, Galli C, Stejskal J, Colleoni S, Čižmár D, Simone R, Hildebrandt TB, de Mori B. Ethical assessment of genome resource banking (GRB) in wildlife conservation. Cryobiology 2024; 117:104956. [PMID: 39181526 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2024.104956] [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: 06/23/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Genome Resources Banks (GRBs) represent vital repositories for the systematic collection, storage, and management of genetic material across various taxa, with a primary objective of safeguarding genetic diversity for research and practical applications. Alongside the development of assisted reproductive techniques (ART), GRBs have evolved into indispensable tools in conservation, offering opportunities for species preservation, mitigating inbreeding risks, and facilitating genetic management across fragmented populations. By preserving genetic information in a suspended state, GRBs serve as backups against population vulnerabilities, potentially aiding in the restoration of endangered species and extending their genetic lifespan. While evidence demonstrates the efficacy of GRBs, ethical considerations surrounding biobanking procedures for wildlife conservation remain largely unexplored. In this article, we will discuss possible ethical issues related to GRBs and the need to ethically monitor biobanking procedures in wildlife conservation. We will then propose a methodological tool, ETHAS, already in use for the ethical self-assessment of assisted reproduction techniques, to assess also biobanking procedures. ETHAS can make it possible to monitor a GRB from its design phase to its actual operation, helping to build biobanking procedures that meet high ethical standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany; Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy.
| | - Elena Mercugliano
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy; Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Lisa Schrade
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Michela Spiriti
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Frank Göritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Steven Seet
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Čižmár
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Raffaella Simone
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Barbara de Mori
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy; Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Padua University, Padua, Italy.
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Hildebrandt TB, Holtze S, Colleoni S, Hermes R, Stejskal J, Lekolool I, Ndeereh D, Omondi P, Kariuki L, Mijele D, Mutisya S, Ngulu S, Diecke S, Hayashi K, Lazzari G, de Mori B, Biasetti P, Quaggio A, Galli C, Goeritz F. In vitro fertilization program in white rhinoceros. Reproduction 2023; 166:383-399. [PMID: 37877686 PMCID: PMC10620463 DOI: 10.1530/rep-23-0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
In brief To save endangered rhinoceros species, assisted reproductive technologies are warranted. We here report in vitro blastocyst generation of the Near-Threatened Southern white rhinoceros and, for the first time, also of the technically Extinct Northern white rhinoceros. Abstract The Anthropocene is marked by a dramatic biodiversity decline, particularly affecting the family Rhinocerotidae. Three of five extant species are listed as Critically Endangered (Sumatran, Javan, black rhinoceros), one as Vulnerable (Indian rhinoceros), and only one white rhino (WR) subspecies, the Southern white rhinoceros (SWR), after more than a century of successful protection is currently classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, while numbers again are declining. Conversely, in 2008, the SWR's northern counterpart and second WR subspecies, the Northern white rhinoceros (NWR), was declared extinct in the wild. Safeguarding these vanishing keystone species urgently requires new reproductive strategies. We here assess one such strategy, the novel in vitro fertilization program in SWR and - for the first-time NWR - regarding health effects, donor-related, and procedural factors. Over the past 8 years, we performed 65 procedures in 22 white rhinoceros females (20 SWR and 2 NWR) comprising hormonal ovarian stimulation, ovum pick-up (OPU), in vitro oocyte maturation, fertilization, embryo culture, and blastocyst cryopreservation, at an efficiency of 1.0 ± 1.3 blastocysts per OPU, generating 22 NWR, 19 SWR and 10 SWR/NWR hybrid blastocysts for the future generation of live offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Bernd Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
- Freie Universitat Berlin, Veterinary Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- AVANTEA, Laboratorio di Tecnologie della Riproduzione, Lombardy, Cremona, Italy
| | - Robert Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Communication and International Projects, Štefánikova, Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Isaac Lekolool
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary and Capture Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David Ndeereh
- Wildlife Training and Research Institute, Nakuru County, Naivasha, Kenya
| | - Patrick Omondi
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary and Capture Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linus Kariuki
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary and Capture Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Domnic Mijele
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary and Capture Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samuel Mutisya
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Conservation Laikipia, Nanyuki, Kenya
| | - Stephen Ngulu
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Conservation Laikipia, Nanyuki, Kenya
| | - Sebastian Diecke
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Kyushu University, Maidashi, Higashiku, Fukuoka, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- AVANTEA, Laboratorio di Tecnologie della Riproduzione, Lombardy, Cremona, Italy
| | - Barbara de Mori
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Università degli Studi di Padova, Italy
- Universita degli Studi di Padova, Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, Veneto, Padova, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
- Universita degli Studi di Padova, Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, Veneto, Padova, Italy
| | - Alessandra Quaggio
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cesare Galli
- AVANTEA, Laboratorio di Tecnologie della Riproduzione, Lombardy, Cremona, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, Riproduzione Cremona, Lombardy, Cremona, Italy
| | - Frank Goeritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
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Yoelinda VT, Arifiantini RI, Solihin DD, Agil M, Setiadi DR, Maulana T, Purwantara B, Hastuti YT, Manansang J, Sajuthi D. Correlation between Post-Thaw Spermatozoa Quality of the Endangered Javan Banteng with OPN Gene Expression. Vet Med Int 2023; 2023:9982422. [PMID: 37448586 PMCID: PMC10338126 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9982422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of ex situ conservation facilities or captivity through captive breeding programs is essential in the conservation of the endangered Javan banteng. The development of semen cryopreservation may assist on one side of the conservation plan. However, the male Javan banteng reproductive capability must be considered as it influences the targeted outputs. Studying the potential biomarker for fertility such as osteopontin gene expression is also expected to help predict male fertility. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the quality of spermatozoa after thawing to help predict the male reproductive capability of Javan banteng. Furthermore, this study investigated the potential role of osteopontin gene expression in male Javan banteng fertility. A positive reinforcement approach was used to accustom the male and female animals as we focused on establishing a collection procedure using neither sedation nor anaesthesia. Semen samples were collected at Taman Safari Indonesia, Bogor, in accordance with the female banteng receptivity. Semen samples were then evaluated and then cryopreserved under field conditions. Our study showed the different predicted reproductive capability of the Javan banteng based on the post-thaw spermatozoa quality, which showed significant differences. The OPN gene showed positive correlations with the progressive motility (r = 0.711, p = 0.048), viability (r = 0.822, p = 0.012), and acrosomal integrity (r = 0.665, p = 0.072) of Javan banteng spermatozoa after thawing. Our study demonstrated the predicted Javan banteng reproductive capability based on various post-thaw spermatozoa variables. This finding is also the first report on the OPN gene potential to be developed as the assessment tool of post-thaw spermatozoa quality of the male Javan banteng. The findings in our study may help give recommendations for future breeding programs, especially in the ex situ conservation sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincentia Trisna Yoelinda
- Study Program of Reproductive Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
| | - Raden Iis Arifiantini
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
| | | | - Muhammad Agil
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
| | - Dedi Rahmat Setiadi
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
| | - Tulus Maulana
- Research Centre of Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong, Bogor, West Java 16911, Indonesia
| | - Bambang Purwantara
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
| | - Yohana Tri Hastuti
- Taman Safari Indonesia Bogor, Cisarua, Bogor, West Java 16750, Indonesia
| | - Jansen Manansang
- Taman Safari Indonesia Bogor, Cisarua, Bogor, West Java 16750, Indonesia
| | - Dondin Sajuthi
- Division of Internal Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, West Java 16680, Indonesia
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Meuffels-Barkas J, Wilsher S, Allen WRT, Ververs C, Lueders I. Comparative reproduction of the female horse, elephant and rhinoceros: implications for advancing Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2023; 4:RAF-23-0020. [PMID: 37439577 PMCID: PMC10448597 DOI: 10.1530/raf-23-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent loss of rhinoceros subspecies has renewed interest in using more advanced assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in rhinoceroses and elephants. Currently, only semen collection, semen preservation and artificial insemination (AI) have been used repeatedly with success in these species. Although ovum pick-up (OPU) and intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) have been reported in rhinoceroses, the techniques are not yet optimised. In contrast, multiple ART applications are routinely used in the horse. Since elephant and rhinoceroses share some reproductive features with equids, we postulate that procedures such as OPU, ICSI, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and embryo transfer (ET), which are well established in the horse, may represent a basis to develop protocols for endangered pachyderms. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on reproductive physiology relevant to ART. We discuss the current state of ART in all three families and the requirements for the successful implementation of OPU, ICSI, IVF and ET in these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Meuffels-Barkas
- Cryovault, Rhino Force SA NPC, Tokai, South Africa
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Sandra Wilsher
- The Paul Mellon Laboratory, Brunswick, Newmarket, Suffolk, UK
| | - W R Twink Allen
- The Paul Mellon Laboratory, Brunswick, Newmarket, Suffolk, UK
| | | | - Imke Lueders
- Cryovault, Rhino Force SA NPC, Tokai, South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa
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Biasetti P, Hildebrandt TB, Göritz F, Hermes R, Holtze S, Stejskal J, Galli C, Pollastri I, Muzzo A, Lekolool I, Ndereeh D, Omondi P, Kariuki L, Mijele D, Mutisya S, Ngulu S, de Mori B. Application of decision tools to ethical analysis in biodiversity conservation. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2023; 37:e14029. [PMID: 36317722 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Achieving ethically responsible decisions is crucial for the success of biodiversity conservation projects. We adapted the ethical matrix, decision tree, and Bateson's cube to assist in the ethical analysis of complex conservation scenarios by structuring these tools so that they can implement the different value dimensions (environmental, social, and animal welfare) involved in conservation ethics. We then applied them to a case study relative to the decision-making process regarding whether or not to continue collecting biomaterial on the oldest of the two remaining northern white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum cottoni), a functionally extinct subspecies of the white rhinoceros. We used the ethical matrix to gather ethical pros and cons and as a starting point for a participatory approach to ethical decision-making. We used decision trees to compare the different options at stake on the basis of a set of ethical desiderata. We used Bateson's cube to establish a threshold of ethical acceptability and model the results of a simple survey. The application of these tools proved to be pivotal in structuring the decision-making process and in helping reach a shared, reasoned, and transparent decision on the best option from an ethical point of view among those available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Thomas B Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Pollastri
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Alessia Muzzo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | | | - David Ndereeh
- Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Karagita, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Barbara de Mori
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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6
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Hitit M, Memili E. Sperm Signatures of Fertility and Freezability. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 247:107147. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Cryopreservation of Giraffe Epidydimal Spermatozoa Using Different Extenders and Cryoprotectants. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12070857. [PMID: 35405846 PMCID: PMC8997136 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Giraffe numbers have been plummeting over the last 30 years by 30–40%. As such, efforts to manage in situ and ex situ populations are increasing. Assisted reproduction techniques such as sperm cryopreservation can help preserve the genetic diversity of giraffe subspecies or enhance genetic exchange between populations. However, to date, the post-thaw motility of recovered sperm has been variable. In this study, spermatozoa were collected from the epididymides of seven giraffes to investigate whether an alternative cryoprotectant could improve sperm motility following conventional cryopreservation. For this, we compared the motility and viability of sperm prior to and after freezing in three different extenders: a commercial equine extender (BotuCrio®; Nidacon, Moedal, Schweden), a commercial bovine extender (Steridyl, Minitube, Tiefenbach, Germany), and an in-house “made” bovine egg yolk extender (TEY). Each was further supplemented with either glycerol or a mix of glycerol and methylformamide cryoprotectants. The results show that spermatozoa frozen with a mix of two cryoprotectants had significantly higher post-thaw motility compared to glycerol alone. Specifically, spermatozoa frozen in TEY and a mix of cryoprotectants achieved post-thaw sperm motility of 57 ± 3%. These results might serve as a blueprint for an improved protocol for giraffe sperm cryopreservation. Abstract Giraffe numbers have plummeted over the last 30 years by 30–40%. Thus, their conservation status has been raised from least concern to vulnerable. Efforts to manage in situ and ex situ populations are increasing. Assisted reproduction techniques (ART) such as sperm cryopreservation could help preserve the genetic diversity of giraffe subspecies and, when used for artificial inseminations, enhance genetic exchange between isolated populations. However, to date, the post-thaw motility of recovered sperm has been low and inconsistent. In this study, epididymal sperm collected from the testes of giraffes (n = 7) was frozen in three different extenders, namely, BotuCrio, Steridyl, and test egg yolk (TEY), each supplemented with one of two different cryoprotectants (5% glycerol or a mix of 1% glycerol and 4% methylformamide) and frozen over liquid nitrogen vapor. Across all three extenders, sperm showed significantly better post-thaw results when frozen with a mix of glycerol and methylformamide compared with glycerol alone. Sperm frozen with TEY and a mix of glycerol and methylformamide achieved superior post-thaw total and progressive sperm motility of 57 ± 3% and 45 ± 3%, respectively. These results show the benefit of using alternative cryoprotectants for freezing giraffe spermatozoa and could aid in the application of ARTs for giraffe subspecies or the closely related endangered Okapi.
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8
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Zywitza V, Rusha E, Shaposhnikov D, Ruiz-Orera J, Telugu N, Rishko V, Hayashi M, Michel G, Wittler L, Stejskal J, Holtze S, Göritz F, Hermes R, Wang J, Izsvák Z, Colleoni S, Lazzari G, Galli C, Hildebrandt TB, Hayashi K, Diecke S, Drukker M. Naïve-like pluripotency to pave the way for saving the northern white rhinoceros from extinction. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3100. [PMID: 35260583 PMCID: PMC8904600 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07059-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The northern white rhinoceros (NWR) is probably the earth's most endangered mammal. To rescue the functionally extinct species, we aim to employ induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to generate gametes and subsequently embryos in vitro. To elucidate the regulation of pluripotency and differentiation of NWR PSCs, we generated iPSCs from a deceased NWR female using episomal reprogramming, and observed surprising similarities to human PSCs. NWR iPSCs exhibit a broad differentiation potency into the three germ layers and trophoblast, and acquire a naïve-like state of pluripotency, which is pivotal to differentiate PSCs into primordial germ cells (PGCs). Naïve culturing conditions induced a similar expression profile of pluripotency related genes in NWR iPSCs and human ESCs. Furthermore, naïve-like NWR iPSCs displayed increased expression of naïve and PGC marker genes, and a higher integration propensity into developing mouse embryos. As the conversion process was aided by ectopic BCL2 expression, and we observed integration of reprogramming factors, the NWR iPSCs presented here are unsuitable for gamete production. However, the gained insights into the developmental potential of both primed and naïve-like NWR iPSCs are fundamental for in future PGC-specification in order to rescue the species from extinction using cryopreserved somatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Zywitza
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ejona Rusha
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Facility, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Dmitry Shaposhnikov
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Facility, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jorge Ruiz-Orera
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Narasimha Telugu
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Valentyna Rishko
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Facility, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Masafumi Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Geert Michel
- FEMTransgenic Technologies, Charité, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lars Wittler
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Štefánikova 1029, 544 01, Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Göritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jichang Wang
- Mobile DNA, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- Mobile DNA, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
| | - Cesare Galli
- Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
| | - Thomas B Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315, Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Sebastian Diecke
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Micha Drukker
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Facility, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany.
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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9
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Rickard JP, Pool K, de Graaf SP, Portas T, Rourke N, Wiesner M, Hildebrandt TB, Göritz F, Hermes R. Increasing the Yield and Cryosurvival of Spermatozoa from Rhinoceros Ejaculates Using the Enzyme Papain. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020154. [PMID: 35205021 PMCID: PMC8869768 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Efficient collection and cryosurvival of semen from threatened wildlife species is key for the success of artificial reproductive technologies (ARTs). The viscous nature of ejaculates often collected from species such as rhinoceros, elephant, hippopotamus and primate, render the majority of spermatozoa collected useless and is therefore wasted. The enzyme papain has been used to reduce the viscosity of camelid semen but has yet to be tested in wildlife species. Therefore, the current study investigated the ability of papain to improve the yield and quality of spermatozoa collected from viscous fractions of the rhinoceros ejaculate during cryopreservation. Papain increased the quantity of useable spermatozoa collected from ejaculates, as well as the motility prior to freezing. It also improved the post-thaw motility, velocity, linearity and straightness of samples compared to spermatozoa frozen from the sperm-rich fraction of the ejaculate. There was no detrimental effect on membrane characteristics or DNA integrity. These results show that treating rhinoceros ejaculates with papain is able to salvage valuable spermatozoa and improve survival post-thaw, ultimately increasing the success of ARTs and creation of biobanks for the maintenance and survival of threatened species. Abstract The preservation of rhinoceros semen is vital for captive breeding programs. While successful collection and cryopreservation of rhinoceros semen has been reported, the volume and quality of semen produced is often low due to the high viscosity associated with ejaculates collected via electroejaculation. Reducing semen viscosity would enable access to previously unusable spermatozoa from viscous fractions and could improve quality post-thaw. The enzyme papain successfully reduced the viscosity of camelid semen but has yet to be tested in wildlife species. This study assessed the influence of papain on the in vitro quality of rhinoceros spermatozoa during cryopreservation using advanced semen assessment. In experiment 1, the motility of spermatozoa from the viscous fraction of an ejaculate, either untreated or treated with papain and its inhibitor E-64 prior to cryopreservation, was assessed post-thaw. In experiment 2, spermatozoa from papain-treated viscous fractions were compared to spermatozoa frozen from untreated sperm-rich fractions pre-freeze, as well as after 0, 1.5 and 3 h of incubation post-thaw (37 °C). Papain significantly increased the quantity of spermatozoa collected from ejaculates, as well as the motility prior to freezing. Papain also improved the post-thaw motility, velocity, linearity and straightness of samples compared to sperm-rich samples, with no detriment to sperm viability, lipid membrane disorder, production of ROS or DNA integrity (p < 0.05). Results show the benefit of supplementing rhinoceros spermatozoa with papain prior to cryopreservation on sperm cryosurvival and demonstrates the potential of using papain to improve the success of cryopreservation protocols, not only for the rhinoceros, but also for other wildlife species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P. Rickard
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.P.); (S.P.d.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-93518564
| | - Kelsey Pool
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.P.); (S.P.d.G.)
| | - Simon P. de Graaf
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (K.P.); (S.P.d.G.)
| | - Timothy Portas
- Zoo and Wildlife Veterinary Consultancy, Maleny, QLD 4552, Australia;
| | | | | | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproductive Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315 Berlin, Germany; (T.B.H.); (F.G.); (R.H.)
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproductive Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315 Berlin, Germany; (T.B.H.); (F.G.); (R.H.)
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproductive Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315 Berlin, Germany; (T.B.H.); (F.G.); (R.H.)
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10
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The ART of bringing extinction to a freeze - History and future of species conservation, exemplified by rhinos. Theriogenology 2021; 169:76-88. [PMID: 33940218 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The ongoing mass extinction of animal species at an unprecedented rate is largely caused by human activities. Progressive habitat destruction and fragmentation is resulting in accelerated loss of biodiversity on a global scale. Over decades, captive breeding programs of non-domestic species were characterized by efforts to optimize species-specific husbandry, to increase studbook-based animal exchange, and to improve enclosure designs. To counter the ongoing dramatic loss of biodiversity, new approaches are warranted. Recently, new ideas, particularly the application of assisted reproduction technologies (ART), have been incorporated into classical zoo breeding programs. These technologies include semen and oocyte collection, artificial insemination, and in-vitro embryo generation. More futuristic ideas of advanced ART (aART) implement recent advances in biotechnology and stem-cell related approaches such as cloning, inner cell mass transfer (ICM), and the stem-cell-associated techniques (SCAT) for the generation of gametes and ultimately embryos of highly endangered species, such as the northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) of which only two female individuals are left. Both, ART and aART greatly depend on and benefit from the rapidly evolving cryopreservation techniques and biobanking not only of genetic, but also of viable cellular materials suitable for the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). The availability of cryopreserved materials bridges gaps in time and space, thereby optimizing the available genetic variability and enhancing the chance to restore viable populations.
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11
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de Mori B, Spiriti MM, Pollastri I, Normando S, Biasetti P, Florio D, Andreucci F, Colleoni S, Galli C, Göritz F, Hermes R, Holtze S, Lazzari G, Seet S, Zwilling J, Stejskal J, Mutisya S, Ndeereh D, Ngulu S, Vigne R, Hildebrandt TB. An Ethical Assessment Tool (ETHAS) to Evaluate the Application of Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Mammals' Conservation: The Case of the Northern White Rhinoceros ( Ceratotherium simum cottoni). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:312. [PMID: 33530613 PMCID: PMC7911958 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) can make a difference in biodiversity conservation. Their application, however, can create risks and raise ethical issues that need addressing. Unfortunately, there is a lack of attention to the topic in the scientific literature and, to our knowledge, there is no tool for the ethical assessment of ARTs in the context of conservation that has been described. This paper reports the first applications of the Ethical Assessment Tool (ETHAS) to trans-rectal ovum pick-up (OPU) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures used in a northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) conservation project. The ETHAS consists of two checklists, the Ethical Evaluation Sheet and the Ethical Risk Assessment, and is specifically customized for each ART procedure. It provides an integrated, multilevel and standardized self-assessment of the procedure under scrutiny, generating an ethical acceptability ranking (totally, partially, not acceptable) and a risk rank (low, medium, high), and, hence, allows for implementing measures to address or manage issues beforehand. The application of the ETHAS to the procedures performed on the northern white rhinoceros was effective in ensuring a high standard of procedures, contributing to the acceptability and improved communication among the project's partners. In turn, the tool itself was also refined through an iterative consultation process between experts and stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara de Mori
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Maria Michela Spiriti
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Ilaria Pollastri
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Simona Normando
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Daniela Florio
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Andreucci
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; (S.C.); (C.G.); (G.L.)
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; (S.C.); (C.G.); (G.L.)
- Avantea Foundation, 26100 Cremona, Italy
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; (S.C.); (C.G.); (G.L.)
- Avantea Foundation, 26100 Cremona, Italy
| | - Steven Seet
- Science Communication, Science Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (S.S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jan Zwilling
- Science Communication, Science Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (S.S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, 54401 Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic;
| | - Samuel Mutisya
- Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, Nanyuki 10400, Kenya; (S.M.); (S.N.); (R.V.)
| | | | - Stephen Ngulu
- Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, Nanyuki 10400, Kenya; (S.M.); (S.N.); (R.V.)
| | - Richard Vigne
- Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, Nanyuki 10400, Kenya; (S.M.); (S.N.); (R.V.)
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Free University of Berlin, D-14195 Berlin, Germany
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12
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Hildebrandt TB, Holtze S, Biasetti P, Colleoni S, de Mori B, Diecke S, Göritz F, Hayashi K, Hayashi M, Hermes R, Kariuki L, Lazzari G, Mijele D, Mutisya S, Ndeereh D, Ngulu S, Seet S, Zwilling J, Zywitza V, Stejskal J, Galli C. Conservation Research in Times of COVID-19 – The Rescue of the Northern White Rhino. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021. [DOI: 10.1163/25889567-bja10009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
COVID-19 has changed the world at unprecedented pace. The measures imposed by governments across the globe for containing the pandemic have severely affected all facets of economy and society, including scientific progress. Сonservation research has not been exempt from these negative effects, which we here summarize for the BioRescue project, aiming at saving the northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni), an important Central African keystone species, of which only two female individuals are left. The development of advanced assisted reproduction and stem-cell technologies to achieve this goal involves experts across five continents. Maintaining international collaborations under conditions of national shut-down and travel restrictions poses major challenges. The associated ethical implications and consequences are particularly troublesome when it comes to research directed at protecting biological diversity – all the more in the light of increasing evidence that biodiversity and intact ecological habitats might limit the spread of novel pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315 Berlin Germany
- Freie Universität Berlin D-14195, Berlin Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315 Berlin Germany
| | - Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315 Berlin Germany
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, Università degli Studi di Padova 35020 Padova Italy
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies 26100, Cremona Italy
- Fondazione Avantea 26100, Cremona Italy
| | - Barbara de Mori
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, Università degli Studi di Padova 35020 Padova Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Università degli Studi di Padova 35020 Padova Italy
| | - Sebastian Diecke
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13092 Berlin Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Straße 2, 10178 Berlin Germany
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315 Berlin Germany
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University Fukuoka, 812-0054 Japan
| | - Masafumi Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University Fukuoka, 812-0054 Japan
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315 Berlin Germany
| | | | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies 26100, Cremona Italy
- Fondazione Avantea 26100, Cremona Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Steven Seet
- Science Management, Public Relations, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315 Berlin Germany
| | - Jan Zwilling
- Science Management, Public Relations, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315 Berlin Germany
| | - Vera Zywitza
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC) Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13092 Berlin Germany
| | - Jan Stejskal
- Zoo Dvůr Králové Štefánikova 1029, 544 01, Dvůr Králové nad Labem Czech Republic
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies 26100, Cremona Italy
- Fondazione Avantea 26100, Cremona Italy
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Animal protein-free OptiXcell and shortened equilibration periods can replace egg yolk-based extender and slow cooling for rhinoceros semen cryopreservation. Cryobiology 2019; 89:21-25. [PMID: 31226254 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2019.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OptiXcell (OP) was tested as an animal protein-free alternative to an egg yolk-based extender for rhinoceros semen cryopreservation and shorter chilling/equilibration periods were evaluated. Semen was collected from three rhinoceros species: black (Diceros bicornis; n = 2), white (Ceratotherium simum; n = 2), and greater one-horned (GOH; Rhinoceros unicornis; n = 3). Controls were diluted with equine extender (EQ) or OP and equilibrated for 1 h. Treatments were diluted with extender and cooled for 15 min (fast: FEQ; FOP) or not cooled (immediate: IEQ; IOP), prior to cryopreservation. Motility decreased post-thaw (EQ: 50.7 ± 5.2%; OP: 52.9 ± 3.4%) from fresh (82.9 ± 2.9%), was higher in OP than IOP (38.6 ± 4.9%; P ≤ 0.05) and decreased over time (P ≤ 0.05). Post-thaw acrosomal integrity was lower in EQ, FEQ, and IEQ (56.9 ± 0.7; 56.6 ± 4.5; 54.9 ± 2.9%) than OP, FOP, IOP (71.8 ± 4.7; 71.9 ± 3.8; 69.9 ± 4.5%) and fresh (72.6 ± 1.4%; P ≤ 0.05). Progression and viability were lower in EQ (2.8 ± 0.2; 61.9 ± 7.4%) and OP (3.1 ± 0.2; 53.4 ± 6.9%) than fresh (3.7 ± 0.2; 87.2 ± 1.3%), decreased over time (P ≤ 0.05) but not different among treatments (P > 0.05). Morphology did not differ between fresh (75.0 ± 4.9% normal) and any treatment group (70.0-77.8%) or over time (P > 0.05). OptiXcell is comparable to egg yolk-based EQ when used for rhinoceros semen cryopreservation. Furthermore, chilling/equilibration can be reduced with little impact on sperm characteristics.
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14
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First cryopreservation of phyllostomid bat sperm. Theriogenology 2019; 131:28-31. [PMID: 30933687 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Bats, the second-largest mammalian order, are widely distributed and provide crucial ecosystem services. Their reproductive biology comprises noteworthy characteristics, such as long-term sperm storage, delayed implantation or even delayed fetal development. The understanding of these mechanisms remains limited. Research in reproductive biology may become crucial for the conservation of endangered bat species. Indeed, the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species currently lists 76 bat species as endangered or critically endangered, for which conservation measures should be taken. The development of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in bats would thus open new perspectives. In this context we here describe the first successful cryopreservation of bat sperm in the Seba's short-tailed bat (Carollia perspicillata). Epididymal sperm of 30 males was pooled in 6 sample sets and diluted using four different cryo-diluents: Canifreeze, modified Canifreeze, BotuCrio® and Test egg yolk extender. Glycerol and a mixture of glycerol and methylformamide were used as cryoprotectants. Best post-thaw results were achieved when sperm was diluted in Test egg yolk extender containing a mixture of glycerol and methylformamide as cryoprotectant. Post-thaw sperm motility, progressive motility and acrosome integrity of 42.0 ± 3.4%, 28.3 ± 6.3% and 87.7 ± 1.7%, respectively were superior to all other variants tested. It remains to be determined if the post-thaw quality of cryopreserved bat spermatozoa achieved in this study is sufficient for the use in artificial inseminations and produces acceptable pregnancy rates. Successful cryopreservation of spermatozoa in C. perspicillata may serve as the first model to establish gamete rescue programs and develop ART in other, critically endangered bat species.
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Biotechnology for Wildlife. ADVANCES IN ANIMAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2019. [PMCID: PMC7153411 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21309-1_46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
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