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Mogielnicka-Brzozowska M, Cichowska AW. Molecular Biomarkers of Canine Reproductive Functions. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:6139-6168. [PMID: 38921038 PMCID: PMC11202846 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of the current study is to review potential molecular biomarker substances selected so far as useful for assessing the quality of dog semen. Proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and ions can serve as molecular biomarkers of reproductive functions (BRFs) for evaluating male reproductive health and identifying potential risk factors for infertility or reproductive disorders. Evaluation of BRF levels in semen samples or reproductive tissues may provide insights into the underlying causes of infertility, such as impaired sperm function, abnormal sperm-egg interaction, or dysfunction of the male reproductive tract. Molecular biomarker proteins may be divided into two groups: proteins that are well-studied, such as A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs), albumins (ALBs), alkaline phosphatase (ALPL), clusterin (CLU), canine prostate-specific esterase (CPSE), cysteine-rich secretory protein 2 (CRISP2), lactotransferrin (LTF), metalloproteinases (MMPs), and osteopontin (OPN) and proteins that are not well-studied. Non-protein markers include lipid-based substances (fatty acids, phosphatidylcholine), carbohydrates (glycosaminoglycans), and ions (zinc, calcium). Assessing the levels of BRFs in semen samples may provide valuable information for breeding management and reproductive assessments in dogs. This review systematizes current knowledge that could serve as a starting point for developing practical tests with the use of biomarkers of canine reproductive functions and their predictive value for assisted reproductive technique outcomes and semen preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Mogielnicka-Brzozowska
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
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de Almeida MA, Haupenthal LG, Silva AN, Schneider GM, Rosa PMDS, de Andrade AFC, Silva LA, Meirelles FV, da Silveira JC, Perecin F, Alves MBR. A longer period of epididymal sperm interaction with extender components during cryopreservation improves sperm quality, decreases the size of sperm distal cytoplasmic droplets, and changes the number of nanoparticles in the extender. Cryobiology 2024; 115:104901. [PMID: 38754687 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2024.104901] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
While cryopreservation of cauda epididymal sperm (SpCau) allows the preservation of post-mortem bulls' gametes, the process triggers sperm damage. Although improving post-thaw sperm quality, using egg yolk extenders (EY) raises biosafety concerns which forces the use of EY-free extenders (EYFE). Since EYFE are less efficient in preserving post-thaw sperm quality, a strategy for ejaculated sperm (SpEj) frozen with EYFE is to add an Equilibrium Time (ET) step period to the cryopreservation process. However, the ET effect on the quality of SpCau cryopreserved in EYFE remains unknown. Distinct from SpEJ, SpCau physiologically displays cytoplasmic droplets (CDs) in the flagellum that may benefit cell exchange during ET. We hypothesized that using ET in SpCau cryopreserved with EYFE impacts sperm morphofunctional features, CD area, and in vitro fertility ability. Extender nanoparticles were also assessed. Following collection from the cauda epididymis of six Nellore bulls by retrograde flow, SpCau were cryopreserved in EYFE BoviFree® (Minitube, Germany) using three ET protocols: ET0 (no-ET); ET2.5 (2.5 h-ET); and ET5 (5 h-ET). SpCau from ET2.5 and ET5 showed a higher (P ≤ 0.05) percentage of motility and integrity of plasma and acrosome membranes and a smaller (P ≤ 0.05) distal CD area. There are no differences in sperm abnormalities, oxidative stress, capacitation-like events, and in vitro fertility ability. However, a better sperm recovery was found after Percoll® selection for ET2.5 and ET5. Interestingly, the number of nanoparticles in the extender decreased in post-thawed samples. In conclusion, an ET of 2.5 or 5 h is required for an efficient SpCau cryopreservation using an EYFE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Alice de Almeida
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil; Jaguariuna University Center - UniFAJ-UniEduK, Jaguariúna, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Laura Gabrielli Haupenthal
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil; Jaguariuna University Center - UniFAJ-UniEduK, Jaguariúna, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Amanda Nespolo Silva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Melendes Schneider
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paola Maria da Silva Rosa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Furugen César de Andrade
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciano Andrade Silva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maíra Bianchi Rodrigues Alves
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Pathology, Theriogenology, and One Health, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences of São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil.
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3
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Dode MAN, Capobianco N, Vargas LN, Mion B, Kussano NR, Spricigo JF, Franco MM. Seminal cell-free DNA as a potential marker for in vitro fertility of Nellore bulls. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1357-1370. [PMID: 38438770 PMCID: PMC11143116 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03068-y] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to identify a marker for freezability and in vitro fertility of sperm samples before freezing. METHODS Semen was collected from nine Nelore bulls; half of the ejaculate was used for seminal plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) quantification, and the other half was cryopreserved. Evaluation of sperm movement using computer-assisted semen analysis and plasma membrane integrity and stability, acrosomal integrity, apoptosis, and mitochondrial potential using flow cytometry were performed on fresh and frozen/thawed semen at 0, 3, 6, and 12 h after thawing. Frozen/thawed sperm was also used for in vitro embryo production. cfDNA was extracted from each bull, and the total DNA and number of cell-free mitochondrial DNA (cfmtDNA) copies were quantified. Semen from each animal was used for IVF, and cleavage, blastocyst formation, and cell counts were evaluated. RESULTS Two groups were formed and compared based on the concentrations of cfDNA and cfmDNA present: low-cfDNA and high-cfDNA and low-cfmtDNA and high-cfmtDNA. Up to 12 h post-thawing, there were no differences between the groups in the majority of the sperm parameters evaluated. Cleavage, day 6 and 7 blastocyst rates, and the number of cells were higher in the high cfDNA group than in the low cfDNA group. Similar results were observed for cfmtDNA, except for the number of cells, which was similar between the groups. CONCLUSION The concentration of cfDNA and the relative number of copies of cfmtDNA in seminal plasma cannot predict the freezability of semen but can be used to predict in vitro embryo production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margot A N Dode
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
| | - Natalia Capobianco
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Luna Nascimento Vargas
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Bruna Mion
- Department of Animal Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Nayara Ribeiro Kussano
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - José Felipe Spricigo
- School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Federal University of Goiás, Goiania, GO, Brazil
| | - Mauricio Machaim Franco
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Santos MVO, Silva AM, Aquino LVC, Oliveira LRM, Moreira SSJ, Oliveira MF, Silva AR, Pereira AF. Different Methods for Seminal Plasma Removal and Sperm Selection on the Quality and Fertility of Collared Peccary Sperm. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1955. [PMID: 37370465 DOI: 10.3390/ani13121955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Methods for seminal plasma (SP) removal and the selection of collared peccary sperm for fertilization were compared. The experiments evaluated the following: the (I) impact of centrifugation for SP removal before swim-up for sperm selection and (II) a comparison of different Percoll® gradient densities (PG 45-90% and PG 35-70%). Non-selected sperm served as the control. Sperm quality was assessed based on motility patterns, morphology, membrane functional integrity, viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH), and DNA integrity. Subsequently, the most successful group in the previous experiment and washing by centrifugation (WC) were compared for motility patterns and fertilization using pig oocytes. Swim-up decreased motility and enhanced ROS compared to the control. Centrifugation before swim-up harmed integrity and viability compared to the control. PG 45-90% (96.8 vs. 69.7 vs. 40.7 µm/s) allowed for a better velocity average pathway (VAP), a better velocity straight line, and better linearity (LIN) than those of the control and PG 35-70% (88.4 vs. 56.0 vs. 27.3 µm/s). Thus, PG 45-90% was used for fertilization. PG 45-90% obtained a higher VAP, a higher amplitude of the lateral head, straightness, and higher LIN than those of the control and WC. Cleavage (25.2-26.3%) and morula (8.1-10.5%) rates did not differ between the groups. Therefore, PG 45-90% and WC were efficient in isolating collared peccary sperm capable of fertilizing pig oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V O Santos
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro 59625-900, RN, Brazil
| | - Andréia M Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro 59625-900, RN, Brazil
| | - Leonardo V C Aquino
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro 59625-900, RN, Brazil
| | - Lhara R M Oliveira
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro 59625-900, RN, Brazil
| | - Samara S J Moreira
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro 59625-900, RN, Brazil
| | - Moacir F Oliveira
- Laboratory of Applied Animal Morphophysiology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro 59625-900, RN, Brazil
| | - Alexandre R Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro 59625-900, RN, Brazil
| | - Alexsandra F Pereira
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro 59625-900, RN, Brazil
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Freitas ML, Viana JHM, Dode MAN, Maggiotto SR, Pivato I, Braga TRC, Lim AIPG, de Oliveira RA. Seasonality does not influence cortisol or testosterone production, or seminal quality of stallions located at low latitudes. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 250:107202. [PMID: 36913897 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107202] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
The effects of seasonality on the reproduction of stallions vary based on the latitude. Although previous studies have shown the influence of seasonality in raw semen quality in south-eastern Brazil, data regarding the influence of seasonality in cooled and frozen stored semen in Brazil is limited. Therefore, in this study, we have analysed if seasonality influences the hormone production (i.e., cortisol and testosterone), spermatogenesis, and quality of fresh, cooled, and frozen semen of stallions in central Brazil, and established the season most suitable for semen cryopreservation in a latitude of 15°S. Ten stallions were followed-up for one year, which was divided into two seasons, namely, drought, and rainy. Fresh, cooled, and frozen-thawed semen samples were assessed using CASA and flow cytometry. Additionally, the temperature and humidity index (THI) was calculated to determine the thermal stress. Although the THI varied between the two seasons, no thermal stress was observed throughout the year, nor were there differences in the physiological parameters of the stallions or plasma cortisol or testosterone levels. Furthermore, differences were not detected in total and progressive motility, sperm capacitation, and sperm membrane integrity, as well as in the number of live sperm with intact acrosomes and high mitochondrial membrane potential, between the two seasons in the fresh and frozen-thawed semen. Our data suggest that semen can be effectively collected and cryopreserved throughout the year within central regions of Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariane Leão Freitas
- University of Brasília, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Animal Reproduction (FAV/UnB), Brasília, Brazil
| | | | - Margot Alves Nunes Dode
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Selma Regina Maggiotto
- University of Brasília, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Animal Reproduction (FAV/UnB), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Ivo Pivato
- University of Brasília, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Animal Reproduction (FAV/UnB), Brasília, Brazil
| | | | - Alexandre In Piao Gomes Lim
- University of Brasília, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Animal Reproduction (FAV/UnB), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Arruda de Oliveira
- University of Brasília, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Animal Reproduction (FAV/UnB), Brasília, Brazil.
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Dziekońska A, Koziorowska-Gilun M, Kordan W, Neuman NM, Kotlarczyk AM, Korzekwa AJ. The Quality and Fertilizing Potential of Red Deer ( Cervus elaphus L.) Epididymal Spermatozoa Stored in a Liquid State. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314591. [PMID: 36498927 PMCID: PMC9741111 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the quality and fertilizing potential of red deer epididymal spermatozoa stored in a liquid state for up to 11 days (D11). In Experiment 1, sperm quality was determined. In Experiment 2, the efficiency of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and artificial insemination (AI) of stored sperm were evaluated. An analysis of sperm quality on D5 of storage revealed a decrease (p < 0.05) in motility and morphology, and a higher proportion of apoptotic spermatozoa. On D1, D7 and D10, the total motility of sperm for IVF and AI was determined to be 82.6%, 71.0% and 64.8%, respectively. The results of IVF and AI demonstrated that the fertilizing potential of spermatozoa differs between days of storage. The percentage of blastocysts was higher when oocytes were fertilized on D1 (17.4 %) compared to D7 (8.5%) and D10 sperm (10.5%). Differences were noted in the pregnancy rates of inseminated hinds. The insemination with D1, D7 and D10 sperm led to live births (33% from D7 and D10). The results indicate that the quality of red deer epididymal spermatozoa remains satisfactory during ten days of storage in a liquid state, and that these spermatozoa maintain their fertility potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Dziekońska
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Magdalena Koziorowska-Gilun
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Władysław Kordan
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Nicoletta M. Neuman
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Angelika M. Kotlarczyk
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal, Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IAR & FR PAS), Tuwima 10 Str., 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Anna J. Korzekwa
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal, Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IAR & FR PAS), Tuwima 10 Str., 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
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Adona PR, de Souza YL, dos Santos Miranda M, Rodrigues I, Guemra S, Ferreira MB. Fertility analysis of bovine semen by in vitro fertilization. Trop Anim Health Prod 2022; 54:137. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-022-03147-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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8
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Ogata H, Tsukamoto M, Yamashita K, Iwamori T, Takahashi H, Kaneko T, Iwamori N, Inai T, Iida H. Effects of Calyculin a on the Motility and Protein Phosphorylation in Frozen-Thawed Bull Spermatozoa. Zoolog Sci 2021; 38:531-543. [PMID: 34854285 DOI: 10.2108/zs210046] [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: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we examined the effects of calyculin A, a phosphatase inhibitor, on motility, protein phosphorylation, and the distribution of phospho-(Ser/Thr) PKA substrates in frozen-thawed bull spermatozoa that are actually used by most farmers for breeding. The data showed that calyculin A, which has been reported to have a positive effect on the motility of ejaculated fresh spermatozoa, distinctly decreased the motility of frozen-thawed bull spermatozoa even if a cell activator, such as caffeine, was present in the incubation medium and that the suppressive effect of calyculin A was dose-dependent and continued for at least 200 min. Immunoblot analyses revealed that de novo protein phosphorylation was not detected in spermatozoa exposed to caffeine or dbcAMP (a cell-permeable cAMP analog), while the addition of calyculin A to the medium brought about the appearance of several phosphorylated proteins at 50 kDa and 75 kDa, suggesting that 50 kDa and 75 kDa proteins, which were phosphorylated by activation of cAMP-dependent PKA, were not dephosphorylated and were accumulated in spermatozoa due to the suppression of calyculin A-sensitive protein phosphatases. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that calyculin A caused, alone or in conjunction with caffeine or dbcAMP, the accumulation of phospho-PKA substrates at the annulus, although caffeine or dbcAMP alone did not. This study suggested that calyculin A decreases the motility of frozen-thawed bull spermatozoa concomitant with the accumulation of phospho-(Ser/Thr) PKA substrates at the annulus of flagella.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honami Ogata
- Laboratory of Zoology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Mariko Tsukamoto
- Laboratory of Zoology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Kenichi Yamashita
- Sensing System Research Center, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tosu, Saga 841-0052, Japan
| | - Tokuko Iwamori
- Laboratory of Zoology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Takahashi
- Kuju Agriculture Research Center, Kyushu University, Oita 878-0201, Japan
| | - Takane Kaneko
- Laboratory of Zoology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Naoki Iwamori
- Laboratory of Zoology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Tetsuichiro Inai
- Department of Morphological Biology, Fukuoka Dental College, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka 814-0193, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Iida
- Laboratory of Zoology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan,
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9
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Simões LMS, Santos APC, Bottino MP, Lima EA, Fernandes UR, Orlandi RE, Rodrigues SAD, Caixeta FM, Alves NG, Souza JC, Quintão CCR, Camargo LSA, Dode MAN, Sales JNS. Nuclear maturation kinetics and in vitro fertilization of immature bovine oocytes injected into pre-ovulatory follicles. Theriogenology 2021; 166:90-96. [PMID: 33711651 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The maturation kinetics and in vitro fertilization of immature bovine oocytes injected by the intra-follicular oocyte injection (IFOT) technique into pre-ovulatory follicles of previously synchronized cows were evaluated. In Experiment 1, grade I, II and III cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were randomly distributed to one of three Groups: Matvitro22 (COCs matured in vitro for 22 h), MatFol20 and MatFol28 (COCs matured in vivo after being injected into a pre-ovulatory follicle of previously synchronized cows for 19.8 ± 0.1 h and 28.3 ± 0.1 h, respectively). Cows received 12.5 mg of LH (Lutropin, Bioniche, Canada) at the time of IFOT in the MatFol20 Group or 10 h after IFOT in the MatFol28 Group. MatFol20 and MatFol28 COCs were aspirated approximately 20 h after the LH injection for nuclear maturation kinetics and recovery rate assessment. In Experiment 2, grade I, II, and III COCs were randomly distributed into two Groups: Matvitro22 Group, COCs were matured and fertilized in vitro, and MatFol20 Group, COCs were matured as in the MatFol20 Group in Experiment 1, but COCs were fertilized in vitro. Putative zygotes were classified as fertilized, unfertilized or polyspermic. In Experiment 1, the recovery rate was lower (P < 0.001) in the MatFol20 Group (52.9%, 91/172) compared with MatFol28 (72.9%, 113/155). Rate of oocytes in germinal vesicle stage, metaphase I, anaphase I and telophase I were similar among Groups. However, oocytes matured in vivo for 28.3 h had lower rate of metaphase II (P = 0.001) and greater rates of degenerated (P = 0.001) and parthenogenetically activated (P = 0.001) oocytes. In experiment 2, the rates of polyspermy and degenerated were similar between Groups. However, the rate of fertilized oocytes was greater (P = 0.05) in oocytes in the MatFol20 Group. It is concluded that oocyte in vivo maturation for 19.8 h after IFOT does not compromise the nuclear maturation kinetics and increases in vitro fertilization rates. However, the extra 10 h of intra-follicular incubation time decreased oocyte viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M S Simões
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil.
| | - A P C Santos
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil
| | - M P Bottino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil
| | - E A Lima
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil
| | - U R Fernandes
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil
| | - R E Orlandi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil
| | - S A D Rodrigues
- School of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF, 70910-970, Brazil
| | - F M Caixeta
- School of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF, 70910-970, Brazil
| | - N G Alves
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil
| | - J C Souza
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil
| | - C C R Quintão
- Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36098-330, Brazil
| | - L S A Camargo
- Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36098-330, Brazil
| | - M A N Dode
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia, DF, 70770-917, Brazil
| | - J N S Sales
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, MG, 37200-900, Brazil; Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, 36010-041, Brazil
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10
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Roldan ERS, Teves ME. Understanding sperm physiology: Proximate and evolutionary explanations of sperm diversity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110980. [PMID: 32853744 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Much can be gained from the comprehensive study of a biological system. Based on what is known as Mayr's proximate-ultimate causation and the subsequent expansion to Tinbergen's four questions, biological traits can be understood by taking into account different approximations that try to explain mechanisms, development, adaptive significance or phylogeny. These, in principle, separate areas, can be integrated crossing boundaries, but bearing in mind that answers to one question would not explain a different query. Studies of sperm biology have, until now, not benefited much from this framework and potential integration. Proximate causes (particularly mechanisms) have been the subject of interest for reproductive biologists, and evolutionary explanations have been the domain of behavioural ecologists with interest in adaptive significance of traits in the context of post-copulatory sexual selection. This review will summarize opportunities for research in the different areas, focusing on sperm preparation for fertilization and suggesting possible integration within and between proximate and evolutionary studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo R S Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Maria Eugenia Teves
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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Baldi E, Tamburrino L, Muratori M, Degl'Innocenti S, Marchiani S. Adverse effects of in vitro manipulation of spermatozoa. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 220:106314. [PMID: 32089373 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Development of in vitro reproduction techniques has not only offered some infertile couples the possibility to have a child, it also revolutionized animal reproduction. Although in vitro reproduction techniques for humans or domestic and non-domestic animals have been designed to mimic in vivo conditions, modifications due to environmental effects or in vitro manipulation of gametes and embryos are unavoidable. For male gametes, in vitro manipulations include techniques to select spermatozoa, cryopreservation and other incubation procedures, during which spermatozoa may be exposed to oxidative stress and other insults that may damage their functions and DNA. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of key studies reporting sperm damage during in vitro manipulation, with particular focus on effects on DNA integrity, a fundamental factor for fertilization and transmission of paternal genetic information to offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Baldi
- Departments of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy.
| | - Lara Tamburrino
- Departments of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy.
| | - Monica Muratori
- Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Science, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy.
| | - Selene Degl'Innocenti
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy.
| | - Sara Marchiani
- Departments of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy.
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12
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Cunha ATM, Silva LP, Carvalho JO, Dode MAN. Shape and size of epididymal sperm from Gir bulls using atomic force microscopy: A nanoscale characterization of epididymal sperm. Reprod Biol 2019; 20:37-41. [PMID: 31899131 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.12.007] [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: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
As epididymal sperm (EP) are not exposed to seminal plasma, they are physiologically different from ejaculated spermatozoa (EJ). Therefore, the aim of this study was to morphologically characterize the head of EP recovered from the epididymis tail, and to evaluate if the physiological differences between EP and EJ were also expressed in the head's shape and size. EP and EJ were recovered from seven Gir bulls and were individually assessed. Sperm cells were washed, fixed, and 20 cells from each animal were analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The images were acquired through contact mode. Then, an off-line processing software was used and the images acquired were manually segmented using digital zoom of the original images. Twenty-four structural features were assessed including one, two, and three dimensional parameters, and also shape descriptors which were calculated based on the one and two dimensional parameters. Data were compared by t-test, then, a collective analysis was performed using principal component analysis (PCA). The EP group presented higher roughness and elongation (P ≤ 0.05), and smaller form factor and circularity rate than that of the EJ group (P ≤ 0.05). For the other parameters no differences (P ≥ 0.05) were observed. In addition, in the PCA analysis no differences among EP and EJ were observed either (P ≤ 0.05). This study showed that EP and EJ collected from the same sire presented similar characteristics in nineteen of the twenty-four parameters evaluated, indicating that absence of seminal plasma does not affect the morphology of EP.
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