Improvement of post-thawed sperm quality in broiler breeder roosters by ellagic acid-loaded liposomes

In Vitro Effects of Charged and Zwitterionic Liposomes on Human Spermatozoa and Supplementation with Liposomes and Chlorogenic Acid during Sperm Freezing

Semen handling and cryopreservation induce oxidative stress that should be minimized. In this study, human semen was supplemented during cryopreservation with formulations of handmade liposomes and chlorogenic acid (CGA), an antioxidant compound. Zwitterionic (ZL), anionic (AL), and cationic (CL) liposomes were synthesized and characterized. Three aliquots of swim-up-selected sperm were incubated with ZL, AL, and CL (1:10,000), respectively. The percentages of sperm with progressive motility, high mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP; JC-1), double-stranded DNA (dsDNA acridine orange), and acrosome integrity (Pisum sativum agglutinin) were assessed. Then, human semen was frozen using both 1:10,000 ZL and CGA as follows: freezing medium/empty ZL (EL), freezing medium/empty ZL/CGA in the medium (CGA + EL), freezing medium/CGA loaded ZL (CGA), freezing medium (CTR). The same sperm endpoints were evaluated. ZL were the most tolerated and used for semen cryopreservation protocols. All the supplemented samples showed better endpoints versus CTR (p < 0.001). In particular, spermatozoa from the CGA and CGA + EL A samples showed increased motility, dsDNA, and acrosome integrity versus CTR and EL (p < 0.001; motility EL vs. CGA + EL p < 0.05). ZL and CGA can improve post-thaw sperm quality, acting on both cold shock effect management and oxidative stress. These findings open new perspectives on human and animal reproduction.

Enhancing post-thaw quality of ram epididymal sperm by supplementation of rutin in cryopreservation extender

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of different rutin concentrations on rams epididymal sperm. A local slaughterhouse provided 50 pair of testes from 25 rams. The testes were sent to the lab at room temperature. Spermatozoa were extracted by suspending portions of cauda epididymis in tris solution. Ram sperm was cryopreserved (in liquid nitrogen) in a tris extender containing rutin at 0, 0.5, 0.75, 1, and 1.25 mM. Rutin showed superior sperm total and progressive motility, beat cross frequency, straight line velocity, velocity average pathway and membrane integrity values at 0.75 and 1 mM. The morphology of the sperm and the superoxide dismutase levels did not significantly change with different treatments. Moreover, rutin at 0.75 and 1 mM was also shown to have the highest level of mitochondrial activity. The results showed ATP, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione peroxidase levels were significantly greater in the rutin 0.75 and 1 mM groups (P < 0.05). Rutin at 0.75 and 1 mM levels had the lowest reactive oxygen species concentrations. Rutin at 0.75 and 1 mM substantially increased the proportion of viable sperm (P < 0.05). The lowest amount of apoptosis was observed in 0.75 and 1 mM rutin. Rutin at 0.75 and 1 mM yielded the least significant percentage of dead sperm. It may be inferred that adding 0.75 and 1 mM to the sperm extender can enhance the quality of the epididymal sperm in rams after the cryopreservation process.

Effects of propolis-loaded nanoliposomes fortification in extender on buffalo semen cryopreservation

Buffalo sperm is sensitive to cryoinjuries, thus improving sperm cryoresistance is a critical approach for wide spreading the assisted reproductive technologies in buffalo. The intention of this work was to assess the effect of propolis-loaded in nanoliposomes (PRNL) supplementation of semen extender on semen quality, antioxidant status and some apoptotic genes of cryopreserved buffalo semen. PRNL were prepared using cholesterol (Chol) as well as soybean lecithin and their physicochemical properties were characterized. Egyptian buffalo bulls (4-6 years) were involved, and the semen samples were collected using the artificial vagina method. Buffalo semen was pooled (n = 25 ejaculates) and cryopreserved in tris extender containing PRNL at 0 (PRNL0), 2 (PRNL2), 4 (PRNL4) and 6 µg/mL (PRNL6), respectively. The PRNL had a size of 113.13 nm and a negative zeta potential (- 56.83 mV). Sperm progressive motility, viability, membrane integrity, abnormalities, chromatin damage, redox status, apoptosis status, and apoptotic genes were investigated after post-thawed buffalo semen. Using 2 or 4 µg/mL PRNL significantly increased sperm progressive motility, viability, and membrane integrity, while sperm abnormalities and the percentage of chromatin damages were the lowest in PRNL2 group. Moreover, the PRNL2 group exhibited the best results for all antioxidative activities (TAC, SOD, GPx and CAT) with significantly higher levels than the other groups (P < 0.05). The levels of ROS and MDA were significantly lower in the PRLN2 compared with other groups. The sperm caspase 3 enzyme activities showed the lowest values in PRNL2 groups followed by PRNL4 and PRNL6 groups with significant differences compared with the control. Adding 2 µg/mL PRNL to freezing media significantly reduced apoptotic genes such as Bax and Caspase 3 in sperm, while significantly increase in Bcl2 expression compared with the control (P < 0.001). The expression of Bcl2, Caspase 3 and Bax genes in sperm were not affected by the 6 µg/mL PRNL addition (P > 0.05). The electron micrography descriptions exemplified that the fortification of 2 or 4 µg/mL PRNL maintained the acrosomal and plasma membrane integrities as well as sustained the ultrastructure integrity of the cryopreserved buffalo spermatozoa when compared with control group, whereas the 6 µg/mL of PRNL demonstrated highest injury to the acrosome and plasma membranes. Results show supplementation of the buffalo freezing extender with 2 or 4 µg/mL of PRNL enhanced post-thawed sperm quality via boosting the antioxidant indices, diminishing the oxidative stress and apoptosis as well as maintained the ultrastructure integrity of frozen-thawed buffalo sperm.

Establishment of methods to analyze the structural and functional integrity of the quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) sperm plasma membrane

1. The objectives of this study were to establish the use of the fluorophores Hoechst 33342 and propidium iodide for the evaluation of sperm plasma membrane integrity and to identify an adequate hypoosmotic solution for the evaluation of sperm membrane functionality in quails.2. Sperm samples were collected from the vas deferens of nine quails. After initial evaluation, the samples were subjected to a flash-frozen assay. Three treatments with the following proportions of fresh sperm and sperm subjected to flash freezing were prepared as follows: 100:0 (T100), 50:50 (T50), and 0:100 (T0). The hypoosmotic swelling test used distilled water (0 mOsm/l) and fructose solutions (50, 100, and 200 mOsm/l).3. Immediately after recovery, the samples showed 75.6 ± 5.0% motility with vigour of 3.7 ± 0.3 and 96.1 ± 0.5% of the sperm appeared normal. The membrane integrity test showed 62.2 ± 5.2% intact sperm at T100, 29.0 ± 4.1% at T50 and 0.1 ± 0.1% at T0. Moreover, a greater number of reactive sperm (74.7 ± 6.7%) were observed when incubated in distilled water (0 mOsm/l) in comparison to other solutions (P < 0.05).4. The association of fluorescent probes composed of Hoechst 33342 and propidium iodide provided an efficient assessment of the integrity of the plasmatic membrane of quail spermatozoa. However, the study identified that the hypoosmotic swelling test has little predictive value regarding sperm membrane functionality in this species.

Supplementation of Alpha-lipoic acid-loaded nanoliposomes in semen extender improves freezability of buffalo spermatozoa

This research was designed to explore the protective effect of alpha-lipoic acid-loaded nanoliposomes (ALAN) during cryopreservation of buffalo sperm. Buffalo semen was cryopreserved in a tris-citrate egg yolk extender without any supplement (ALAN0, control group) or with ALAN at levels of 25, 50, 75 or 150 µg (ALAN25, ALAN50, ALAN75 and ALAN150, respectively). The ALAN had a size of 171.80 nm and a negative zeta potential (- 43.40 mV). The progressive motility, vitality and membrane integrity significantly improved in all ALAN groups (except ALAN25 for membrane integrity). ALAN150 group exhibited the best values of progressive sperm motility, vitality and membrane integrity after thawing at 37 °C for 30 s or incubated for 2 h at 37 °C and 5% CO₂ compared with those in other groups. Both ALAN75 and ALAN150 groups significantly improved the TAC, GR and catalase, while lipid peroxidation and early apoptotic spermatozoa significantly decreased in ALAN150 group followed by ALAN75 group. Collectively, the adding ALAN to buffalo semen freezing extender plays a substantial shielding function against cryodamage by preserving the sperm functional parameters.

The effects of dietary ellagic acid supplementation on growth performance, immune response, antioxidant activity, digestive enzyme activities, and intestinal functions in yellow-feathered broilers

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with ellagic acid (EA) on the performance, immune function, antioxidant activity, digestive enzyme activities, and intestinal functions in yellow-feathered broilers. In total, 288 healthy yellow-feathered broilers with an average body weight of 39 ± 0.24 g were randomly divided into four treatment groups. Broilers were given a corn-soybean meal basal diet supplemented with 0 (control group), 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg EA. In the finisher period and the overall period, the inclusion of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg EA increased the average daily gain (P < 0.05), and the inclusion of 200 or 400 mg/kg EA decreased the feed/gain ratio compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The best immune activity (immunoglobulin G [IgG] and immunoglobulin M [IgM] concentrations) in serum was shown in the 200 mg/kg EA group (P < 0.05). Broilers fed with 200 or 400 mg/kg EA-containing diets exhibited higher serum catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities (P < 0.05) than control broilers. The inclusion of 200 mg/kg EA in the broiler diets increased intestinal chymotrypsin, pepsin, and lipase activities (P < 0.05). Broilers fed 200 mg/kg EA-containing diets had higher villus height in the jejunum and ileum, a higher ratio between villus height and crypt depth in the jejunum, and a deeper crypt in the duodenum compared to control broilers (P < 0.05). EA reduced the diamine oxidase activity and D-lactate concentration in serum. Furthermore, in birds fed EA-containing diets, the abundance of Rikenella and norank_f_norank_o_Clostridia_UCG-014 in cecum were decreased compared with control birds (P < 0.05). Moreover, in birds fed EA-containing diets, the levels of acetate, butyrate, and total short-chain fatty acids in the cecum were higher (P < 0.05) than those in control birds. These findings indicated that dietary EA had ameliorative effects on antioxidant capability, digestive enzyme activity, immune function, and intestinal functions, which led to strengthened growth performance.

In Vitro Combination of Ascorbic and Ellagic Acids in Sperm Oxidative Damage Inhibition

It is known that an altered redox balance interferes with normal spermatic functions. Exposure to genotoxic substances capable of producing oxidative stress (OS) can cause infertility in humans. The use of antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress contributes to the improvement in reproductive function. This study focused on an antigenotoxic evaluation of ellagic acid (EA) and ascorbic acid (AA) in combination against benzene genotoxic action on human spermatozoa in vitro. In addition to the evaluation of sperm parameters, damage in sperm genetic material and intracellular ROS quantification were assessed after AA, EA and benzene co-exposure using the TUNEL technique and DCF assay. The results showed that the combination of the two antioxidants generates a greater time-dependent antigenotoxic action, reducing both the sperm DNA fragmentation index and the oxidative stress. The genoprotective effect of AA and EA association in sperm cells lays the foundations for a more in-depth clinical study on the use of antioxidants as a therapy for male infertility.

Advances in storage of poultry semen

Semen cryopreservation is a key biotechnological strategy used to preserve and protect genetic resources, which are subject to increasingly serious reductions in some species, and to protect animal biodiversity. Assisted reproductive techniques, however, are still not utilized to the same extent in avian species to the extent that occurs in mammals. The reasons for this situation are described in this review. The content of this paper is focused on current poultry preservation systems, published since 2010, and new strategies that are very promising for preserving avian genetic resources. Two major types of storage technologies which are utilized for avian sperm preservation, liquid storage and cryopreservation, are emphasized. The issues on which there is a focus includes supplementation of avian extenders with various compounds prior to the preservation period, use of cryoprotectants and fertility results when there were in vitro sperm evaluations. Results from recent studies indicate there are opportunities to improve the quality of bird semen after preservation. It is obvious that cryo-diluent composition may be the most important factor for development of efficacious cryopreservation methods for avian semen.

Chestnut Wood Mud as a Source of Ellagic Acid for Dermo-Cosmetic Applications

Ellagic acid (EA) has long been recognized as a very active antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agent. However, its low bioavailability has often hampered its applications in health-related fields. Here, we report a phospholipid vesicle-based controlled release system for EA, involving the exploitation of chestnut wood mud (CWM), an industrial by-product from chestnut tannin production, as a largely available and low-cost source of this compound. Two kinds of CWM with different particle size distributions, indicated as CWM-A and CWM-B (<100 and 32 µm, respectively), containing 5 ± 1% w/w EA, were incorporated into transfersomes. The latter were small in size (~100 nm), homogeneously dispersed, and negatively charged. 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) assays indicated up to three-fold improvement in the antioxidant properties of CWM upon incorporation into transfersomes. The kinetics of EA released under simulated physiological conditions were evaluated by UV-Vis spectroscopy and HPLC analysis. The best results were obtained with CWM-B (100% of EA gradually released after 37 days at pH 7.4). A stepwise increase in the antioxidant properties of the released material was also observed. Cell-based experiments confirmed the efficacy of CWM-B transfersomes as antioxidant agents in contrasting photodamage.

Sperm flow cytometric parameters, antioxidant status, and testicular histomorphology in roosters fed diets supplemented with camphor

Genetic selection based on the high growth rate and consequently high slaughter weight in broiler chickens has caused many problems in broiler breeders. A negative correlation between growth and reproductive traits has declined semen quality and fertility in roosters. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of camphor levels on some reproductive parameters included semen parameters, antioxidant status, and testicular development in broiler breeder roosters. Thirty-five ROSS 308 broiler breeder roosters were divided into 5 groups to receive camphor (C) levels: C0, C50, C250, C750, and C1000 ppm for 12 consecutive weeks (31–43 wk). Body weight, seminal volume, sperm concentration, and percentage of live and morphologically normal sperm were not affected by diets (P > 0.05), however, significantly were changed by bird age over the experiment (P < 0.05). Semen quality factor (SQF) significantly was affected by both diets and age (P < 0.05). Mitochondrial activity, apoptotic-like changes, and DNA fragmentation were improved in the groups fed camphor levels compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Testes weight (left, right, and combined weights) and gonadosomatic index were increased linearly by the camphor supplementation (P < 0.05). The serum activity of glutathione peroxidase (GP_X) was not affected by treatments, however, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity were significantly higher in C50, C250, and C750, respectively (P < 0.05). The lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the testes and liver samples was observed in C750 (P < 0.05). Excluding the number of Sertoli cells and blood vessels, other histomorphological traits of testes showed one of the linear or quadratic responses to the camphor levels (P < 0.05). It can be concluded that camphor as an antioxidant source may improve reproduction performance in roosters.

Ellagic Acid Improves Antioxidant Capacity and Intestinal Barrier Function of Heat-Stressed Broilers via Regulating Gut Microbiota

Heat stress (HS) has been revealed to damage the antioxidant system and intestinal barrier function, which greatly threatens poultry production. The present study investigated the effects of dietary ellagic acid (EA) on the antioxidant system, gut barrier function, and gut microbiota of heat-stressed broilers. Arbor Acres 14-day-old broilers numbering 360 were randomly divided into six groups, including one negative control group (NC) and five experimental groups. The broilers in the NC group were supplemented with a basal diet at a normal temperature (23 ± 2 °C). The broilers in the experimental groups were supplemented with basal diets containing EA at different doses (0, 75, 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg) at HS temperature (35 ± 2 °C). The experiment lasted for 4 weeks. Results showed that dietary EA reduced the corticosterone (CORT), LPS, and diamine oxidase (DAO) levels in the serum of heat-stressed broilers. Additionally, dietary EA improved the antioxidant enzyme activity and mRNA levels of Nrf2/HO-1 in the ileum of heat-stressed broilers. The relative abundances of Streptococcus, Ruminococcus_torques, Rothia, Neisseria, Actinomyces, and Lautropia in the cecum were significantly reduced by the EA supplementation in a dose-dependent manner. Notably, the LPS, DAO, and MDA in the serum were revealed to be positively correlated with the relative abundances of Rothia, Neisseria, Actinomyces, and Lautropia, while the GSH-px, SOD, and CAT levels in the serum were negatively correlated with the relative abundances of Ruminococcus_torques, Rothia, Neisseria, Actinomyces, Streptococcus, and Lautropia. Taken together, dietary EA improved the antioxidant capacity, intestinal barrier function, and alleviated heat-stressed injuries probably via regulating gut microbiota.

Enhancement of sperm quality and fertility-related parameters in Hubbard grandparent rooster fed diets supplemented with soybean lecithin and vitamin E

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of different levels of soybean lecithin and vitamin E on semen quality parameters and some reproductive hormones in Hubbard grandparent roosters. The experiment was conducted in a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement with 3 levels of soybean lecithin (0, 1, and 2%) and 2 levels of vitamin E (0 and 300 mg/kg). Semen samples were collected on d 0, 20, 40 and 60 of the experiment and analyzed. Adding 1% soybean lecithin and vitamin E into the diet increased semen volume and sperm concentration, membrane integrity and viability (P < 0.05). Supplementing diets with 1 or 2% lecithin in addition to vitamin E significantly improved total motility and progressive motility (P < 0.05). Vitamin E significantly increased the amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) of sperm (P < 0.05). Although there was no effect on LH and FSH when diets were supplemented with vitamin E and 1 or 2% lecithin, testosterone concentration was increased (P < 0.05). Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration was significantly lower in all 3 treatments containing vitamin E (P < 0.05). It can be concluded that supplementation of rooster diets with vitamin E and 1% lecithin can improve fertility related parameters in Hubbard grandparent roosters.

Supplementation of freezing medium with encapsulated or free glutathione during cryopreservation of bull sperm

The objective was to compare effects of encapsulated or free glutathione (GSH) on quality of frozen-thawed bull sperm. Ejaculates were collected via artificial vagina from six mature Holstein bulls once weekly for 6 weeks. All ejaculates had motility ≥70%, sperm concentration ≥1.0 × 10⁹ /mL and ≤15% morphologically abnormal sperm. Each week, semen was pooled and diluted with lecithin-based extenders containing various concentrations of encapsulated (E0, E1, E2.5 and E5 mM) or free (F0, F1, F2.5 and F5 mM) GSH, with total glutathione content determined before and after cryopreservation. Total GSH in fresh semen was (mean+SEM) 4.8 ± 0.2 nmol/10⁸ sperm, whereas in frozen-thawed semen of group F0 (control), it decreased to 1.4 ± 0.2 nmol/10⁸ sperm, a 70.8% reduction (P<0.05). In addition, total GSH in frozen-thawed semen from groups E2.5, E5 and F5 were 2.4 ± 0.2, 2.8 ± 0.2 and 1.8 ± 0.2 nmol/10⁸ sperm, respectively (E5 vs. F0, P<0.05). Compared to group F0, frozen-thawed sperm from group E2.5 had greater (P<0.05) percentages of sperm that were viable (Annexin-V) (61.1 ± 1.8 vs 71.1 ± 1.8) and that had cell membrane integrity (eosin-nigrosin) (64.5 ± 3.1 vs 80.0 ± 3.1). Furthermore, frozen-thawed sperm from group E2.5 had the numerically highest total and progressive motility (CASA) and cell membrane functionality (HOS) and the lowest percentage of early apoptotic sperm (Annexin-V). However, acrosome membrane integrity (PSA) of E5 had the lowest mean (P<0.05), whereas E2.5 caused a small nonsignificant decrease (69.1 ± 1.4%) compared to E0 and F0. In conclusion, 2.5 mM encapsulated GSH in semen extender significantly improved the quality of frozen-thawed bull sperm.

Supplementation of Avian Semen Extenders with Antioxidants to Improve Semen Quality-Is It an Effective Strategy?

Oxidative stress in sperm is a phenomenon related to the increasing rate of oxidation of cellular components and the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in bird sperm cell membranes renders these cells particularly susceptible to lipid peroxidation (LPO). Therefore, to ensure the proper functioning of cells, it is necessary to have a balance between the formation of ROS and the protective action of the antioxidant system. This review aims firstly to briefly introduce the antioxidant system characteristics of avian semen. Secondly, we summarize the recent knowledge regarding progress in extender supplementation using antioxidants and other compounds to improve avian semen quality parameters and fertility rates. The review focuses on enzymes, vitamins, amino acids, proteins, some plant extracts, and other compounds that can be used to supplement the extenders to reduce the formation of oxidants in poultry semen and maintain its quality and enhance its fertility.

Does ergothioneine and thawing temperatures improve rooster semen post-thawed quality?

The present study focuses on the effect of different levels of ergothioneine and thawing temperature on rooster semen cryopreservation. Semen was diluted in Lake extender containing ergothioneine at 5, 10, 15, and 20 µM and cryopreserved. Two thawing temperatures (37°C for 30 s and 60°C for 5 s) were consequently examined. Sperm motility parameter, membrane integrity, abnormal morphology, viability, apoptotic status, mitochondria activity, and lipid peroxidation were determined after freeze-thaw process. Ergothioneine levels of 5 and 10 µM led to higher (P < 0.05) total motility (66.58 ± 1.44 and 72.11±1.44, respectively) and average path velocity (VAP) (34.54 ± 0.89, 37.28 ± 0.89, respectively). Higher (P < 0.05) significant membrane integrity and mitochondria activity after freeze-thawing were observed in the groups supplemented with 10 µM ergothioneine (68.62 ± 1.24 and 69.12 ± 1.26, respectively). Also, 5 and 10 µM of ergothioneine led to the lowest significant percentage of apoptotic and dead sperm. The total motility and progressive motility resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) higher amount when sperm were thawed with 60°C (60.58 ± 0.91 and 24.76 ± 0.53, respectively) compared to thawed sperm in 37°C. The membrane integrity, viability and mitochondria activity led to significantly (P < 0.05) higher when sperm were thawed with 60°C (58.2 ± 0.78, 63.21 ± 0.80 and 56.85 ± 0.79, respectively). It could be concluded the addition of 5 and 10 µM ergothioneine in the semen extender and thawing temperature at 60˚C in 5 s can be an efficient strategy to preserve rooster cryopreserved semen quality.

Ameliorative role of trans-ferulic acid on induced oxidative toxicity of rooster semen by β-cyfluthrin during low temperature liquid storage

Current study was designed to evaluate the effects of β-cyfluthrin, as a toxicant substance, and trans-ferulic acid (trans-FA), as a protective agent, on different parameters of rooster semen upon liquid storage. For this purpose, semen samples of roosters (Ross 308, n = 10, 32-wk-old) were collected twice a week. Good quality samples (≥70% progressive motion) were diluted, pooled and then divided for the purposes of the study. In the first experiment, motility of spermatozoa was evaluated following exposure to different concentrations of β-cyfluthrin (1, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 µM) at 0, 24, and 48 h of storage. In the second experiment, constant doses of β-cyfluthrin (10 µM) alone or in combination with trans-FA (10, 25 mM) were assessed on motility and viability of spermatozoa at 0, 24, and 48 h time points. Moreover, amounts of malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total nitrate-nitrite, total hydroperoxide (HPO), and activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) were evaluated in the homogenate of spermatozoa-diluent at studied time points. Results of the first experiment showed that amounts of β-cyfluthrin greater than 5 µM, significantly reduced the motility of spermatozoa at 24 and 48 h of storage (P < 0.05). The second experiment demonstrated that, trans-FA especially at 10, 25 mM doses restored the motility and viability of spermatozoa compared to β-cyfluthrin treated group (P < 0.05). Amounts of MDA (10, 25 mM), hydroperoxide (10, 25, and 50 mM), and nitrate-nitrite (10, 25, and 50 mM) were lower and TAC (10 and 25 mM) were greater in trans-FA + β-cyfluthrin treated groups compared to β-cyfluthrin alone treated samples (P < 0.05). However, activity of SOD did not show significant changes by the treatment (P > 0.05). It seems that trans-FA could ameliorate toxic effect of β-cyfluthrin via reduction of peroxidative (as evident by measurement of MDA) and nitrosative (as evident by measurement of nitrate-nitrite) reactions over cold preservation of rooster semen.

Poloxamer 188 and hydroxyethyl starch have a cryoprotective synergic effect improving post-thawing quality and fertility of rooster spermatozoa

Poloxamer and hydroxyethyl starch have cytoprotective effects. In the present study, effectiveness was evaluated of these compounds as a cryoprotectant for rooster semen. In Experiment 1 (E1), poloxamer 188 (1%, P188), poloxamer 407 (1%, P407), and control groups were compared after sperm cryopreservation. Experiment 2 (E2) was conducted with 3%, 5%, and 7% of hydroxyethyl starch (H3, H5, H7), also combined with P188 (H3P188, H5P188, H7P188), based on results from E1. Sperm motility was assessed using CASA, abnormal forms and hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) were evaluated using microscopy, and viability, apoptotic-like changes, and mitochondrial activity were determined using flow cytometry. In E2, there were assessments of fertility and hatching capacity. Results from E1 indicated total and progressive motility, velocity, membrane functionality, viability, and mitochondrial activity were greater with inclusion of P188 in semen extender, with less apoptotic-like changes (P < 0.05). In E2, HES inclusion in semen extender improved total motility, membrane functionality, and mitochondrial activity (P < 0.05), especially H5, which also markedly increased sperm viability and decreased apoptotic-like changes. The combination of P188 with HES increased sperm quality overall, with inclusion of H5P188 resulting in increases of progressive motility and VSL (P < 0.05). The H5 inclusion also increased proportion of fertilized eggs (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the combination of HES and P188 increased proportions of fertilized and hatched eggs compared with the control, with inclusion of H5P188 having the greatest effects. In conclusion, supplementation of semen extender with H5P188 increases post-thawing quality and fertility of rooster sperm, being a safe and effective method for the poultry industry.

Antioxidant enrichment of rooster semen extenders - A systematic review

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the potential benefits of antioxidant enrichment of semen extenders. These substances are used to combat oxidative stress during processing and conservation of rooster semen. A literature search was performed in June 2020 using the keywords rooster AND (semen OR spermatozoa OR sperm OR ejaculate OR ejaculation). This report followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. The PICO (population intervention comparison outcome) question was defined to compare roosters (Population) which had added antioxidants in the semen (Intervention) compared to the no-antioxidant group (Control); the outcome was semen quality (Outcome). Only articles investigating rooster cooled or frozen enriched semen with antioxidant extenders (Gallus Gallus domesticus) were selected by reading the title and abstract, totalizing 38 articles. After full text reading, we found that only 13 studies carried out sperm characteristics and fertility assays. To assess article quality, 15 items related to rooster breeding conditions, seminal collection methodology, and analyzed variables (seminal characteristics and fertility test) were established. There were positive effects of antioxidants on the preservation of seminal characteristics (motility, viability, membrane integrity, antioxidant activity, and lipid peroxidation) and on semen fertility after the conservation process. We conclude that the antioxidants reduce the oxidative stress and improve fertilizing capacity. The most used substances for cooled semen are glutathione, CoQ10, and l-carnitine; whereas for frozen semen, resveratrol, lycopene, and quercitin are most frequently used.

In vitro ameliorative effects of ellagic acid on vitality, motility and DNA quality in human spermatozoa

Oxidative stress (OS) plays a significant role in the etiology of male infertility, resulting in the impairment of male reproduction. This condition, characterized by an imbalance in the levels of oxidizing and antioxidant species in the seminal fluid, has a harmful impact on sperm functions and DNA integrity. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-genotoxic action of ellagic acid, a polyphenolic molecule of natural origin having a powerful antigenotoxic, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative role. An OS condition was induced in vitro by incubating normozoospermic human semen samples in benzene for 45, 60 and 90 min. DNA integrity was evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay, RAPD-PCR was performed to calculate the genome template stability, while the percentage of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was assessed by the 2', 7'-dichlorofluorescein assay. Our results showed that ellagic acid has a consistent protective effect on DNA integrity, as well as on sperm vitality and motility, by counteracting generation of intracellular ROS. The results of this study suggest ellagic acid as a suitable molecule to protect sperm DNA from oxidative stress, with a potentially significant translational impact on the management of the male infertility.

Effect of crocin and naringenin supplementation in cryopreservation medium on post-thaw rooster sperm quality and expression of apoptosis associated genes

The aim of our study was to examine the effects of crocin (0.5 (C0.5), 1 (C1) and 1.5 (C1.5) mM) and naringenin (50 (N50), 100 (N100) and 150 (N150) μM) in cryopreservation extender for freezing rooster semen. Sperm motility, viability, abnormalities, membrane functionality, active mitochondria, apoptosis status, lipid peroxidation (LP), GPX, SOD, TAC, the mRNA expression of pro-apoptotic (CASPASE 3) and anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) genes, fertile eggs, hatched eggs and hatching rate were investigated following freeze-thawing. C1 and N100 resulted in higher (P < 0.05) total motility and progressive motility in comparison to the control group. The C1 and N100 groups improved viability, membrane functionality and reduced lipid peroxidation. We found higher values for active mitochondria with C1 and N100 compared to control group. The C1 and N100 groups showed lower percentages of early apoptosis when compared with control group. Also, C1 and N100 had higher TAC, compared to the control group. The mRNA expressions of BCL-2 in the C1 and N100 groups were significantly higher than that of other treatments. The expression of CASPASES 3 was significantly reduced in C1 and N100 group (P < 0.05) when compared to control group. Significantly higher percentages of fertile eggs, hatched eggs and hatching rate were observed in C1 and N100 compared to the control group. In conclusion, crocin at 1 mM and naringenin at 100 μM seem to improve the post-thawing rooster semen quality, fertility and could protect the sperm by reducing the pro-apoptotic (CASPASE 3) and increasing anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) genes.

Does alpha-lipoic acid-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers improve post-thawed sperm quality and ameliorate apoptosis-related genes of rooster sperm?

Oxidative stress could be prevented by antioxidant-loaded nanoparticles. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of 10 (A10), 20 (A20), 30 (A30), 40 (A40), and 50 (A50) μM alpha-lipoic acid and alpha-lipoic acid nanostructured lipid carriers (ALN) at 10 (ALN10), 20 (ALN20), 30 (ALN30), 40 (ALN40), and 50 (ALN50) μM on post-thawed sperm quality, fertility, and apoptosis-related genes of rooster sperm. The extender supplemented with ALN30 led to higher total and progressive motility, straight-line velocity, and linearity in comparison to the control group. The ALN30 resulted in higher percentage of mitochondria activity and glutathione peroxidase level compared with control (P < 0.05). The extender supplemented with ALN30 led to lower percentage of apoptotic sperm, when compared with the control. CASPASE 3 expression in ALN30 was lower (P < 0.05) than the other groups. The results showed that BCL-2 mRNA expression of sperm was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in ALN30 compared with the other groups (P < 0.05). Higher percentages of fertility and hatchability rates were observed in ALN30 group. The results indicate that ALN30 could be regarded as a novel potential cryoprotectant for the cryopreservation of rooster semen. Therefore, nanostructured lipid carriers improve not only the active compound (such as alpha-lipoic acid) of biomedical applicability but also the potential for industrial application in sperm cryopreservation.

Poloxamer 188 exerts a cryoprotective effect on rooster sperm and allows decreasing glycerol concentration in the freezing extender

Glycerol is the most widely used cryoprotectant for rooster sperm because it declines the mechanical damage to sperm during the freezing process. Despite its high molecular weight and viscosity, which may be cytotoxic, glycerol can cause damage to cells during the cryopreservation process, resulting in less fertility. Poloxamer 188 (P188) is an embryo cryopreservation supplement effective in many species and also for cell lines and plant cells. We tested the suitability of P188 in the cryopreservation of rooster sperm, considering post-thawing motility, abnormalities, membrane functionality (hypo-osmotic swelling test), mitochondrial activity, viability, apoptosis status, reactive oxygen species production, and ATP content after thawing and the fertility and hatchability after AI. We carried out a factorial experiment with glycerol concentrations of 2% glycerol (G2) and 8% glycerol (G8) and P188 concentrations of 0% (P0), 0.1% (P0.1), 0.5% (P0.5), and 1% (P1) as fixed effects, with replicate (seven) as a random effect. Interactions between glycerol and P188 were found, with G2P1 yielding higher quality and fertility. G8P0.5 yielded better in most parameters, however, not reaching G2P1. G2P1 showed significantly higher results for total and progressive motility, kinetic parameters (average path velocity, straight-line velocity, and linearity), membrane functionality, viability, mitochondrial activity, and ATP content and lower apoptosis, dead sperm, and reactive oxygen species production. G2P1 resulted in the highest percentages of fertilized and hatched eggs, with no effects in the hatched eggs ratio. Interestingly, G2 was less efficient in many parameters than G8 when combined with P0 and P0.1, being equivalent to G8 with P0.5 and superior to any G8 treatment as G2P1. In conclusion, P188 could improve rooster semen cryopreservation and allow reduction of glycerol in extenders, with a consequent impact in the poultry industry.

Exosomes derived from HEK293T cells interact in an efficient and noninvasive manner with mammalian sperm in vitro

Aim: To investigate exosomes as a noninvasive delivery tool for mammalian sperm. Materials & Methods: Exosomes were isolated from HEK293T cells and co-incubated with boar sperm in vitro. Results: Internalized exosomes were detected within 10 min of co-incubation. Computer-assisted sperm analysis and flow cytometry demonstrated that even after 5-h of exposure to exosomes, there were no significant deleterious effects with regard to sperm motility, viability, membrane integrity and mitochondrial membrane potential (p > 0.05), thus indicating that exosomes did not interfere with basic sperm function. Conclusion: HEK293T-derived exosomes interacted with boar sperm without affecting sperm function. Exosomes represent a versatile and promising research tool for studying sperm biology and provide new options for the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.

Comparative transcriptome analysis digs out genes related to antifreeze between fresh and frozen-thawed rooster sperm

The objective of this study was to investigate differences in mRNA expression between fresh and frozen–thawed sperm in roosters. In trial 1, gene expression profiles were measured using microarray with Affymetrix GeneChip Chicken Genome Arrays. The results showed that 2,115 genes were differentially expressed between the 2 groups. Among these genes, 2,086 were significantly downregulated and 29 were significantly upregulated in the frozen–thawed sperm group. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis showed that more than 1,000 differentially expressed genes (DEG) of all significantly regulated genes were involved in GO terms including biological processes, molecular function, and cellular component. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that DEG were significantly (P < 0.05) enriched on ribosome, oxidative phosphorylation, proteasome, cell cycle, oocyte meiosis, and spliceosome pathways. In trial 2, ejaculated semen was collected from 18 roosters and divided into 5 recombinant HSP90 protein–supplemented groups (0.01, 0.1, 0.5, 1, or 2 μg/mL) and one control group with no recombinant HSP90 protein supplementation to evaluate the effect of recombinant HSP90 protein in the extender on post-thaw quality of rooster semen. The results showed that post-thaw sperm viability and motility was significantly improved (P < 0.05) in the extender containing 0.5 and 1 μg/mL of recombinant HSP90 protein compared with the control. Our preliminary results will provide a valuable basis for understanding the potential molecular mechanisms of cryodamage in frozen–thawed sperm and theoretical guidance to improve the fertility of frozen–thawed chicken sperm.

Effect of astaxanthin nanoparticles in protecting the post-thawing quality of rooster sperm challenged by cadmium administration

The protective role of astaxanthin nanoparticles (Ast NPs, 25 mg/kg p.o) against cadmium (Cd, 1 mg/100 g b.w. SC), a known inductor of lipid peroxidation and changes in the antioxidant defense system in the Ross 308 breeder roosters sperm, was examined. Sperm motility (computer-assisted sperm motility analysis), membrane integrity (hypoosmotic swelling test), viability, total abnormality, and enzymatic parameters were assessed after thawing. The testis/body weight (mg/kg) ratio and HE staining results of testis were also performed. The obtained results showed that Cd induced detrimental effects on testis and sperm, while Cd treated by Ast NPs (Cd Ast) diminished this change compared to the Cd group. Cd-treated group resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) lowest total (37.29 ± 2.46) and progressive (5.84 ± 0.47) motility and decreased antioxidant enzyme activity (CAT, TAC, and GPx), as well as producing a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in testis weight (mg) compared to the control group. Treatment with Ast NPs (Ast NPs + Cd) had reversed Cd-induced changes in the antioxidant defense system and significantly prevented Cd-induced testis damage. In conclusion, the results of our work suggest that Ast NPs at 25 mg/kg act as a potent antioxidant in protecting rooster testes against oxidative stress induced by Cd.

Does fennel extract ameliorate oxidative stress frozen-thawed ram sperm?

The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of ram semen after cryopreservation with different levels of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) extract (0 (F0), 5 (F5), 10 (F10) and 15 (F15) mg/L) and sperm concentrations (200 (C200) and 400 (C400) × 10⁶ sperm/mL) in a soy lecithin (SL)-based extender. Twenty ejaculates were collected from four ghezel rams and diluted with eight sperm concentrations/fennel combinations: F0C200, F5C200, F10C200, F15C200, F0C400, F5C400, F10C400 and F15C400. Sperm motility, abnormality, plasma membrane, viability, mitochondrial activity, lipid peroxidation (LPO), mitochondrial activity and apoptotic changes were evaluated after freeze-thawing process. It was observed that F10C400 significantly improved total and progressive motility, VSL, membrane integrity of post-thawed ram sperm. MDA level was lower in F5C200 and F10C400 compared to other treatments. The higher percentage of live sperm and the lower percentage of apoptotic sperm were obtained in F10C200 compared to F0C200, F5C200 F15C400, F0C400, F5C400 and F15C400. Extender F10C200 resulted in the highest mitochondria activity compared to the rest of the extenders except F10C400. We conclude that a combination of 10 mg/mL fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) extract and sperm concentration of 200 × 10⁶ sperm/mL can improve the ram semen quality cryopreserved in a soybean lecithin based extender.