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Hassan MAA, Sayed RKA, Abdelsabour-Khalaf M, Abd-Elhafez EA, Anel-Lopez L, Riesco MF, Ortega-Ferrusola C, Montes-Garrido R, Neila-Montero M, Anel L, Alvarez M. Morphological and ultrasonographic characterization of the three zones of supratesticular region of testicular artery in Assaf rams. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8334. [PMID: 35585142 PMCID: PMC9117313 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12243-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
To fully understand the histological, morphometrical and heamodynamic variations of different supratesticular artery regions, 20 mature and healthy Assaf rams were examined through ultrasound and morphological studies. The testicular artery images of the spermatic cord as shown by B-mode analysis indicated a tortuous pattern along its course toward the testis, although it tends to be less tortuous close to the inguinal ring. Doppler velocimetric values showed a progressive decline in flow velocity, in addition to pulsatility and vessel resistivity when entering the testis, where there were significant differences in the Doppler indices and velocities among the different regions. The peak systolic velocity, pulsatility index and resistive index were higher in the proximal supratesticular artery region, followed by middle and distal ones, while the end diastolic velocity was higher in the distal supratesticular region. The total arterial blood flow and total arterial blood flow rate reported a progressive and significant increase along the testicular cord until entering the testis. Histological examination revealed presence of vasa vasorum in the tunica adventitia, with their diameter is higher in the proximal supratesticular zone than middle and distal ones. Morphometrically, the thickness of the supratesticular artery wall showed a significant decline downward toward the testis; meanwhile, the outer arterial diameter and inner luminal diameter displayed a significant increase distally. The expression of alpha smooth muscle actin and vimentin was higher in the tunica media of the proximal supratesticular artery zone than in middle and distal ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A A Hassan
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt
| | - Ramy K A Sayed
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Abdelsabour-Khalaf
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt
| | - Enas A Abd-Elhafez
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt
| | - L Anel-Lopez
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain. .,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, 24071, León, Spain.
| | - M F Riesco
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain.,Cellular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology, University of León, 24071, León, Spain
| | - C Ortega-Ferrusola
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - R Montes-Garrido
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, 24071, León, Spain
| | - M Neila-Montero
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, 24071, León, Spain
| | - L Anel
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, 24071, León, Spain
| | - M Alvarez
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery and Anatomy, University of León, 24071, León, Spain
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Álvarez-Rodriguez M, Álvarez M, Anel-López L, Guerra C, Chamorro CA, Anel L, de Paz P, Martínez-Pastor F. Effect of length of time post-mortem on quality and freezing capacity of Cantabric chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica parva) epididymal spermatozoa. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 198:184-192. [PMID: 30301620 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Genome Resource Banks are keystones in the ex-situ conservation of wild species. Post-mortem (PM) collection of epididymal spermatozoa is an opportunistic and valuable source of germplasm, the time from the death of the animal limits its use. Seeking to improve germplasm preservation strategies for the chamois (Rupicapra sp.), the effect of PM time on epididymal sperm quality and freezability was studied using the Cantabrian chamois. Samples were classified according to PM collection time, up to 216 h (refrigerated), and cryopreserved (Tris-citric acid-fructose, 430 mOsm/kg, 15% egg yolk, 8% glycerol; freezing at -20 °C/min). Sperm quality was assessed after recovery and post-thawing (motility by CASA, HOS test, abnormal forms, cytoplasmic droplets, and viability and acrosomal damage by flow cytometry). The sperm mass pH and osmolality showed a positive correlation with time. Total sperm motility dropped after 2 days PM, with progressivity and sperm velocities remained similar up to 3 days PM. Sperm freezability was acceptable, with the post-thawing HOST, motility, progressivity, VAP, VCL, VSL and BCF negatively correlating with PM time. Overall, chamois epidydimal samples were not adequate for preservation after 6 days PM. Freezability capacity could make these spermatozoa suitable for specific ART even if kept refrigerated for several days PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Álvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), BKH, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Álvarez
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, Universidad de León, León, Spain; INDEGSAL, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - L Anel-López
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, Universidad de León, León, Spain; INDEGSAL, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - C Guerra
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - C A Chamorro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, Universidad de León, León, Spain; INDEGSAL, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - L Anel
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy, Universidad de León, León, Spain; INDEGSAL, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - P de Paz
- INDEGSAL, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; Department of Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), Universidad de León, Spain
| | - F Martínez-Pastor
- INDEGSAL, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; Department of Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), Universidad de León, Spain.
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Varela E, Rey J, Plaza E, Muñoz de Propios P, Ortiz-Rodríguez JM, Álvarez M, Anel-López L, Anel L, De Paz P, Gil MC, Morrell JM, Ortega-Ferrusola C. How does the microbial load affect the quality of equine cool-stored semen? Theriogenology 2018; 114:212-220. [PMID: 29653389 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Contaminating bacteria present in stallion ejaculates may compromise sperm quality during storage. Different procedures have been used to reduce the load of microorganisms in semen and avoid bacterial growth during storage. The aims of this study were: 1) to evaluate different techniques to eliminate bacteria in semen 2) to study the relationship between total microflora load (TML) and ROS production; and 3) to determine if TML affects the functionality of cool-stored sperm. Ejaculates from 11 stallions were split and processed in 3 ways: A. extended semen; B. conventional centrifuged semen, and C. Single layer centrifugation through Androcoll-E (SLC). All samples were preserved in INRA 96 at 5 °C for 72 h. Aliquots from native semen and from different treatments were taken for bacteriological analysis at T0, T24, T48 and T72h of storage and Total microbial load (TML: CFU (colony-forming units/ml) was calculated. The ROS production (dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate for H2O2, dihydroethidium for superoxide anion and CellROX deep red for total ROS), viability (YO-PRO-1-Ethidium) and lipid peroxidation (BODIPY-C11) were assessed by flow cytometry, and motility by CASA. The bacteria isolated were Corynebacterium spp, Arcanobacterium spp, Bacillus spp, Dermobacter, Staphylococcus spp, Streptococcus spp, Penicilium spp. TML of semen showed correlations with live sperm (r: -0.771), dead sperm (r: 0.580), H2O2 production (r: 0.740), and total ROS production (CellROX (+)) (r: -0.607), Total motility (r: 0.587), Progressive motility (r: -0.566), VCL (r: -0.664), VSL (r: -0,569), VAP (r: -0.534) (p ≤ 0.05). SLC removed 99.34% of the microbial load, which was assicated with a significanlty reduced H2O2 production (p ≤ 0.05). However, only samples treated with Androcoll-E had a higher total ROS production (CellROX +) (p ≤ 0.05). These results suggest that CellROX stain probably identifies superoxide production rather than H2O2 and this higher superoxide production may reflect an intense sperm functionality. The bacterial load increased the production of H2O2 in cool-stored semen which was associated with lower tolerance to refrigeration. SLC was the sperm processing technique that was most efficient at removing bacteria, reducing H2O2 production and selecting the most functional sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Varela
- Unit of Infection Diseases, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - J Rey
- Unit of Infection Diseases, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - E Plaza
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | | | - J M Ortiz-Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - M Álvarez
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain
| | - L Anel-López
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain
| | - L Anel
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain
| | - P De Paz
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain
| | - M C Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - J M Morrell
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, SLU, Uppsala, Sweden
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Ortega Ferrusola C, Anel-López L, Ortiz-Rodriguez JM, Martin Muñoz P, Alvarez M, de Paz P, Masot J, Redondo E, Balao da Silva C, Morrell JM, Rodriguez Martinez H, Tapia JA, Gil MC, Anel L, Peña FJ. Stallion spermatozoa surviving freezing and thawing experience membrane depolarization and increased intracellular Na . Andrology 2017; 5:1174-1182. [PMID: 28973824 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In order to gain insight of the modifications that freezing and thawing cause to the surviving population of spermatozoa, changes in the potential of the plasma membrane (Em) and intracellular Na+ content of stallion spermatozoa were investigated using flow cytometry. Moreover, caspase 3 activity was also investigated and the functionality of the Na+ -K+ ATPase pump was investigated before and after freezing and thawing. Cryopreservation caused a significant (p < 0.001) increase in the subpopulation of spermatozoa with depolarized sperm membranes, concomitantly with an increase (p < 0.05) in intracellular Na+ . These changes occurred in relation to activation of caspase 3 (p < 0.001). Cryopreservation reduced the activity of the Na-K+ pump and inhibition of the Na+ -K+ ATPase pump with ouabain-induced caspase 3 activation. It is concluded that inactivation of Na+ -K+ ATPase occurs during cryopreservation, an inhibition that could play a role explaining the accelerated senescence of the surviving population of spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ortega Ferrusola
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of León, León, Spain
| | - L Anel-López
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of León, León, Spain
| | - J M Ortiz-Rodriguez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - P Martin Muñoz
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - M Alvarez
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of León, León, Spain
| | - P de Paz
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of León, León, Spain
| | - J Masot
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - E Redondo
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - C Balao da Silva
- Portalagre Polytechnic Institute, Superior Agriculture School of Elvas, Elvas, Portugal
| | - J M Morrell
- Division of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - H Rodriguez Martinez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - J A Tapia
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - M C Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - L Anel
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of León, León, Spain
| | - F J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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5
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Martín Muñoz P, Anel-López L, Ortiz-Rodríguez JM, Álvarez M, de Paz P, Balao da Silva C, Rodríguez Martinez H, Gil MC, Anel L, Peña FJ, Ortega Ferrusola C. Redox cycling induces spermptosis and necrosis in stallion spermatozoa while the hydroxyl radical (OH•) only induces spermptosis. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 53:54-67. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P Martín Muñoz
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology; Veterinary Teaching Hospital; University of Extremadura; Cáceres Spain
| | - L Anel-López
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; University of León; León Spain
| | - JM Ortiz-Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology; Veterinary Teaching Hospital; University of Extremadura; Cáceres Spain
| | - M Álvarez
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; University of León; León Spain
| | - P de Paz
- Department of Molecular Biology; University of León; León Spain
| | - C Balao da Silva
- Portalagre Polytechnic Institute; Superior Agriculture School of Elvas; Elvas Portugal
| | - H Rodríguez Martinez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine; Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences; Linköping University; Linköping Sweden
| | - MC Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology; Veterinary Teaching Hospital; University of Extremadura; Cáceres Spain
| | - L Anel
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; University of León; León Spain
| | - FJ Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology; Veterinary Teaching Hospital; University of Extremadura; Cáceres Spain
| | - C Ortega Ferrusola
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; University of León; León Spain
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6
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Ortega-Ferrusola C, Gil MC, Rodríguez-Martínez H, Anel L, Peña FJ, Martín-Muñoz P. Flow cytometry in Spermatology: A bright future ahead. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:921-931. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Ortega-Ferrusola
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; University of León; León Spain
| | - MC Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology; Veterinary Teaching Hospital; University of Extremadura; Cáceres Spain
| | - H Rodríguez-Martínez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine; Faculty of Health Sciences Linköping University; Linköping Sweden
| | - L Anel
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; University of León; León Spain
| | - FJ Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology; Veterinary Teaching Hospital; University of Extremadura; Cáceres Spain
| | - P Martín-Muñoz
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology; Veterinary Teaching Hospital; University of Extremadura; Cáceres Spain
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7
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Anel-López L, Ortega-Ferrusola C, Martínez-Rodríguez C, Álvarez M, Borragán S, Chamorro C, Peña FJ, Anel L, de Paz P. Analysis of seminal plasma from brown bear (Ursus arctos) during the breeding season: Its relationship with testosterone levels. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181776. [PMID: 28771486 PMCID: PMC5542667 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) plays an important role in the motility, viability and maintenance of the fertilizing capacity of mammalian spermatozoa. This study is the first on brown bear (Ursus arctos) SP components, and has two main objectives: 1) to define the SP composition in bear ejaculate and 2) to identify variations in SP composition in relation to high and low levels of testosterone in serum during the breeding season. Forty-eight sperm samples from 30 sexually mature male brown bears (Ursus arctos) were obtained by electroejaculation, and their serum testosterone levels were assessed to sort the animals into 2 groups (high and low testosterone levels, threshold 5 ng/dl). The biochemical and protein compositions of the SP samples were assessed, and sperm motility was analyzed. We found that lactate dehydrogenase was significantly higher in the low-serum-testosterone samples, while concentrations of lipase and Mg+ values were significantly higher in the high-serum-testosterone samples. In contrast, sperm motility did not significantly differ (P>0.05) between the testosterone level groups (total motility: 74.42.8% in the high-level group vs. 77.1±4.7% in the low-level group). A reference digital model was constructed since there is no information for this wild species. To do this, all gel images were added in a binary multidimensional image and thirty-three spots were identified as the most-repeated spots. An analysis of these proteins was done by qualitative equivalency (isoelectric point and molecular weight) with published data for a bull. SP protein composition was compared between bears with high and low serum testosterone, and three proteins (binder of sperm and two enzymes not identified in the reference bull) showed significant (P<0.05) quantitative differences. We conclude that male bears with high or low serum testosterone levels differs only in some properties of their SP, differences in enzyme LDIP2, energy source LACT2, one protein (similar to BSP1) and Mg ion were identified between these two groups. These data may inform the application of SP to improve bear semen extenders.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Anel-López
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, Spain
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - C. Ortega-Ferrusola
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, Spain
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
| | - C. Martínez-Rodríguez
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
- Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, León, Spain
| | - M. Álvarez
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, Spain
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
| | | | - C. Chamorro
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
- Veterinary Anatomy, University of León, León, Spain
| | - F. J. Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - L. Anel
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, Spain
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
| | - P. de Paz
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
- Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, León, Spain
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8
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Anel-Lopez L, Ortega-Ferrusola C, Álvarez M, Borragán S, Chamorro C, Peña FJ, Morrell J, Anel L, de Paz P. Improving sperm banking efficiency in endangered species through the use of a sperm selection method in brown bear (Ursus arctos) thawed sperm. BMC Vet Res 2017. [PMID: 28651537 PMCID: PMC5485503 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-017-1124-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sperm selection methods such as Single Layer Centrifugation (SLC) have been demonstrated to be a useful tool to improve the quality of sperm samples and therefore to increase the efficiency of other artificial reproductive techniques in several species. This procedure could help to improve the quality of genetic resource banks, which is essential for endangered species. In contrast, these sperm selection methods are optimized and focused on farm animals, where the recovery task is not as important as in endangered species because of their higher sperm availability. The aim of this study was to evaluate two centrifugation methods (300 x g/20 min and 600 x g/10 min) and three concentrations of SLC media (Androcoll-Bear −80, 65 and 50%) to optimise the procedure in order to recover as many sperm with the highest quality as possible. Sperm morphology could be important in the hydrodynamic relationship between the cell and centrifugation medium and thus the effect of sperm head morphometry on sperm yield and its hydrodynamic relationship were studied. Results The samples selected with Androcoll-Bear 65% showed a very good yield (53.1 ± 2.9) although the yield from Androcoll-Bear 80% was lower (19.3 ± 3.3). The latter showed higher values of motility than the control immediately after post-thawing selection. However, both concentrations of colloid (65 and 80%) showed higher values of viable sperm and viable sperm with intact acrosome than the control. After an incubation of 2 h at 37 °C, the samples from Androcoll-Bear 80% had higher kinematics and proportion of viable sperm with intact acrosome. In the morphometric analysis, the sperm selected by the Androcoll-Bear 80% showed a head with a bigger area which was more elongated than the sperm from other treatments. Conclusions We conclude that sperm selection with Androcoll-Bear at either 65% or 80% is a suitable technique that allows a sperm population with better quality than the initial sample to be obtained. We recommend the use of Androcoll-Bear 65% since the yield is better than Androcoll-Bear 80%. Our findings pave the way for further research on application of sperm selection techniques to sperm banking in the brown bear. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12917-017-1124-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Anel-Lopez
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain. .,ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain.
| | - C Ortega-Ferrusola
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain.,ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain
| | - M Álvarez
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain.,ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain
| | | | - C Chamorro
- Veterinary Anatomy, University of Leon, 24071, León, Spain
| | - F J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - J Morrell
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Clinical Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - L Anel
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain.,ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain
| | - P de Paz
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071, León, Spain.,Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, León, Spain
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9
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Ortega-Ferrusola C, Anel-López L, Martín-Muñoz P, Ortíz-Rodríguez JM, Gil MC, Alvarez M, de Paz P, Ezquerra LJ, Masot AJ, Redondo E, Anel L, Peña FJ. Computational flow cytometry reveals that cryopreservation induces spermptosis but subpopulations of spermatozoa may experience capacitation-like changes. Reproduction 2016; 153:293-304. [PMID: 27965398 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The reduced lifespan of cryopreserved spermatozoa in the mare reproductive tract has been attributed to both capacitative and apoptotic changes. However, there is a lack of studies investigating both phenomena simultaneously. In order to improve our knowledge in this particular point, we studied in raw and frozen-thawed samples apoptotic and capacitative markers using a wide battery of test based in flow cytometry. Apoptotic markers evaluated were caspase 3 activity, externalization of phosphatidylserine (PS), and mitochondrial membrane potential. Markers of changes resembling capacitation were membrane fluidity, tyrosine phosphorylation, and intracellular sodium. Conventional and computational flow cytometry using nonlinear dimensionally reduction techniques (t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE)) and automatic classification of cellular expression by nonlinear stochastic embedding (ACCENSE) were used. Most of the changes induced by cryopreservation were apoptotic, with increase in caspase 3 activation (P < 0.01), PS translocation to the outer membrane (P < 0.001), loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (P < 0.05), and increase in intracellular Na+ (P < 0.01). Average values of markers of capacitative changes were not affected by cryopreservation; however, the analysis of the phenotype of individual spermatozoa using computational flow cytometry revealed the presence of subpopulations of spermatozoa experiencing capacitative changes. For the first time advanced computational techniques were applied to the analysis of spermatozoa, and these techniques were able to disclose relevant information of the ejaculate that remained hidden using conventional flow cytometry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - L Anel-López
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery
| | - P Martín-Muñoz
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine SpermatologyVeterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - J M Ortíz-Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine SpermatologyVeterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - M C Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine SpermatologyVeterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - M Alvarez
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery
| | - P de Paz
- Department of Molecular BiologyUniversity of León, León, Spain
| | - L J Ezquerra
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine SpermatologyVeterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - A J Masot
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine SpermatologyVeterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - E Redondo
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine SpermatologyVeterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - L Anel
- Reproduction and Obstetrics Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery
| | - F J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine SpermatologyVeterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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Ortega-Ferrusola C, Ortiz-Rodríguez J, Rodríguez-Medina P, Martin-Muñoz P, Álvarez M, Peña F, Anel L. (Pulse) Doppler ultrasound as a predictive tool for semen quality of stallions. J Equine Vet Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2016.06.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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11
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Lopez-Urueña E, Anel-López L, Borragan S, Ortega Ferrusola C, Manrique P, de Paz P, Anel L, Alvarez M. The use of gelatine in long-term storage (up to 48 hr) at 5°C preserves the pre-freezing and post-thawing quality of brown bear sperm. Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 51:700-7. [PMID: 27418181 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Sedimentation of spermatozoa occurs during long-term liquid storage and this may produce deleterious changes. Our aim was to apply gelatine supplementation during long-term pre-freezing storage of bear sperm, applying final dilution and 6% glycerol at room temperature and cool in straws. We tested four models of sperm storage using a 1:1 dilution in TTF-ULE-Bear extender (TesT-fructose-egg yolk-glycerol 6%): (i) second 1:1 dilution at room temperature (RT), cooling at 5°C in a tube and final dilution (100 × 10(6) sperm ml(-1) ) (Standard); (ii) final dilution at RT and cooling in a tube (FD-Tube); (iii) final dilution at RT and cooling in 0.25 ml plastic straw (FD-Straw); and (iv) final dilution at RT in extender supplemented with 1.5% gelatine (Gelatine) and cooling in a 0.25 ml plastic straw. A Standard sample was stored at 5°C for 1 hr (Control); the rest of the samples (Standard, FD-Tube, FD-Straw, Gelatine) were stored for 24 or 48 hrs before freezing (100 × 10(6) sperm ml(-1) , glycerol 6%). The quality of the samples was assessed for motility by CASA, and viability (SYBR-14/propidium iodide-PI-; VIAB), acrosomal status (PNA-FITC/PI; iACR) and apoptotic status (YO-PRO-1/PI; YOPRO-) by flow cytometry. At pre-freezing, after 48 hr, Gelatine showed significantly higher viability (for VIAB and YOPRO-) and progressiveness (PM, LIN and STR). At 48 hr, Gelatine showed similar YOPRO-, iACR, LIN, STR and ALH respect to Control. At both 24 and 48 h post-thawing, Gelatine sample had similar scores for YOPRO-, iACR, LIN, STR, WOB and VIAB (only 24 hr) when compared with Control, and lower for TM, PM, rapidPM, VAP and ALH. No differences were found among others experimental groups with respect to Control. In conclusion, gelatine could be a suitable alternative to preserve the viability and progressive motility of brown bear ejaculates during long-term pre-freezing storage at 5°C.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Lopez-Urueña
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain.,Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain
| | | | | | | | - P Manrique
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
| | - P de Paz
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain. .,Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, León, Spain.
| | - L Anel
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain.,Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain
| | - M Alvarez
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain.,Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain
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Álvarez-Rodríguez M, Álvarez M, Anel-López L, López-Urueña E, Manrique P, Borragán S, Morrell J, de Paz P, Anel L. Effect of colloid (Androcoll-Bear, Percoll, and PureSperm) selection on the freezability of brown bear (Ursus arctos) sperm. Theriogenology 2016; 85:1097-105. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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13
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López-Urueña E, Alvarez M, Gomes-Alves S, Anel-López L, Martínez-Rodríguez C, Manrique P, Borragan S, Anel L, de Paz P. Optimization of conditions for long-term prefreezing storage of brown bear sperm before cryopreservation. Theriogenology 2015; 84:1161-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Gomes-Alves S, Alvarez M, Nicolas M, Martínez-Rodríguez C, Borragán S, Chamorro CA, Anel L, de Paz P. Salvaging urospermic ejaculates from brown bear (Ursus arctos). Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 150:148-57. [PMID: 25278437 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Revised: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to reverse the osmotic stress of sperm in urine contaminated bear ejaculates that were obtained by electroejaculation using pre-freezing washing or density gradient centrifugation isolation. In Experiment 1, ejaculates were divided into six aliquots, five were diluted in each washing extender: 200, 300, 400, 500 and 700 mOsm/kg (prepared from a Tes-Tris-Fructose base, adding water or fructose as corresponds), at a 1:2 ratio (raw semen: washing solution, v/v); and the other aliquot was handled without washing (Control group). Samples were centrifuged at 600 × g for 6 min prior to freezing. In Experiment 2, ejaculates were divided into two aliquots: one was diluted 1:1 with TCG (Tris-Citric acid-Glucose) and centrifuged at 600 × g for 6 min (Centrifugation Control; C-Control); the other was treated with PureSperm density gradient column. After treatments, samples were cryopreserved. Sperm motility, viability (SYBR-14/propidium iodide (PI)) and acrosomal status (peanut agglutinin-fluorescein isothiocyanate (PNA-FITC)/PI) were analyzed before and after freezing. Ejaculates with an initial osmolality of less than 120 mOsm/kg treated with pre-freezing washing, and the Control sample had greater pre-freezing sperm motility than the raw ejaculate, but sperm viability was not different among these groups. The samples washed with 700 mOsm/kg solutions had the least pre-freezing viability. In the post-thawing evaluation, pre-freezing washing treatments did not provide any improvement in comparison with the Control sample, and treatment with 700 mOsm/kg extender had deleterious effects in all urospermic samples. PureSperm density gradient centrifugation applied to urospermic raw semen was suitable for improving sperm motility and viability of pre-freezing samples and the selected spermatozoa had greater freezing capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gomes-Alves
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - M Alvarez
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - M Nicolas
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - C Martínez-Rodríguez
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Cell Biology, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | | | - C A Chamorro
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - L Anel
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - P de Paz
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Cell Biology, University of León, 24071 León, Spain.
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15
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López-Urueña E, Alvarez M, Gomes-Alves S, Manrique P, Anel-López L, Chamorro CA, Borragan S, de Paz P, Anel L. Alternative procedures for the cryopreservation of brown bear ejaculates depending on the flexibility of the "in cooling" period (5°C). Cryobiology 2014; 69:434-41. [PMID: 25315224 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2014.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The adaptability of cryopreservation protocols for brown bear spermatozoa collected under field conditions and frozen in a nearby laboratory (transported for a few hours) or shipped to a reference laboratory for sex sorting (transported for a few days) was evaluated. Forty-nine electroejaculates from 15 mature brown bears were extended to 100×10(6) sperm/mL in a TES-Tris-Fructose based extender and cryopreserved (-20°C/min to -100°C and stored at -196°C). After thawing, the quality of the seminal samples was assessed for total (TM), progressive (PM) motility and kinetic parameters - by CASA -, and viability (VIAB), viable and non-apoptotic status (YOPRO-), high membrane mitochondrial potential (MIT) and intact acrosomes (iACR) - by flow cytometry -. In Experiment 1, we assessed different storage times (0, 0.5, 1 - control -, 4-5, 7-8 and 11-12 h) at 5°C from final dilution to freezing. After thawing, non-equilibrated samples (0 h) showed lower values of iACR, TM and PM. No significant differences were found for the different periods of equilibration tested. In Experiment 2, we evaluated three long-term storage times (24, 48 and 72 h) at 5°C before freezing using storage for 1h as control. The post-thawing quality of brown bear spermatozoa declined markedly after 48-72 h of pre-freezing. In conclusion, our findings suggest the possibility of extending the pre-freezing cooling period up to 24h post-collection without freezing. This knowledge should enable the adaptation of the freezing protocols for when a special handling conditions are required such as the shipment of seminal samples to technological centers for the pre-freezing application of enhancer spermatic biotechnologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- E López-Urueña
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - M Alvarez
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - S Gomes-Alves
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - P Manrique
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - L Anel-López
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Campus Universitario s. n., 02071 Albacete, Spain
| | - C A Chamorro
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Veterinary Anatomy, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
| | | | - P de Paz
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, 24071 León, Spain.
| | - L Anel
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, 24071 León, Spain; Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
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Gomes-Alves S, Alvarez M, Nicolas M, Lopez -Urueña E, Martínez-Rodríguez C, Borragan S, de Paz P, Anel L. Use of commercial extenders and alternatives to prevent sperm agglutination for cryopreservation of brown bear semen. Theriogenology 2014; 82:469-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 05/09/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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17
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López-Urueña E, Alvarez M, Gomes-Alves S, Martínez-Rodríguez C, Borragan S, Anel-López L, de Paz P, Anel L. Tolerance of brown bear spermatozoa to conditions of pre-freezing cooling rate and equilibration time. Theriogenology 2014; 81:1229-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Revised: 02/06/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Alvarez-Rodríguez M, Alvarez M, Borragan S, Martinez-Pastor F, Holt W, Fazeli A, de Paz P, Anel L. The addition of heat shock protein HSPA8 to cryoprotective media improves the survival of brown bear (Ursus arctos) spermatozoa during chilling and after cryopreservation. Theriogenology 2013; 79:541-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 11/01/2012] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Alvarez-Rodríguez M, Alvarez M, Anel-López L, Martínez-Rodríguez C, Martínez-Pastor F, Borragan S, Anel L, de Paz P. The antioxidant effects of soybean lecithin- or low-density lipoprotein-based extenders for the cryopreservation of brown-bear (Ursus arctos) spermatozoa. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 25:1185-93. [PMID: 23312130 DOI: 10.1071/rd12181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2012] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Egg yolk low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and soybean lecithin were evaluated as replacements for egg yolk in extenders used for the cryopreservation of brown-bear spermatozoa. The motility, viability and acrosomal status of post-thawed spermatozoa were analysed, and an egg-yolk extender was used as a control. The total antioxidant capacity of these extenders was tested. Soybean lecithin showed an effect that was dependent on the soybean concentration (2%, 3.5% and 5%) and source (Type A: 24% L-α-phosphatidylcholine, and Type B: 14-23% L-α-phosphatidylcholine). Only semen cryopreserved with 5% Type A soybean exhibited a sperm motility similar to that of semen cryopreserved in egg-yolk-based extender after thawing, although the sperm viability and acrosome status were not as high. Semen frozen in an extender containing LDL (10-15%) exhibited improved sperm viability in comparison with the control, but sperm motility was lower. The LDL-based extender exhibited a higher anti-oxidant activity than the egg-yolk extender and soy lecithin-based extenders. The extenders with higher anti-oxidant activity showed improvements in frozen sperm viability but lower semen motility. These results indicate that soybean lecithin did not have the same protective effect as egg yolk during the freezing of brown-bear spermatozoa but suggest that LDL (10-15%) could be a useful substitute for egg yolk in these extenders.
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Álvarez M, Tamayo-Canul J, Martínez-Rodríguez C, López-Urueña E, Gomes-Alves S, Anel L, Martínez-Pastor F, de Paz P. Specificity of the extender used for freezing ram sperm depends of the spermatozoa source (ejaculate, electroejaculate or epididymis). Anim Reprod Sci 2012; 132:145-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2011] [Revised: 05/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Martínez-Rodríguez C, Alvarez M, Ordás L, Chamorro C, Martinez-Pastor F, Anel L, de Paz P. Evaluation of ram semen quality using polyacrylamide gel instead of cervical mucus in the sperm penetration test. Theriogenology 2012; 77:1575-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2011] [Revised: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 11/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Álvarez M, Chamorro C, Kaabi M, Anel-López L, Boixo J, Anel E, Anel L, de Paz P. Design and “in vivo” evaluation of two adapted catheters for intrauterine transcervical insemination in sheep. Anim Reprod Sci 2012; 131:153-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2011] [Revised: 02/22/2012] [Accepted: 03/02/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Mata-Campuzano M, Alvarez-Rodríguez M, Alvarez M, Anel L, de Paz P, Garde JJ, Martínez-Pastor F. Effect of several antioxidants on thawed ram spermatozoa submitted to 37°C up to four hours. Reprod Domest Anim 2012; 47:907-14. [PMID: 22372742 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2012.01990.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Thawed ram spermatozoa were incubated at 37°C in the presence of dehydroascorbic acid (DHA), TEMPOL (TPL), N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and rutin (RUT), at 0.1 and 1 mm, in order to test their effects on sperm physiology. Cryopreserved spermatozoa from four rams were thawed, pooled, washed and incubated in TALP-Hepes with 1 mm or 0.1 mm of each antioxidant, performing a replicate with induced oxidative stress (Fe(2+) /ascorbate). Motility (CASA), viability and mitochondrial membrane potential (flow cytometry) were analysed at 2 and 4 h. Lipoperoxidation (MDA production), intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA status (TUNEL) were analysed at 4 h. Antioxidants, except DHA 0.1 mm, decreased motility and kinematic parameters, but had little effect on viability or mitochondrial activity. Except 1 mm DHA, the antioxidants reduced ROS at 4 h. Moreover, NAC 1 mm, rutin and TEMPOL reduced ROS and DNA damage in the presence of oxidative stress. N-acetyl-cysteine, rutin 1 mm and TEMPOL reduced lipoperoxidation in the presence of oxidative stress. However, DHA did not affect lipoperoxidation. At 1 mm, DHA increased DNA damage in the absence of oxidative stress. Dehydroascorbic acid effects could arise from spermatozoa having a low capacity for reducing it to ascorbic acid, and it may be tested in the presence of other antioxidants or reducing power. Future research should focus in testing whether the inhibition of motility observed for NAC, rutin and TEMPOL is reversible. These antioxidants might be useful at lower temperatures (refrigerated storage or cryopreservation) when their protective effects could be advantageous.
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Alvarez M, Tamayo-Canul J, Anel E, Boixo JC, Mata-Campuzano M, Martinez-Pastor F, Anel L, de Paz P. Sperm concentration at freezing affects post-thaw quality and fertility of ram semen. Theriogenology 2011; 77:1111-8. [PMID: 22192392 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Revised: 10/03/2011] [Accepted: 10/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We have investigated the effect of sperm concentration in the freezing doses 200, 400, 800, and 1600 × 10(6) mL(-1) on the post-thaw quality and fertility of ram semen. Semen was collected from seven adult Churra rams by artificial vagina during the breeding season. The semen was diluted in an extender (TES-Tris-fructose, 20% egg yolk, and 4% glycerol), to a final concentration of 200, 400, 800, or 1600 × 10(6) mL(-1) and frozen. Doses were analyzed post-thawing for motility (computer-assisted sperm analysis system [CASA]), viability, and acrosomal status (fluorescence probes propidium iodide [PI]/peanut agglutinin conjugated with fluorescein thiocyanate (PNA-FITC), SYBR-14/PI [Invitrogen; Barcelona, Spain] and YO-PRO-1/PI [Invitrogen; Barcelona, Spain]). Total motility and velocity were lower for 1600 × 10(6) mL(-1) doses, while progressive motility and viability were lower both for 800 and 1600 × 10(6) mL(-1). The proportion of viable spermatozoa showing increased membrane permeability (YO-PRO-1+) rose in 800 and 1200 × 10(6) mL(-1). Intrauterine inseminations were performed with the 200, 400, and 800 × 10(6) mL(-1) doses at a fixed sperm number (25 × 10(6) per uterine horn) in synchronized ewes. Fertility (lambing rate) was similar for semen frozen at 200 (57.5%) or 400 × 10(6) mL(-1) (54.4%), whereas it was significantly lower for 800 × 10(6) mL(-1) (45.5%). In conclusion, increasing sperm concentration in cryopreserved semen, at least at 800 × 10(6) mL(-1) and more, adversely affects the postthawing quality and fertility of ram semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Alvarez
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
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Nicolas M, Alvarez M, Borragán S, Martinez-Pastor F, Chamorro CA, Alvarez-Rodriguez M, de Paz P, Anel L. Evaluation of the qualitative and quantitative effectiveness of three media of centrifugation (Maxifreeze, Cushion Fluid Equine, and PureSperm 100) in preparation of fresh or frozen-thawed brown bear spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2011; 77:1119-28. [PMID: 22154477 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2011] [Revised: 09/28/2011] [Accepted: 10/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Centrifugation is a crucial procedure in sperm cryopreservation protocols of brown bear (Ursus arctos), because the semen must be processed to increase sperm concentration and/or clean urine-contaminated samples. The efficacy of three media for centrifugation (Maxifreeze [IMV technologies, L'Aigle, France], Cushion Fluid Equine (Minitübe, Tiefenbach, Germany), and PureSperm [Nidacon, Gothenburg, Sweden]) on the quality of bear spermatozoa was evaluated. In experiment one, two cushioned media used for protecting against mechanical stress during centrifugation were analyzed. In experiment two, a density gradient based on PureSperm was assessed in relation to the maximum retrieval and the quality of fresh spermatozoa, and the freezability of the spermatozoa selected in this density gradient was studied in experiment three. Finally, the selection of frozen-thawed sperm using PureSperm was analyzed in experiment four. Our results indicate that the use of dense isotonic cushion solutions (Maxifreeze, Cushion Fluid Equine) in centrifugation did not improve the quality of recovered spermatozoa compared with standard centrifugation. However, a density gradient prepared with PureSperm improved the quality of spermatozoa in fresh semen and frozen-thawed semen, but the spermatozoa selected from the fresh sample with this density gradient did not show a better resistance to freezing with this density gradient in comparison with the control sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nicolas
- ITRA-ULE, INDEGSAL, University of León, León, Spain
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Tamayo-Canul J, Alvarez M, López-Urueña E, Nicolas M, Martinez-Pastor F, Anel E, Anel L, de Paz P. Undiluted or extended storage of ram epididymal spermatozoa as alternatives to refrigerating the whole epididymes. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 126:76-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2010] [Revised: 04/11/2011] [Accepted: 04/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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de Paz P, Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Nicolas M, Alvarez M, Chamorro CA, Borragán S, Martinez-Pastor F, Anel L. Optimization of Glycerol Concentration and Freezing Rate in the Cryopreservation of Ejaculate From Brown Bear (Ursus arctos). Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 47:105-12. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01808.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Anel L, Alvarez M, Anel E, Martinez-Pastor F, Martinez F, Chamorro C, de Paz P. Evaluation of Three Different Extenders for Use in Emergency Salvaging of Epididymal Spermatozoa from a Cantabric Brown Bear. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 46:e85-90. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2010.01646.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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de Paz P, Esteso MC, Alvarez M, Mata M, Chamorro CA, Anel L. Development of extender based on soybean lecithin for its application in liquid ram semen. Theriogenology 2010; 74:663-71. [PMID: 20537695 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2009] [Revised: 03/16/2010] [Accepted: 03/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The soybean lecithin is used as a phospholipids source for the commercial extenders available for freezing bull semen which allows replacing the traditional membrane protective of animal origin (egg yolk). These extenders have been tested for freezing semen in various livestock species but specific adjustments cannot be made due to trade protection. The aim of the present study was to develop a soybean-based extender analyzing the optimal conditions of preparation, handling, and storage in order to optimize its use in liquid ram semen. Its effect on the quality of liquid ram semen was also studied. Different TES-Tris-Fructose-based extenders were prepared using two soybean types (S20 and S95) differentiated by their lipid composition (complex or simple, respectively). These extenders were made up in two temperatures: 20 degrees C (PT20) or 37 degrees C (PT37); centrifuged and filtered at 20 degrees C and stored at 15 degrees C or 5 degrees C (ST15 and ST05) for several periods (from 6 hours to 7 days). Three different concentrations of soybean (0.5%, 2%, and 3.5%) were evaluated for each extender. The amount and nature of phospholipids present in the extender were evaluated by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method according to the different parameters applied in their preparation. In general, the highest quantity of phospholipids is observed in S20 extender. Centrifugation-filtration process during the extender preparation reduces by 50% the quantity of phospholipids in medium for different experiments. The quantity of phospholipids was not affected significantly by preparation temperature in S20 extender. Storage temperature affects the phospholipids present in the extender (S20 and S95) with minimum values for the storage at 5 degrees C. As for the storage time, both extenders (S20 and S95) showed a stable quantity of phospholipids in the course of the time, for 2 days at 15 degrees C and for 7 days at 5 degrees C. The extender obtained with a higher concentration of soybean (3.5%) showed a higher content of phospholipids under different conditions tested. Finally, sperm motility and viability in new extenders were analyzed. We observed that the sperm quality is not affected by storage temperature for S20 extender. Sperm motility was higher in S20-2% extender and control (UL). Our results suggest that a soybean lecithin extender obtained from S20 soybean at 20 degrees C, centrifuged and filtered, preserve the sperm motility and viability at 15 degrees C and 5 degrees C as an egg-yolk extender.
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Affiliation(s)
- P de Paz
- Cell Biology, University of León, 24071, León, Spain.
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Anel L, Gomes-Alves S, Alvarez M, Borragan S, Anel E, Nicolas M, Martinez-Pastor F, de Paz P. Effect of basic factors of extender composition on post-thawing quality of brown bear electroejaculated spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2010; 74:643-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2009] [Revised: 03/01/2010] [Accepted: 03/07/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Martínez-Pastor F, Mata-Campuzano M, Álvarez-Rodríguez M, Álvarez M, Anel L, De Paz P. Probes and Techniques for Sperm Evaluation by Flow Cytometry. Reprod Domest Anim 2010; 45 Suppl 2:67-78. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2010.01622.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Martínez-Pastor F, Martínez F, Alvarez M, Maroto-Morales A, García-Alvarez O, Soler AJ, Garde JJ, de Paz P, Anel L. Cryopreservation of Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) spermatozoa obtained by electroejaculation. Theriogenology 2009; 71:628-38. [PMID: 18976805 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2008] [Revised: 09/13/2008] [Accepted: 09/14/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
We tested extenders and freezing protocols for Iberian red deer semen. Samples were obtained by electroejaculation (10 stags), and analyzed for motility (CASA), viability (propidium ioide), acrosomal (PNA-FITC) and mitochondrial status (JC-1). Samples were diluted 1+1 in extender, cooled and adjusted for glycerol (extender with higher glycerol concentration), brought to 160 x 10(6)mL(-1) and frozen. Four experiments were carried out, repeating sperm analysis after thawing to compare treatments. In a first experiment, seven samples were frozen using Triladyl (20% egg yolk) and UL extender (Tes-Tris-fructose, 15% egg yolk, 4% glycerol). Triladyl yielded higher motility after thawing. In a second trial, 17 samples were frozen using Triladyl, Andromed, Bioxcell, and UL with 8% LDL (low-density lipoproteins). Triladyl, and Andromed performed better than Bioxcell on motility, and than UL-LDL on viability and acrosomal status. In a third experiment, the performance of freezing the sperm-rich ejaculate fraction versus the whole ejaculate was tested on nine samples. The sperm-rich ejaculate fraction not only rendered more motile and viable spermatozoa but also showed higher freezability (higher motile spermatozoa recovery). In a fourth experiment, we tried three modifications of the freezing protocol, for improving the freezability of low concentration samples: prior removal of seminal plasma; replacing extender (second fraction) for pure glycerol to reduce dilution; and performing only the 1+1 dilution, not the second dilution. No differences were found, although only three samples could be used. Both Triladyl and Andromed were deemed appropriate for freezing Iberian red deer semen, and the rich fraction should be selected for freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Martínez-Pastor
- Biology of Reproduction Group, National Wildlife Research Institute (IREC), CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, and Institute for Regional Development (IDR), 02071 Albacete, Spain.
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Castro-González D, Alvarez M, Muro J, Esteso MC, de Paz P, Anel L, Martínez-Pastor F. The acidic probe LysoSensor is not useful for acrosome evaluation of cryopreserved ram spermatozoa. Reprod Domest Anim 2009; 45:363-7. [PMID: 19210665 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01333.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
To try new acrosomal probes for assessing ram spermatozoa, we compared the LysoSensor probe, which labels acidic organelles, with the frequently used peanut agglutinin acrosomal probe (PNA-PE; phycoerythrin as fluorescent moiety). The previous microscopic observations showed a lack of relationship of LysoSensor with acrosomal status. Semen was obtained from five rams and frozen in four pools. Each pool was analysed carrying out a triple staining propidium ioide/PNA-PE/LysoSensor Green DND-189 to test acrosome labelling, and a double staining SYBR-14/PI, to assess sperm viability. Stained samples were analysed by flow cytometry. All measurements were replicated. Data were processed using agreement and repeatability tests. LysoSensor labelling did not agree with PNA (mean of differences: 30.8%; coefficient of agreement: 22.6%), confirming microscopic observations. Nevertheless, when LysoSensor was compared with SYBR-14/PI, the agreement was high (mean of differences: -0.05%; coefficient of agreement: 5.07%). Repeatability of both methods was high and similar. LysoSensor did not seem to specifically stain the acrosome, but it may accumulate in the cytoplasm and label viable spermatozoa. Therefore, LysoSensor might not be used as an acrosomal probe in ram spermatozoa, but it could be used in other kind of studies, taking advantage of its pH sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Castro-González
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain
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Mata-Campuzano M, Alvarez M, Borragan S, Martinez-Pastor F, Nicolas M, Tamayo J, Anel L, de Paz P. 160 FREEZABILITY OF ELECTROEJACULATED AND EPIDIDYMAL SPERMATOZOA FROM BLUE WILDEBEEST (CONNOCHAETES TAURINUS). Reprod Fertil Dev 2009. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv21n1ab160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of population viability, especially endangered species, requires preservation of as much genetic variability as possible, therefore genetic resource banks are very important. For male gametes, preservation of all available sources (ejaculates and epididymal) are useful. Information regarding sperm characteristics of most wild ruminant species is limited compared to that from domestic species. The objective of this work was to characterize the freezability of electroejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa from a wildebeest (5 year old; housed in Cabárceno Nature Park, Cantabria, Spain) that was castrated because of behavioral problems. After general anesthesia (ethorfine + xilazine, 1.8 mL + 0.5 mg kg–1) with dart, semen was collected by electroejaculation (3 V and 75 mA). Sperm concentration was 250 × 106 mL–1 (total spermatozoa: 1128.6 × 106). After castration, epididymides were disected and spermatozoa were collected by making several incisions in the caudal epididymis. Concentration was 12 441 × 106 spermatozoa mL–1 (total spermatozoa: 24 882 × 106). Samples were diluted to 200 × 106 spermatozoa mL–1 (TesT-Fructose-Egg yolk-Glycerol-Antibiotics) and chilled to 5°C during 2 h. Diluted semen was packaged in 0.25-mL straws and frozen from 5°C to –100°C (–20°C min–1) in a programmable cell freezer (Kryo 10, Planer). Straws were plunged into liquid nitrogen until analysis and thawed in a water bath (65°C, 6 s). Fresh, pre-freezing and post-thawed samples were analysed for motility (total motility TM, %; progressive motility PM, %; path velocity VAP, μm s–1; track speed VCL, μm s–1; progressive velocity VSL, μm s–1) using a CASA (ISAS, Proiser, Valencia, Spain). Viability (VIAB %) (SYBR-14 and propidium iodide) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MIT %) (JC1) were assessed by flow cytometry. Post-thawing results for electroejaculated v. epididymal samples were, respectively: TM: 87.0 v. 64.6%; PM: 68.7 v. 33.4%; VAP: 95.9 v. 49.8 μm s–1; VCL: 108.3 v. 71.6 μm s–1; VSL: 86.7 v. 40.2 μm s–1; VIAB: 57.0 v. 73.9%; MIT: 59.5 v. 77.5%. Motility parameters were higher for the electroejaculated sample; however, viability was higher for the epididymal sample. Recovery rates (post-thawed value/pre-freezing value × 100) for electroejaculated v. epididymal samples were: TM: 97.2 v. 93.4%; PM: 113.3 v. 103.2%; VAP: 88.9 v. 122.0 μm s–1; VCL: 87.5 v. 126.0 μm s–1; VSL: 93.4 v. 125.3 μm s–1; VIAB: 75.0 v. 97.7%; MIT: 69.2 v. 95.9%). These rates suggest a good freezability of electroejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa in blue wildebeest.
This work was supported in part by Cantur. 3 Supported by Juan de la Cierva program (MICINN, Spain).
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Anel L, Borragan S, Alvarez M, Martinez-Pastor F, Mata-Campuzano M, Gomes-Alves S, Anel E, de Paz P. 152 STUDY OF THREE CONSECUTIVE ELECTROEJACULATIONS IN BROWN BEAR (URSUS ARCTOS). Reprod Fertil Dev 2009. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv21n1ab152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The preservation of threatened species, such as the cantabric brown bear, requires the establishment of genetic resource banks. In these species it is important to increase the efficiency of the electroejaculation techniques so as to collect as many gametes as possible from each collection, and to decrease risks of anesthesia and immobilization. Our objective was to study several characteristics of brown bear semen quality obtained in three consecutive electroejaculations (a, b, and c) in the same anesthetic session. Ejaculates were collected from 11 adult males living in the Cabárceno Nature Park during the breeding season (May–July). Animals were anesthetized by administration of tiletamine + zolazepan (Zoletil 100®) and ketamine (Imalgene 1000®) before being subjected to electroejaculation (6 to 10 V; 250 to 300 mA). From each ejaculate we assessed motility (CASA: SCA, Microptic, Barcelona, Spain), osmolality (mOsm k–1), and viability (VIAB: % viable spermatozoa (spz), SYBR-14 and propidium iodide) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MIT: % spz, JC-1) by flow cytometry. Our results show that total spz (×106 spz) varies widely among individuals depending on the number of electroejaculation. In five males we observe a decreasing pattern (a: 454.50; b: 341.7; c: 138.0); in other two males it is observed an increasing pattern (a: 24.9; b: 70.3; c: 334.3) while in the remaining four males we see a varied pattern, with the sperm production peak in the second electroejaculation (a: 53.4; b: 270.6; c: 107.5). Motility parameters do not show differences among the three electroejaculations, showing a reduction of the progressive motility in the males with increasing pattern with respect to the other patterns. Also, spermatozoa physiology indicators show a relation with the sperm production patterns. For viability (%) it is shown a rising tendency in the increasing pattern (a: 64.0, b: 80.0, c: 79.5) and a reduction tendency in the decreasing pattern (a: 68.7, b: 61.0, c: 58.7). The same is observed in the case of mitochondrial membrane potential (%) (increasing pattern [a: 77.0, b: 89.0, c: 87.0]; decreasing pattern [a: 80.0, b: 76.3, c: 55.7]). Ejaculates of the varied pattern show irregular data for these parameters. On the other hand, osmolality changes depending on the number of electroejaculation (increasing pattern [a: 324.0, b: 289.0, c: 298.3]; decreasing pattern [a: 333.0, b: 297.0, c: 283.0]; varied pattern [a: 264.0, b: 294.6, c: 318.54]) which would determine a change in the spz microenvironment that regulates their physiological activity. Although the high individual variability observed does not lead to solid conclusions, our results indicate that consecutive electroejaculations can be useful for increasing the technique yield in brown bear.
Supported by CICYT (CGL2007-63788/BOS) and Cantur SA. 3Supported by Juan de la Cierva program (MICINN, Spain).
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Anel L, Álvarez M, Martínez-Pastor F, Gomes S, Nicolás M, Mata M, Martínez AF, Borragán S, Anel E, de Paz P. Sperm Cryopreservation in Brown Bear (Ursus arctos): Preliminary Aspects. Reprod Domest Anim 2008; 43 Suppl 4:9-17. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01248.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abstract
Artificial insemination in ram is scarcely widespread comparing with other domestic species. This has been due not only to fertility results being irregular and low but also because of the difficulty in the application of enhancements such as the use of frozen-thawed sperm. Although there is a lot of information on the use of different options to improve these AI results (such as transcervical application, the use of thawed sperm, etc.) commercial programmes can be classified on two general categories: those using refrigerated semen (15 degrees C) by superficial intracervical deposition (vaginal), and, more restricted, those using thawed sperm by intrauterine deposition (laparoscopy). In the present work, we have summarized our viewpoint on three general research lines for the improvement of AI results in sheep: semen preservation, AI procedures and semen assessment. Briefly, in ram it is necessary to develop a medium term methodology of sperm refrigeration (3-5 days), which would allow the distribution of sperm doses to a widespread area. Nevertheless, it is also necessary to develop an intrauterine transcervical AI technique, which allows thawed semen to be applied by vaginal insemination. Besides, the low predictive value of classic assessment techniques limits the ability to adjust the number of spermatozoa per dose according to its actual fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Anel
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, Leon, Spain.
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Martínez-Páramo S, Pérez-Cerezales S, Robles V, Anel L, Herráez MP. Incorporation of antifreeze proteins into zebrafish embryos by a non-invasive method. Cryobiology 2008; 56:216-22. [PMID: 18457823 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2008.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2007] [Revised: 01/30/2008] [Accepted: 03/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The cryopreservation of fish embryos is a challenge because of their structure, with multiple compartments and permeability barriers, and their high chilling sensitivity. Vitrification at advanced developmental stages is considered to be the more promising option. Nevertheless, all reported attempts have failed. Previous studies demonstrated a better ability for freezing in species that naturally express antifreeze proteins (AFPs). These proteins have been delivered into other fish embryos using time-consuming techniques like microinjection. In the present study, the introduction of FITC labelled AFPs was assayed in zebrafish embryos at early developmental stages (from 2-cell to high blastula stage), before the formation of the yolk syncytial layer, by an easy and non-invasive method and evaluated by fluorescence and confocal microscopy. Incubation with AFPs at 128-cell or high blastula stage provides incorporation of the protein in 50-90% of embryos without affecting hatching. Incubation in media containing protein is a simple, harmless and effective method which makes it possible to treat several embryos at the same time. AFPs remain located in derivatives from marginal blastomeres: the yolk syncytial layer, the most cryosensitive and impermeable barrier, and different digestive organs. Our findings demonstrate that delivery of AFP type I and AFP type III into zebrafish embryos by incubation in media containing protein is a simple and harmless method that may improve cryoprotection of the cellular compartment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Martínez-Páramo
- Department of Molecular Biology, Area of Cell Biology, University of León, Campus de Vegazana 24071, León, Spain
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Martinez-Pastor F, Cabrita E, Soares F, Anel L, Dinis MT. Multivariate cluster analysis to study motility activation of Solea senegalensis spermatozoa: a model for marine teleosts. Reproduction 2008; 135:449-59. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-07-0376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Fernández-Santos MR, Martínez-Pastor F, García-Macías V, Esteso MC, Soler AJ, de Paz P, Anel L, Garde JJ. Extender osmolality and sugar supplementation exert a complex effect on the cryopreservation of Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) epididymal spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2007; 67:738-53. [PMID: 17140651 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2006.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2006] [Revised: 09/30/2006] [Accepted: 10/16/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
We have carried out two experiments to study the cryobiology of red deer epididymal spermatozoa and to improve freezing extenders: (1) effect of extender (Tris-citrate-fructose) osmolality (300-600 mOsm/kg), and (2) effect of sugar (0.4M) supplementation to the extender (no sugar, glucose, fructose, mannose, sucrose, maltose, threalose and raffinose). Sperm quality was assessed pre-freezing, post-thawing, and after 2h at 37 degrees C post-thawing: sperm motility index (SMI), acrosome integrity and membrane integrity (HOS test) were assessed subjectively; mitochondrial activity (JC-1) and membrane stability (merocyanine 540) were assessed by flow cytometry. In experiment 2, DNA status was assessed using acridine orange and flow cytometry. To find an optimal osmolality, we fitted the data to a quadratic curve. Four hundred Osmolal per kilogram rendered better results pre-freezing and post-thawing. However, post-thawing viability and most parameters after 2h incubation fitted a linear model. Osmolalities above 425 mOsm/kg were deleterious (P<0.05). In experiment 2, fructose had a positive effect respect to control after 2h of incubation at 37 degrees C post-thawing. Di and trisaccharides were deleterious. Trehalose showed impaired DNA status after 2h incubation. In conclusion, the osmolality of the extenders should be around 400 mOsm/kg, although the change from quadratic to lineal may indicate a complex effect that must be further studied. Monosaccharides may enhance red deer epididymal sperm cryopreservation, especially fructose, whereas di and trisaccharides may not be adequate.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Fernández-Santos
- Grupo de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC), UCLM-CSIC-JCCM, 02071 Albacete, Spain
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Garcia-Macias V, Martinez-Pastor F, Alvarez M, Paz P, Borragan S, Anel E, Mata M, Nicolas M, Anel L. 245 USE OF A TRIPLE STAIN (SYBR-14/PI/MC540) FOR VIABILITY AND CAPACITATION ASSESSMENT IN THAWED SEMEN FROM BROWN BEAR (URSUS ARCTOS). Reprod Fertil Dev 2007. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv19n1ab245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Application of new sperm assessment techniques would improve our capability to determine the effects of cryopreservation on sperm function. This becomes relevant when germplasm banks are established for endangered species, as in the case of the brown bear in Spain. Different triple stain techniques have been used in conjunction with flow cytometry to assess various sperm attributes including viability and acrosome status. However, fluorochromes with similar emission spectra may interfere with data resolution, making acquisition and interpretation of data difficult. The double stain combination of SYBR-14 and PI (propidium iodide; max λ 617) has been widely used to differentiate live from dead spermatozoa (spz), and, more recently, merocyanine 540 (MC; max λ 555) has been used to detect a sperm membrane lipid disorder associated with sperm capacitation. In the present study, we analyzed the suitability of combining SYBR-14/PI with MC for simultaneous determination of the viability and capacitation status of frozen–thawed spermatozoa of brown bears (n = 10; semi-free ranging; Cabarceno Park, Cantabria, Spain) obtained by electroejaculation under general anesthesia (7 mg kg-1 tiletamine + zolazepan and 2 mg kg-1 ketamine). Semen was diluted (Tes-Tris-fructose, 8% glycerol, 20% egg yolk, EDTA, and Equex paste), loaded in 0.25-mL straws, and frozen in a biofreezer at 20�C min-1 to -100�C. After storage in liquid nitrogen, samples were thawed at 65�C for 6 s, divided into 2 aliquots (1–2 million spz mL-1), extended with 300 �L PBS, and stained with SYBR14 (1.2 �L) and PI (3 �L; LIVE/DEAD� Sperm Viability Kit; Molecular Probes, Inc., Eugene, OR, USA). To evaluate the possible interaction of MC on sperm viability, half of the aliquots were counterstained with 1.5 �L of MC (diluted with 2.7 �M of DMSO); the other half were not counterstained (control). All tubes were incubated at 37�C for 30 min, and assessed by flow cytometry (FACSCalibur; BD Biosciences, San Jose, CA, USA). Data were analyzed with Bland-Altman. Results indicated that MC staining was mainly confined to dead spermatozoa (22.2 � 7.7%), whereas a lower percentage of live spermatozoa (5.7 � 1.6%; P < 0.05) were also stained with MC. Possibly, the staining of dead spermatozoa with MC was due to capacitation changes induced by cryopreservation. The percentage of live spermatozoa was not different between samples counterstained with MC (68.9 � 9.2) and non-MC-stained control samples (68.6 � 8.8). Thus, we consider that MC does not influence SYBR14/PI discrimination of viable spermatozoa, and that the 3 stains can be used simultaneously. However, more studies are necessary to determine whether MC can be used to distinguish the capacitation status of brown bear thawed spermatozoa.
This work was supported by CANTUR S.A. and CICYT (CGL 2004-0278/BOS).
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Anel L, Garcia-Macias V, Martinez-Pastor F, Alvarez M, Borragan S, Bernardo J, Alves S, Chamorro C, Paz P. 242 EFFECT OF SPERMATOZOA HEAD MORPHOMETRIC DIMENSIONS ON FREEZABILITY IN BROWN BEAR (URSUS ARCTOS). Reprod Fertil Dev 2007. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv19n1ab242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Having recently observed that survival of red deer spermatozoa after cryopreservation seemed to reflect the size of sperm heads, we hypothesized that cryoresistance of brown bear spermatozoa might also be dependent on head size, since in a preliminary study we had also observed significant differences in sperm head sizes among male brown bears (median values for area 22.2 �m2, perimeter 18.2, length 6.1 and width 4.4 �m). In the present report, we analyzed the post-thaw survival of spermatozoa of 6 brown bears that were assigned to 2 groups (3 bears/group) based on sperm size: Group A with large-size sperm heads; Group B with small-size heads. Ejaculates were obtained by electroejaculation of adult brown bears (semi-free ranging in Cabarceno Park, Cantabria, Spain) under general anesthesia (7 mg kg-1 tiletamine + zolazepan and 2 mg kg-1 ketamine). Semen was diluted (Tes-Tris-fructose, 8% glycerol, 20% egg yolk, EDTA, and Equex paste), loaded in 0.25-mL straws, and frozen in a biofreezer at 20�C min-1 to -100�C. After storage in liquid nitrogen, samples were thawed in water at 65�C for 6 s and survival was measured. Sperm motility (TM: total, and PM: progressive; %) was assessed microscopically, and sperm viability, acrosome integrity (PI/PNA-FITC), and mitochondrial status (JC-1) were assayed for fresh and thawed sperm by flow cytometry. Recovery rates (RR: thawed/fresh � 100) were calculated for all parameters. For measurement of head size, fresh sperm samples were fixed in glutaraldehyde and slides were air-dried for 2 h. The samples were then stained with Diff-Quik� staining at 37�C. The area (Ar), perimeter (P), length (L), and width (W) of the heads of >100 spermatozoa per slide were measured (Sperm Class Analyzer�; Microptic S.L., Barcelona, Spain). Data were analyzed with the SAS ver8 system, and the Wilcoxon test was applied. The respective morphometric dimensions of the 2 groups were practically identical (Ar = 22; P = 18; L = 6; W = 4). The post-thaw recovery rates of spermatozoa from Group A were: TM: 60.1 � 29.3; PM: 54.8 � 36.0; viability: 99.4 � 8.0; acrosomes: 96.2 � 3.1; mitochondria: 70.9 � 15.5. The recovery rates for Group B were: TM: 78.7 � 13.8; PM: 69.0 � 18.8; viability: 93.8 � 5.2; acrosomes: 98.2 � 9.8; mitochondria: 72.5 � 22.5. Because of the high variability of recovery rates between males within each group, there were no statistical differences between the 2 groups. The absence of differences can be explained by the small number of males examined and the high variability between them. More studies are necessary to determine whether large sperm cells of brown bears are more susceptible to damage during cryopreservation.
This work was supported in part by CANTUR S.A. and CICYT (CGL 2004-0278/BOS).
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Kaabi M, Alvarez M, Anel E, Chamorro CA, Boixo JC, de Paz P, Anel L. Influence of breed and age on morphometry and depth of inseminating catheter penetration in the ewe cervix: A postmortem study. Theriogenology 2006; 66:1876-83. [PMID: 16790269 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2006.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2006] [Revised: 04/05/2006] [Accepted: 04/10/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A detailed examination of the cervical canal in the ewe was carried out. This analysis could be used to design new catheters for artificial insemination (AI) to achieve deeper cervical penetration and therefore better fertility results. Three hundred and sixty-five cervices from four sheep breeds (Churra, Assaf, Merino, Castellana) obtained postmortem were used. Cervix morphometry and depth of cervical penetration using two types of catheters were determined. A conventional straight catheter for ovine artificial insemination (IMV), and a bent catheter, ending in a stainless steel needle, 9 cm in length and with an 8 mm tip bent 45 degrees , were used. The results showed that the morphometry of the cervix depends on breed and age of the ewe. The cervices of Churra breed were shorter and narrower, and had a higher number of folds than those of other breeds. Postmortem cervical penetration was deeper when the cervices were longer and wider, and with fewer folds (Merino and Castellana breeds). In ageing ewes, the cervix tended to become longer and wider, with loose folds. This decreased structural complexity and significantly improved cervical penetration. The bent catheter allowed significantly greater cervical penetration than the straight IMV one.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kaabi
- Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
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Fernández-Santos MR, Martínez-Pastor F, García-Macías V, Esteso MC, Soler AJ, Paz P, Anel L, Garde JJ. Sperm Characteristics and DNA Integrity of Iberian Red Deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) Epididymal Spermatozoa Frozen in the Presence of Enzymatic and Nonenzymatic Antioxidants. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 28:294-305. [PMID: 17079744 DOI: 10.2164/jandrol.106.000935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The main goal of this study was to investigate the potential protective effects of enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants on cryopreservation injuries to red deer epididymal spermatozoa. In Experiment 1, the effects on sperm freezability of the enzymatic antioxidants catalase, superoxide dismutase, and a combination thereof were studied. In Experiment 2, sperm cryoresistance was evaluated when different nonenzymatic antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), were added to the freezing extender. Sperm quality was judged in vitro by microscopic assessments of individual sperm motility (SMI), viability, and acrosome (ie, spermatozoa with normal apical ridges; % NAR) and membrane (by means of the HOS test) integrity. To address fully these topics, we incorporated a new set of functional sperm tests for mitochondrial function, membrane phospholipid disorder, and sperm chromatin stability. Samples were evaluated after freezing and thawing, and after a 2-hour period of incubation at 37 degrees C. The present study demonstrates that the addition of enzymatic antioxidants to freezing extenders improves sperm viability after cooling, and improves sperm motility, acrosome integrity, and mitochondrial status (P<.05) after thawing. After a 2-hour incubation period at 37 degrees C in the presence of enzymatic antioxidants, an improvement in membrane integrity (P<.05) was observed. However, when nonenzymatic antioxidants were present in the freezing diluents, no positive effects on thawed sperm parameters were noted. The chromatin stability test did not show significant differences between the treatments. We conclude that enzymatic antioxidants should be present in the early steps of cryopreservation of epididymal spermatozoa from red deer, so as to improve motility and acrosome integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- María R Fernández-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction Group, Department of Game Resources (IDR), Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), Albacete, Spain
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Garde JJ, Martínez-Pastor F, Gomendio M, Malo AF, Soler AJ, Fernández-Santos MR, Esteso MC, García AJ, Anel L, Roldán ERS. The Application of Reproductive Technologies to Natural Populations of Red Deer. Reprod Domest Anim 2006; 41 Suppl 2:93-102. [PMID: 16984473 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00773.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, there has been increasing interest in the application of reproductive technology to the conservation and management of natural populations of deer. The application of assisted reproduction technologies within natural population of deer is in its infancy. However, its future potential is enormous, particularly in relation to genetic management or conservation. This paper reviews the present state of such technologies for a wild subspecies of red deer, the Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus), by discussing the major components of oestrous synchronization, semen collection/cryopreservation and insemination techniques. In addition, findings made during the course of studies on natural populations have enormous potential for the understanding of novel reproductive mechanism that may not be uncovered by livestock or human studies. A summary of these results are also reviewed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Garde
- Reproductive Biology Group, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (UCLM-CSIC-JCCM), Campus Universitario, Albacete, Spain.
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Rodríguez C, Anel L, Alvarez M, Anel E, Boixo JC, Chamorro CA, de Paz P. Ovum Pick-up in Sheep: a Comparison between Different Aspiration Devices for Optimal Oocyte Retrieval. Reprod Domest Anim 2006; 41:106-13. [PMID: 16519714 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00648.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In vivo ovum pick-up (OPU) in sheep may be improved with a proper choice of aspiration elements (needle and tubing) and aspiration vacuum pressure. In the present study, two experiments were carried out. In Expt 1, visible follicles in ovaries of slaughtered ewes (treated separately according to their diameters: small<3 mm, medium 3-5 mm and large>5 mm) were aspirated using different combinations of the three studied factors such as aspiration flow rate (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 ml water/min), needle gauge (18 and 20 G) and tubing inner diameter (1, 2 or 3 mm internal diameter). In Expt 2, a study with two 18 G needles of different lengths (18 G: 82 mm; 18 GL: 600 mm) was carried out, using ovaries obtained post-mortem, and performing in vivo laparoscopic follicular aspiration on ewes. We considered good quality oocytes as those with both complete compact cumulus and a homogeneous cytoplasm. Recovery rate, proportion of good quality oocytes (good quality oocytes/100 oocytes recovered) and overall efficiency (good quality oocytes/100 follicles aspirated) were noted. In Expt 1, aspiration flow rate affect remarkable proportion of good quality oocytes (69.5%, 50.5%, 44.8%, 36.5% and 28.3% for flows from 10 to 50 ml/min respectively, p<0.05). Needle gauge did not affect aspiration device efficiency. Thin and intermediate tubings were more effective (overall efficiency rates: 34.9%, 32.3% and 28.1% for 1, 2 and 3 mm respectively, p<0.05). Follicle size did not affect recovery rate, but proportion of good quality oocytes was higher for large (77.9%) and medium (64.4%) follicles (p<0.05). Finally, some combinations of the aspiration device showed greater effectiveness. In Expt 2, needle length did not influence recovery rate, but good quality oocytes rate was significantly modified both post-mortem and in vivo (good quality rate for 18 G vs 18 GL needles: 69.5% vs 47.7% and 58.1% vs 25.4%, post-mortem and in vivo respectively, p<0.05). We conclude that low-aspiration flow rates (10 and 20 ml/min) with thin or intermediate tubings (1 and 2 mm), and any short needle (18 G or 20 G) are the most adequate aspiration factors for OPU in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Rodríguez
- Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, León, Spain
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Martinez-Pastor F, Garcia-Macias V, Garcia J, Alvarez M, Anel E, Herraez P, de Paz P, Anel L. 223 DESCRIPTION OF GENITALIA AND SPERM RECOVERED POSTMORTEM FROM A PYGMY SPERM WHALE, KOGIA BREVICEPS. Reprod Fertil Dev 2006. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv18n2ab223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A pygmy sperm whale (Kogia breviceps; adult male; 350 kg) was stranded and died on a beach near Cabo Bustos (Asturias, North of Spain) on March 12th, 2005. Finding specimens of this species is a rare event on Spanish shores, although this whale is not considered endangered. Postmortem examination was performed 24 h later. Genitalia (testicles and epididymides) were extracted. The postmortem report indicated that vas deferens and seminal glands seemed to contain an important amount of semen, which was not recovered. Refrigerated genitalia were send to our laboratory, arriving around 40 h postmortem. The refrigerated testicles were in poor physical condition upon arrival, indicating advanced tissue detoriation. The epididymides (very long) were not closely attached to the testicles, but were connected by a loose conjunctive membrane. We divided the epididymides into four regions that approximated the (1) caput, (2) mid-region, (3) corpus, and (4) cauda. Physical characteristics of the genitalia are described in Table 1. The left testicle was larger, and possibly more active, than the right one. A sperm sample was obtained from the cauda region after incising the tissue. Osmolality and pH of the sample were 428 mOsm/kg and 6.62, respectively (maybe due to tissue breakdown) and the sperm concentration was 1194 × 106/mL. Spermatozoa were immotile, even after diluting in buffered medium; it is possible that postmortem damage occurred quickly. However, using flow cytometry we determined that 57% of cauda spermatozoa had intact plasma membranes and acrosomes (determined by staining with 37 mmol/mL propidium iodide and 1 μg/mL PNA-FITC; Sigma, Madrid, Spain). Examination by phase contrast microscopy (×600) showed many spermatozoa with abnormal heads and bent midpieces and flagella, even in the cauda (13% and 21%, respectively). Sperm head morphometry was studied using DiffQuick staining and an automated analysis system (SCA2000; Microptic, Barcelona, Spain). Mean sperm head size was 3.71 ± 0.19 × 2.61 ± 0.12 μm in width and length, respectively. Computer analysis (AnalySiS-GmbH, Cologne, Germany) of phase contrast images revealed that the mean size of the sperm midpiece and flagellum were 3.44 ± 0.19 and 40.95 ± 2.02 μm, respectively. The information obtained after postmortem recovery of the testes and epididymis should be useful to future conservation efforts of the pygmy sperm whale and similar species. The rapid deterioration of the testicular tissue by 40 h postmortem was not expected since good quality sperm samples have been obtained at similar postmortem intervals in other species. Therefore, we recommend that postmortem sperm recovery should be accomplished as rapidly as possible in this species.
Table 1.
Genitalia measurements
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Álvarez M, Martínez-Pastor F, García-Macías V, Borragán S, Celada M, Bernardo J, Gonzalez N, Alves S, Anel L. 215 EPIDIDYMAL SPERM CRYOPRESERVATION OF ONE SOMALIA WILD ASS (EQUUS AFRICANUS SOMALIENSIS) USING SIX DIFFERENT EXTENDERS. Reprod Fertil Dev 2006. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv18n2ab215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The Somalia wild ass (Equus africanus somaliensis) is a critically endangered taxon (IUCN 2004 red list) which could benefit from biological resource banking. In this work, we studied the effect of different extenders applied to the cryopreservation of epididymal sperm obtained from one male of this subspecies. This animal (13 years old; housed in Cabarceno Park, Cantabria, Spain) was castrated because of very aggressive behavior with other mature males. Genitalia were dissected and weighed (testicles: right, 166 g, and left, 179 g; cauda epididymis: right, 9.3 g, and left, 11.8 g). Sperm were flushed from the cauda epididymis, yielding 15 mL of sample. Sperm concentration was 15 × 109 spermatozoa/mL, totaling 225 × 109 (allowing 4500 doses at 50 × 106 sperm/dose). Sperm motility (TM = % total motile; PM = % progressive; VAP = average path velocity) was assessed by CASA (Microptic, Barcelona, Spain). Viability (VIAB = % viable sperm) and acrosomal status (ACR = % viable spermatozoa with intact acrosomes) were assessed using propidium iodide (37 μmol/L) and PNA-FITC (1 ng/L) and flow cytometry. Chemicals were purchased from Sigma (Madrid, Spain). Part of the sample was divided into six aliquots and diluted 1:1 with different extenders: UL4: Tes-Tris-Fructose (TTF), 10% egg yolk (EG), and 4% glycerol (G); UL8: TTF, 20% EG, and 8% G; AND4: Andromed® (Minitüb, Tiefenbach, Germany) and 4% G; AND7: Andromed® and 7% G; GENT: Gent 1045; and INRA: INRA96 and 4% G. Andromed, Gent, and INRA are commercial extenders. Samples were cooled to 5°C (−0.2°C/min) and then diluted to 200 × 106 sperm/mL. Samples were packed (0.5-mL straws) and frozen using a biofreezer (from 5°C to −15°C at −15°C/min, and from −15°C to −100°C at −25°C/min). Samples were thawed at 65°C for 6 s, and assessed as for pre-freezing (Table 1). Post-thawing motility recovery using AND7 was excellent. The highest viability recovery was achieved by UL4, although that in AND7 was similar. The poor results of equine commercial extender Gent 1045 in this species are remarkable. Our results highlight the importance of species differences in the field of sperm cryopreservation. It is necessary to carry out continuous research for optimizing cryopreservation protocols in order to create germplasm banks for wild species.
Table 1.
Quality assessment results
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Garcia-Macias V, Martinez-Pastor F, Alvarez M, Paz P, Borragan S, Celada M, Anel E, Anel L. 219 MORPHOMETRIC CHARACTERIZATION OF EPIDIDYMAL AND EJACULATED SPERMATOZOA FROM BROWN BEAR (URSUS ARCTOS). Reprod Fertil Dev 2006. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv18n2ab219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm morphology is an useful characteristic for estimating potential fertility. Currently, we are obtaining baseline information on various aspects of reproduction in the brown bear (Ursus arctos) with the intention of using the knowledge to establish a germplasm bank for the species. In the present report, we describe the results obtained using assisted sperm morphology analysis (ASMA, Sperm Class Analyzer®; Microptic S.L, Barcelona, Spain) to analyze the morphological differences in epidydimal (caput, corpus, and cauda) and ejaculated brown bear spermatozoa. A post-mortem epididymal sperm sample was obtained from an adult brown bear after accidental death. The epididymides were excised, washed, and dissected into the three major segments; caput, corpus and cauda. Then multiple incisions were made in the tissue to allow migration of spermatozoa into the surrounding medium. Semen was collected by electroejaculation from five adult brown bears living in a semi-free ranging environment in the Cabarceno Park (Cantabria, Spain). Anesthesia was induced using tiletamine + zolazepan (Zoletil 100®; Virbac, Carras, France; 7 mg/kg), and ketamine (Imalgene 1000®; Rhone Merieux, Lyon, France; 2 mg/kg). The electroejaculation unit (PT Electronics®; Boring, Oregon) was connected to a 3-lateral electrode transrectal probe (26 mm in diameter, 320 mm in length). Ejaculation occurred at 6–10 V/250–300 mA. For head morphometry assessment, sperm samples were fixed in glutaraldehyde and slides were smeared and air-dried for 2 h. The samples were then stained with Diff-Quik® staining (37°C; 10 min in the red component and 15 min in the blue component). The area, perimeter, length and width, and ellipticity (length/width) of heads were measured from at least 100 spermatozoa/slide. As shown in Table 1, values obtained for each measure were similar in both epididymal and ejaculated spermatozoa. These results provide normal morphometry values for brown bear spermatozoa, a potentially useful characteristic for predicting fertility.
Table 1.
Head morphometry for epididymis and ejaculated bear sperm (mean ± SD)
This work was supported in part by CANTUR S.A. and CICYT (CGL 2004–0278/BOS).
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Anel L, Kaabi M, Abroug B, Alvarez M, Anel E, Boixo JC, de la Fuente LF, de Paz P. Factors influencing the success of vaginal and laparoscopic artificial insemination in churra ewes: a field assay. Theriogenology 2005; 63:1235-47. [PMID: 15710206 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2004.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2004] [Revised: 06/03/2004] [Accepted: 06/22/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy rate following artificial insemination (AI) in sheep is variable depending on several factors. The Churra breed (milk breed of the North-West of Spain) yields lower fertility results compared with other local and European breeds (Manchega, Latxa, Merino, Lacaune, Sarde, etc.). In this work we studied the influence of many factors on the fertility of the Churra breed (insemination technique, year, farm, age, male, number of inseminations per ewe, lambing-insemination interval and technician), analyzing lambing data obtained after 44448 inseminations (39.67% cervical AI via vagina, AIV, and 60.33% intrauterine AI using laparoscopy, AIL) in a categorical model. The most important factors influencing fertility after AI were farm, year, season, AI technique, and technician. AIL showed significantly higher fertility results than AIV (44.89% versus 31.25%). Season significantly affected fertility in both cases, but differences were more evident in AIV. Fertility dropped 1.74% (AIV) and 2.07% (AIL) per year as the ewes aged. Finally, AI fertility decreased when the lambing-insemination interval was lower than 10 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Anel
- Animal Reproduction and Obstetrics, University of León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain.
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