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Morrell JM, Rocha A. A Novel Approach to Minimising Acute Equine Endometritis That May Help to Prevent the Development of the Chronic State. Front Vet Sci 2022; 8:799619. [PMID: 35071389 PMCID: PMC8770823 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.799619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most commonly encountered challenges in equine breeding is endometritis, which can be difficult to resolve and causes considerable economic losses to the industry. It is a multifactorial condition, developing as an exaggerated form of the normal physiological response to breeding. Seminal plasma proteins, spermatozoa, bacteria and debris initiate an inflammatory response; the resulting fluid and neutrophils are then cleared from the uterus along with the debris. However, in some mares, the response is prolonged or exaggerated, with much fluid formation and neutrophil infiltration leading to acute endometritis. A bacterial cause has been implicated, although in some cases no pathogenic organisms can be isolated on culture. It has been postulated that any one of a variety of bacteria could be involved, or dysbiosis of the uterine microbiome could be responsible. Repeated episodes of acute endometritis may lead to the pathology associated with chronic endometritis, with mucociliary dysfunction, vascular degeneration and plasma cell infiltration. This review examines the information that is currently available about equine endometritis, particularly about the role of the inseminate in the uterus, and its current treatment. There are some promising lines of research into treatment or prevention that may help to resolve the issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Morrell
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - A Rocha
- Department of Immuno-Physiology and Pharmacology, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Sahoo B, Choudhary RK, Sharma P, Choudhary S, Gupta MK. Significance and Relevance of Spermatozoal RNAs to Male Fertility in Livestock. Front Genet 2021; 12:768196. [PMID: 34956322 PMCID: PMC8696160 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.768196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Livestock production contributes to a significant part of the economy in developing countries. Although artificial insemination techniques brought substantial improvements in reproductive efficiency, male infertility remains a leading challenge in livestock. Current strategies for the diagnosis of male infertility largely depend on the evaluation of semen parameters and fail to diagnose idiopathic infertility in most cases. Recent evidences show that spermatozoa contains a suit of RNA population whose profile differs between fertile and infertile males. Studies have also demonstrated the crucial roles of spermatozoal RNA (spRNA) in spermatogenesis, fertilization, and early embryonic development. Thus, the spRNA profile may serve as unique molecular signatures of fertile sperm and may play pivotal roles in the diagnosis and treatment of male fertility. This manuscript provides an update on various spRNA populations, including protein-coding and non-coding RNAs, in livestock species and their potential role in semen quality, particularly sperm motility, freezability, and fertility. The contribution of seminal plasma to the spRNA population is also discussed. Furthermore, we discussed the significance of rare non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) such as long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) in spermatogenic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijayalaxmi Sahoo
- Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela, India
| | - Ratan K Choudhary
- College of Animal Biotechnology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Paramajeet Sharma
- College of Animal Biotechnology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Shanti Choudhary
- College of Animal Biotechnology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela, India
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Papin J, Stuhtmann G, Martinsson G, Sieme H, Lundeheim N, Ntallaris T, Morrell JM. Stored Stallion Sperm Quality Depends on Sperm Preparation Method in INRA82 or INRA96. J Equine Vet Sci 2020; 98:103367. [PMID: 33663717 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Removal of seminal plasma facilitates stallion sperm survival during storage, but washing may damage sperm chromatin. Therefore, sperm quality was compared in samples following single-layer centrifugation (SLC) or sperm washing and controls (extension only) in two extenders, INRA82 and INRA96. Ejaculates from six stallions were split among six treatments: SLC, sperm washing, and controls, in INRA82 and INRA96. Sperm motility and acrosome status were evaluated at 0, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours; morphology at 0, 24, 48, 72 hours and chromatin integrity at 0 and 96 hours, with storage at 6°C. Sperm samples in INRA96 had better motility, acrosome status, and normal morphology than samples in INRA82. The SLC samples had higher motility and fewer reacted acrosomes than controls, and lower fragmented chromatin than washed samples. Fewer spermatozoa with tail defects were observed after SLC than after sperm washing; spermatozoa washed in INRA82 had fewer tail defects than those washed in INRA96. In conclusion, sperm quality (except for morphology) was better in INRA96 than in INRA82 and was better in SLC samples than in washed samples or controls. The SLC method is a useful adjunct to stallion sperm preparation, especially for storage before artificial insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Papin
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | - Harald Sieme
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nils Lundeheim
- Animal Breeding and Genetics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Theodoros Ntallaris
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jane M Morrell
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Pessoa G, Martini A, Trentin J, Minela T, Rubin M. Effect of plasma separation techniques and sperm selection on sperm recovery and viability of cooled pony stallion semen for 48h at 5°C. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-11986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Separation techniques of seminal plasma [centrifugation (SC) and Sperm Filter® (SF)] and sperm selection [Androcoll-E (SCA) and filtration glass wool (GW)] were used in 24 ejaculates from 6 stallions. In experiment 1, the ejaculates were allocated into control (no spin), centrifugation at 600 g x 10min, SF and GW. In experiment 2, semen was submitted to SC, SGA and filtered through GW. Following the treatments in both experiments, samples were kept chilled at 5°C to 50 x 106 sperm/ml for 48h. The variables measured on fresh and cooling semen were pH, motility, membrane viability function by 6-carboxyfluorescein diacetate and propidium iodide (CFDA / PI), viability or vitality (eosin / nigrosine) and mitochondrial activity. In experiment 1, centrifugation to remove seminal plasma resulted in greater damage to sperm than separation by sperm filter, and selection by glass wool was more efficient in separating viable cells and maintaining viability during cooling. In experiment 2 Androcoll-E and glass wool treatments resulted in higher (P <0.0001) motility, membrane function, mitochondrial activity, and viability than centrifuged semen. Both selection by Androcoll- E and glass wool improved the quality of semen pony stallions for preservation for up to 48h to 5ºC.
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Affiliation(s)
- G.A. Pessoa
- Universidade Federal Santa Maria, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - M.I.B. Rubin
- Universidade Federal Santa Maria, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Ing NH, Konganti K, Ghaffari N, Johnson CD, Forrest DW, Love CC, Varner DD. Identification and quantification of coding and long non-coding RNAs in stallion spermatozoa separated by density. Andrology 2020; 8:1409-1418. [PMID: 32243084 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is not unusual for stallions to have fertility problems. For many, artificial insemination with more dense spermatozoa (isolated by density gradient centrifugation) results in greater pregnancy rates compared with the rates when using unfractionated spermatozoa. RNAs in spermatozoa delivered to the oocyte at conception are required for embryo development. Novel molecular assays of spermatozoa that reflect function are needed to predict the fertility of stallions. OBJECTIVES To describe and compare the RNA populations in more dense and less dense spermatozoa from stallions. MATERIALS AND METHODS Spermatozoa from five stallions were separated into more dense and less dense populations by density gradient centrifugation. Complementary DNA libraries were made from each of the ten total RNA samples after ribosomal RNA removal. Next-generation sequencing characterized the RNA populations in more and less dense spermatozoa. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR was used to confirm differential expression of selected RNAs. RESULTS Stallion spermatozoa contain 11 215 RNAs, with the most prevalent RNA being a 1492 base long non-coding RNA. The levels of 159 RNAs were greater in more dense spermatozoa, while levels of seven other RNAs were greater in less dense spermatozoa. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR confirmed the threefold greater levels of solute carrier family 26 member 8 (SLC26A8) mRNA in less dense spermatozoa, and sixfold and threefold greater expression levels of the SCP2 sterol binding domain containing 1 (SCP2D1) and spermatogenesis-associated protein 31D1 (SPATA31D1) mRNAs in more dense spermatozoa, respectively. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION We identified 11 215 RNAs in stallion spermatozoa and 166 with differential expression between more dense and less dense fractions. Many prevalent RNAs were also found in bull, boar, and human spermatozoa. Many differentially expressed RNAs are known to be testis- or spermatozoa-specific. Our results may lead to identification of an RNA population in spermatozoa that is optimal for establishing successful pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy H Ing
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Kranti Konganti
- Texas A&M Institute for Genome Sciences and Society, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Noushin Ghaffari
- AgriLife Genomics and Bioinformatics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.,Roy G. Perry College of Engineering, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX, USA
| | - Charles D Johnson
- AgriLife Genomics and Bioinformatics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - David W Forrest
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Charles C Love
- Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Dickson D Varner
- Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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Morrell JM, Nunes MM. Practical guide to single layer centrifugation of stallion semen. EQUINE VET EDUC 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. M. Morrell
- Clinical Sciences; Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences; Uppsala Sweden
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In vivo fertilizing ability of stallion spermatozoa processed by single layer centrifugation with Androcoll-E™. Saudi J Biol Sci 2016; 24:1489-1496. [PMID: 30294217 PMCID: PMC6169511 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2016.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A colloid with a species specific silane-coated, silica-based formulation, optimized for stallion (Androcoll-E™), enables a better sub-population of spermatozoa to be selected from stallion ejaculates. However, such a practice has not been critically evaluated in stallions with fertility problems. In this study we evaluate whether single-layer centrifugation (SLC) through Androcoll-E™ could be used to enhance fertility rates in a subfertile stallion. Ejaculates were obtained from two different stallions, one Lusitano (fertile) and one Sorraia (subfertile), with distinct sperm characteristics and fertility. Motility, morphology, plasma membrane structural (eosin-nigrosin) and functional integrity (HOS test), mitochondrial functionality (Δψm; JC-1) and longevity (motility after 72 h cooling) after centrifugation in Androcoll-E™, as well as pregnancy rates obtained after artificial insemination (AI), with and without (control group) SLC-treated sperm were assessed. The effect of SLC on sperm characteristics, and fertility results were evaluated by ANOVA and Fisher procedures, respectively. Our results showed that SLC-selected sperm did not differ from the raw semen in terms of viability, morphology, response to hypo-osmotic conditions (HOS test) and mitochondrial membrane potential (↑ΔΨmit; JC-1). Sperm motility in cooled samples was not improved by SLC treatment. Our data show that SLC through Androcoll-E™ has no effect on pregnancy rates in the stallions used in this trial.
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Ortiz I, Dorado J, Morrell JM, Crespo F, Gosálvez J, Gálvez MJ, Acha D, Hidalgo M. Effect of single-layer centrifugation or washing on frozen-thawed donkey semen quality: Do they have the same effect regardless of the quality of the sample? Theriogenology 2015; 84:294-300. [PMID: 25917884 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this study were to determine the sperm quality of frozen-thawed donkey sperm samples after single-layer centrifugation (SLC) using Androcoll-E in comparison to sperm washing or no centrifugation and to determine if the effect on the sperm quality after SLC or sperm washing depends on the quality of the sample. Frozen-thawed sperm samples from Andalusian donkeys were divided into three aliquots, and they were processed using three different techniques after thawing: uncentrifuged diluted control (UDC), sperm washing (SW), and SLC. Afterward, sperm quality index was estimated by integrating all parameters (total and progressive sperm motility, membrane integrity, and DNA fragmentation) in a single value. The relationship between the sperm quality of thawed UDC samples and the effect on sperm parameters in SW and SLC-selected samples was assessed. Sperm quality index was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in SLC (0.8 ± 0.0) samples than that in UDC (0.6 ± 0.0) and SW (0.6 ± 0.0) samples, regardless of the sperm quality index after thawing of the sperm sample. In conclusion, SLC of frozen-thawed donkey spermatozoa using Androcoll-E-Small can be a suitable procedure for selecting frozen-thawed donkey sperm with better quality, in particular in those samples where an improvement in motility is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ortiz
- Animal Reproduction Group, Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain.
| | - J Dorado
- Animal Reproduction Group, Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - J M Morrell
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Reproduction, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - F Crespo
- Department of Reproduction, Centro Militar de Cría Caballar (FESCCR-Ministry of Defense), Ávila, Spain
| | - J Gosálvez
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M J Gálvez
- Animal Reproduction Group, Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - D Acha
- Animal Reproduction Group, Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - M Hidalgo
- Animal Reproduction Group, Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
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Heutelbeck A, Oldenhof H, Rohn K, Martinsson G, Morrell JM, Sieme H. Use of density centrifugation for delayed cryopreservation of stallion sperm: perform sperm selection directly after collection or after storage? Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 50:76-83. [PMID: 25400025 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Equipment for cryopreservation of stallion sperm is not always available. In such cases, diluted semen can be shipped to a facility for later cryopreservation. The aim of this study was to evaluate if selection of sperm via density centrifugation yields higher survival rates when cryopreservation is to be delayed (i.e. carried out after 1 day of storage at 5°C). Two-layer iodixanol as well as single-layer Androcoll density centrifugation were tested and compared with samples prepared with standard centrifugation. Special emphasis was placed on comparing centrifugation on the day of semen collection with centrifugation after 1-day refrigerated storage. Sperm morphology and motility as well as membrane and chromatin integrity were evaluated before and after centrifugation. Sperm motility and membrane integrity were also assessed after cryopreservation. It was found that both two- and single-layer density centrifugation processing resulted in higher percentages of morphologically normal and motile sperm with higher membrane and chromatin integrity, as compared to standard centrifugation or diluted samples. Differences were only in the order of magnitude of 5%. Recovery rates after density centrifugation were only approximately 30-40%. When cryopreservation was carried out after 1-day refrigerated storage, centrifugation processing of sperm directly after semen collection resulted in higher percentages of plasma membrane intact sperm post-thaw as compared to performing centrifugation processing of stored sperm just prior to cryopreservation. No significant differences in progressively motile sperm post-thaw were seen. Taken together, for delayed cryopreservation, it is best to perform density centrifugation directly after collection rather than immediately prior to cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Heutelbeck
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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Morrell J, Richter J, Martinsson G, Stuhtmann G, Hoogewijs M, Roels K, Dalin AM. Pregnancy rates after artificial insemination with cooled stallion spermatozoa either with or without Single Layer Centrifugation. Theriogenology 2014; 82:1102-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2014] [Revised: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 07/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Comparison of the Effect of Heterologous and Homologous Seminal Plasma on Motility and Chromatin Integrity of Stallion Spermatozoa Selected by Single Layer Centrifugation. J Vet Med 2014; 2014:325451. [PMID: 26464926 PMCID: PMC4590871 DOI: 10.1155/2014/325451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The effect on sperm motility and chromatin integrity of adding homologous or heterologous equine seminal plasma (SP) to fresh stallion spermatozoa selected by single layer centrifugation (SLC) was studied. No statistical difference in mean progressive motility was seen after adding SP at time 0 h, although there were differences for individual stallions. The proportion of spermatozoa with high velocity was increased compared to untreated SLC-selected spermatozoa (P < 0.05), with significant differences between individuals (P < 0.01). When the SLC samples were stored for 24 h before adding SP, a significant increase in mean progressive motility was seen for SLC + homologous SP (P < 0.01) and for SLC + heterologous SP (P < 0.056). Whether homologous SP or heterologous SP had a greater effect on progressive motility depended on the individual. Adding either type of SP caused a significant increase in chromatin damage compared to SLC after storage for 24 h (homologous SP, P < 0.05; heterologous SP, P < 0.01). These preliminary data showed that storage of SLC-spermatozoa mixed with SP should be avoided because of the risk of increased chromatin damage. If SP is to be added to take advantage of a transient increase in progressive motility for a particular individual stallion, different combinations of SP and spermatozoa should be tested first to optimize the effect.
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12
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Morrell J, Georgakas A, Lundeheim N, Nash D, Davies Morel M, Johannisson A. Effect of heterologous and homologous seminal plasma on stallion sperm quality. Theriogenology 2014; 82:176-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Revised: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Ing NH, Forrest DW, Love CC, Varner DD. Dense spermatozoa in stallion ejaculates contain lower concentrations of mRNAs encoding the sperm specific calcium channel 1, ornithine decarboxylase antizyme 3, aromatase, and estrogen receptor alpha than less dense spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2014; 82:347-53. [PMID: 24857629 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Revised: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Stallions are unique among livestock in that, like men, they commonly receive medical treatment for subfertility. In both species, about 15% of individuals have normal semen parameters but are subfertile, indicating a need for novel analyses of spermatozoa function. One procedure for improving fertilizing capability of stallions and men is isolation of dense spermatozoa from an ejaculate for use in artificial insemination. In the current study, dense and less dense spermatozoa were purified by density gradient centrifugation from individual ejaculates from seven reproductively normal adult stallions. The RNA isolated from the spermatozoa seemed to be naturally fragmented to an average length of 250 bases, consistent with reports of spermatozoa RNA from other species. The DNAse treatment of RNA prepared from spermatozoa removed any genomic DNA contamination, as assessed by PCR with intron spanning primers for the protamine 1 (PRM1) gene. Concentrations of seven mRNAs in spermatozoa, correlated with the fertility of men and bulls, were quantified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in dense and less dense spermatozoa. Concentrations of four mRNAs were two- to four-fold lower in dense spermatozoa compared with less dense spermatozoa: Encoding the spermatozoa-specific calcium channel (P < 0.03), ornithine decarboxylase antizyme 3 (P < 0.02), aromatase (P < 0.02), and estrogen receptor alpha (P < 0.08). In contrast, concentrations of three other mRNAs, encoding PRM1 and heat shock proteins HSPA8 and DNAJC4, were not different (P > 0.1). These results identify new differences in mRNA concentrations in populations of spermatozoa with dissimilar densities.
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Affiliation(s)
- N H Ing
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.
| | - D W Forrest
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - C C Love
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - D D Varner
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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14
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Morrell JM, Stuhtmann G, Meurling S, Lundgren A, Winblad C, Macias Garcia B, Johannisson A. Sperm yield after single layer centrifugation with Androcoll-E is related to the potential fertility of the original ejaculate. Theriogenology 2014; 81:1005-11. [PMID: 24582376 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Revised: 01/08/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Many attempts have been made to identify laboratory tests that are predictive of sperm fertility, both to improve the quality of stallion semen doses for artificial insemination (AI) and to identify potential breeding sires if no fertility data are available. Sperm quality at the stud is mostly evaluated by assessing subjective motility, although this parameter can be poorly indicative of fertility. Sperm morphology and chromatin integrity in Swedish stallions are correlated to pregnancy rate after AI. Because single layer centrifugation (SLC) selects for spermatozoa with normal morphology and good chromatin, retrospective analysis was carried out to investigate whether sperm yield after SLC is linked to potential fertility. Commercial semen doses for AI from 24 stallions (five stallions with four ejaculates each, 19 stallions with three ejaculates each; n = 77) obtained during the breeding season were cooled, and sent overnight to the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in an insulated box for evaluation, with other doses being sent to studs for commercial AI. On arrival at Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, the semen was used for SLC and also for evaluation of sperm motility, membrane integrity, chromatin integrity, and morphology. The seasonal pregnancy rates for each stallion were available. The yield of progressively motile spermatozoa after SLC (calculated as a proportion of the initial load) was found to be highly correlated with pregnancy rate (r = 0.75; P < 0.001). Chromatin damage was highly negatively correlated with pregnancy rate (r = -0.69; P < 0.001). Pregnancy rate was also correlated with membrane integrity (r = 0.58; P < 0.01), progressive motility (r = 0.63; P < 0.01), and normal morphology (r = 0.45; P < 0.05). In conclusion, these preliminary results show that sperm yield after SLC is related to the potential fertility of the original ejaculate, and could be an alternative indicator of stallion fertility if breeding data are not available. Single layer centrifugation is fast (30 minutes) and does not require expensive equipment, whereas other assays require a flow cytometer and/or specialist skills. An additional option could be to transport semen doses to a laboratory for SLC if the stud personnel do not want to perform the procedure themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Morrell
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden.
| | | | | | - A Lundgren
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - C Winblad
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - B Macias Garcia
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - A Johannisson
- Anatomy Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
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15
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Effect of single layer centrifugation using Androcoll-E-Large on the sperm quality parameters of cooled-stored donkey semen doses. Animal 2013; 8:308-15. [PMID: 24284302 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731113002097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effect of single layer centrifugation (SLC) using Androcoll-E-Large on donkey sperm quality parameters after 24 h of cool-storage. Ejaculates were collected from Andalusian donkeys and then cooled at 5°C. SLC was carried out after 24 h of cool-storage using Androcoll-E-Large. In the first experiment, all sperm parameters assessed (total and progressive sperm motility, viability, sperm morphology and sperm kinematics VCL, VSL, VAP, LIN, STR, WOB, ALH and BCF) were statistically compared between semen samples processed or not with Androcoll-E-Large. Significant differences (P<0.05) were found between SLC-selected and unselected semen samples for all parameters assessed, obtaining better results after SLC. In the second experiment, semen samples were classified in two groups according to their sperm progressive motility (PM) before SLC. Then, the increments obtained in semen quality parameters after SLC were compared between groups. No significant differences were found between groups, indicating that SLC improved the sperm quality parameters of entire set of semen samples processed with independence to their original PM. In conclusion, SLC with Androcoll-E-Large can be used in donkeys, increasing the sperm quality of cooled-stored donkey semen doses after 24 h of cool storage.
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Dorado J, Alcaraz L, Gálvez M, Acha D, Ortiz I, Urbano M, Hidalgo M. Single-layer centrifugation through PureSperm® 80 selects improved quality spermatozoa from frozen-thawed dog semen. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 140:232-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2013] [Revised: 06/16/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Sjunnesson YCB, Morrell JM, González R. Single layer centrifugation-selected boar spermatozoa are capable of fertilization in vitro. Acta Vet Scand 2013; 55:20. [PMID: 23497680 PMCID: PMC3602148 DOI: 10.1186/1751-0147-55-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2012] [Accepted: 03/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Good quality spermatozoa are important to achieve fertilization, viable embryos and offspring. Single Layer Centrifugation (SLC) through a colloid (Androcoll-P) selects good quality spermatozoa. However, it has not been established previously whether porcine spermatozoa selected by this method maintain their fertility. Methods The semen was prepared either by SLC or by standard centrifugation (control) and used for in vitro fertilization (IVF) at oocyte:spermatozoa ratios of 1:50; 1:100 and 1:300 (or 4 x 103, 8 x 103 and 24 x 103 spermatozoa/ml) to evaluate their subsequent ability to generate blastocysts. In addition, sperm motility was assessed by computer assisted sperm motility analysis. Results Total and progressive motility were significantly higher in sperm samples prepared by SLC compared to uncentrifuged samples. Sperm binding ability, polyspermy, cleavage and blastocyst rates were affected by the oocyte:sperm ratio, but not by sperm treatment. Conclusion The use of SLC does not adversely affect the in vitro fertilizing and embryo-generating ability of the selected spermatozoa compared to their unselected counterparts, but further modifications in the IVF conditions would be needed to improve the monospermy in IVF systems. Since SLC did not appear to have a negative effect on sperm fertilizing ability, and may in fact select for spermatozoa with a greater potential for fertilization, an in vivo trial to determine the usefulness of this sperm preparation technique prior to artificial insemination is warranted.
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Restoration of seminal plasma to stallion spermatozoa selected by colloid centrifugation increases sperm progressive motility but is detrimental to chromatin integrity. Theriogenology 2012; 78:345-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2011] [Revised: 02/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Cerny KL, Hughes S, Campos JR, Coleman RJ, Troedsson MH, Squires EL. Fertility of Mares Inseminated With Frozen-Thawed Semen Processed by Single Layer Centrifugation Through a Colloid. J Equine Vet Sci 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2011.09.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Macías-García B, González-Fernández L, Gallardo-Bolaños J, Peña F, Johannisson A, Morrell J. Androcoll-E large selects a subset of live stallion spermatozoa capable of producing ROS. Anim Reprod Sci 2012; 132:74-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2012] [Revised: 03/20/2012] [Accepted: 03/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Kruse R, Dutta PC, Morrell JM. Colloid centrifugation removes seminal plasma and cholesterol from boar spermatozoa. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 23:858-65. [PMID: 21871205 DOI: 10.1071/rd10260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2011] [Accepted: 03/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of Single-Layer Centrifugation (SLC) on boar spermatozoa, namely the effect of removal of seminal plasma proteins and cholesterol from the surface of spermatozoa. The presence of porcine seminal plasma proteins I and II (PSP-I/PSP-II) before and after SLC was studied using immunofluorescence, whereas the removal of cholesterol was shown qualitatively by thin-layer chromatography (TLC). Finally, the integrity of the sperm plasma membrane was observed by electron microscopy. It was shown that the seminal plasma proteins PSP-I and -II were removed from spermatozoa during SLC but could be restored by adding seminal plasma to the SLC-selected sperm samples. Some cholesterol was also lost from the spermatozoa during SLC but the plasma membrane itself appeared to be morphologically intact. Further studies are underway to examine the relevance of these findings to boar sperm cryopreservation and sperm fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Kruse
- Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Costa AL, Martins-Bessa A, de Andrade AR, Guimarães T, Rebordão MR, Gamboa S, Bravo PP, Correia MJ, Colaço J, Gaivão I, Rocha A. Single Layer Centrifugation with Androcoll-E<sup>TM</sup> improved progressive motility and percentage of live spermatozoa with intact acrosome of chilled stallion semen but did not have an effect on DNA integrity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.4236/ojas.2012.23022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Edmond AJ, Brinsko SP, Love CC, Blanchard TL, Teague SR, Varner DD. Effect of centrifugal fractionation protocols on quality and recovery rate of equine sperm. Theriogenology 2011; 77:959-66. [PMID: 22115813 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2011] [Revised: 09/22/2011] [Accepted: 10/03/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Centrifugal fractionation of semen is commonly done to improve quality of human semen in assisted-reproduction laboratories, allowing sperm separation based on their isopycnic points. Sperm with morphologic abnormalities are often more buoyant, promoting their retention above defined density media, with structurally normal sperm passing through the media following centrifugation. Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of density-medium type, centrifuge-tube size, sperm number, and density-medium volume (column height) on stallion sperm quality and recovery rate in sperm pellets following centrifugation. In all three experiments, equine semen was initially centrifuged to increase sperm concentration. In Experiment 1, semen was layered over continuous or discontinuous gradients. For Experiment 2, semen was layered over three column heights of continuous gradients in 15- or 50-ml conical-bottom tubes. For Experiment 3, increasing sperm numbers were layered over continuous gradient in 15- or 50-ml conical-bottom tubes. Following centrifugation, sperm pellets were evaluated for sperm morphologic quality, motility, DNA integrity, and recovery rate. Centrifugal fractionation improved (P < 0.05) sperm morphology, motility, and DNA integrity, as compared to controls. The continuous gradient increased (P < 0.05) sperm recovery rate relative to the discontinuous gradient, whereas sperm processed in 15-ml tubes yielded higher velocity and higher recovery rates (P < 0.05 for each) than that processed in 50-ml tubes. Sperm recovery rate was not affected (P > 0.05) by column height of gradient. Increasing sperm number subjected to gradient centrifugation decreased (P < 0.05) sperm recovery rate when 15-ml tubes were used.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Edmond
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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Trasorras V, Giuliano S, Chaves G, Neild D, Agüero A, Carretero M, Pinto M, Baca Castex C, Alonso A, Rodríguez D, Morrell JM, Miragaya M. In vitro Embryo Production in Llamas (Lama glama) from In vivo Matured Oocytes with Raw Semen Processed with Androcoll-E using Defined Embryo Culture Media. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 47:562-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01917.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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