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Ngcobo JN, Nedambale TL, Sithole SM, Mtileni B, Mpofu TJ, Ramukhithi FV, Chokoe TC, Nephawe KA. A systematic review on the prospects of X- and Y-sexed semen in ruminant livestock: implications for conservation, a South African perspective. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1384768. [PMID: 38655533 PMCID: PMC11037082 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1384768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
South Africa is home to numerous indigenous and locally developed sheep (Nguni Pedi, Zulu, and Namaqua Afrikaner, Afrino, Africander, Bezuidenhout Africander, Damara, Dorper, Döhne Merino, Meat Master, South African Merino, South African Mutton Merino, Van Rooy, and Dorper), goat (SA veld, Tankwa, Imbuzi, Bantu, Boer, and Savanna) and cattle (Afrigus, Afrikaner, Bolowana, Bonsmara, Bovelder, Drakensberger, South African Angus, South African Dairy Swiss, South African Friesland, South African Red, and Veld Master) animals. These breeds require less veterinary service, feed, management efforts, provide income to rural and or poor owners. However, most of them are under extinction risks and some with unknown status hence, require immediate conservation intervention. To allow faster genetic progress on the endangered animals, it is important to generate productive animals while reducing wastages and this can be achieved through sex-sorted semen. Therefore, this systematic review is aimed to evaluate the prospects of X and Y-sexed semen in ruminant livestock and some solutions that can be used to address poor sex-sorted semen and its fertility. This review was incorporated through gathering and assessing relevant articles and through the data from the DAD-IS database. The keywords that were used to search articles online were pre-gender selection, indigenous ecotypes, fertility, flow cytometry, artificial insemination, conservation, and improving sexed semen. Following a careful review of all articles, PRISMA guidelines were used to find the articles that are suitable to address the aim of this review. Sex-sorted semen is a recently introduced technology gaining more attention from researchers particularly, in the conservation programs. Preselection of semen based on the sex chromosomes (X- and or Y-bearing chromosomes) is of paramount importance to obtain desired sex of the offspring and avoid animal wastage as much as possible. However, diverse factors can affect quality of semen of different animal species especially after sex-sorting. Flow cytometry is a common method used to select male and female sperm cells and discard dead and abnormal sperm cells during the process. Thus, sperm sexing is a good advanced reproductive technology (ART) however, it is associated with the production of oxidative stress (OS) and DNA fragmentation (SDF). These findings, therefore, necessitates more innovation studies to come up with a sexing technology that will protect sperm cell injuries during sorting in frozen-thawed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sindisiwe Mbali Sithole
- Germplasm, Conservation, Reproductive Biotechnologies, Agricultural Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Bohani Mtileni
- Department of Animal Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Takalani Judas Mpofu
- Department of Animal Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Tlou Caswel Chokoe
- Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, Directorate Farm Animal Genetic Resource, Pretoria, South Africa
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Quelhas J, Pinto-Pinho P, Lopes G, Rocha A, Pinto-Leite R, Fardilha M, Colaço B. Sustainable animal production: exploring the benefits of sperm sexing technologies in addressing critical industry challenges. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10. [PMID: 38076548 PMCID: PMC10704908 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1181659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The sex of the animals is of paramount importance in many animal production systems. This is particularly evident in the production of milk or in breeding programs focused on the production of female animals. In some cases, slaughter or euthanasia of animals of the unwanted sex becomes the only solution, highlighting ethical and economic concerns. As global demand for food continues to rise, the importance of addressing these issues becomes more evident. Reproductive technologies, such as sperm sexing techniques, may hold the key to addressing both animal welfare and the sustainability of animal production. The use of semen enriched with sperm capable of producing offspring of the desired sex can serve as a valuable tool for producers to exert greater control over production outcomes, not only helping to mitigate welfare issues related to the unnecessary premature death of unwanted offspring but also providing a possible ally in the face of stricter animal welfare guidelines. In addition, sexed semen can also contribute to financial gains and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and food waste associated with the less profitable part of the herd. This paper explores the positive impacts that sperm sexing can have on animal welfare, economy, and environment. It also discusses currently available options and strategies for more successful implementation of sexed semen. Partnerships between companies and scientists will be essential to find innovative ways to adapt current production systems and develop sperm sexing technologies that apply to most livestock industries.
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Souza-Fabjan JMG, Leal GR, Monteiro CAS, Batista RITP, Barbosa NO, Freitas VJF. In vitro embryo production in small ruminants: what is still missing? Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230055. [PMID: 38025995 PMCID: PMC10681138 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro embryo production (IVEP) is an extremely important tool for genetic improvement in livestock and it is the biotechnology that has grown the most recently. However, multiple ovulation followed by embryo transfer is still considered the leading biotechnology for embryo production in small ruminants. This review aimed to identify what is still missing for more efficient diffusion of IVEP in small ruminants, going through the IVEP steps and highlighting the main factors affecting the outcomes. Oocyte quality is essential for the success of IVEP and an aspect to be considered in small ruminants is their reproductive seasonality and strategies to mitigate the effect of season. The logistics for oocyte collection from live females is more complex than in cattle, and tools to simplify this collection system and/or to promote an alternative way of recovering oocytes may be an important point in this scenario. The heterogeneity of oocytes collected from growing follicles in live females or from ovaries collected from abattoirs remains a challenge, and there is a demand to standardize/homogenize the hormonal stimulatory protocols and IVM protocols for each source of oocytes. The use of sexed semen is technically possible, however the low market demand associated with the high costs of the sexing process prevents the routine use of this technique, but its higher availability is an important aspect aiming for greater dissemination of IVEP. New noninvasive approaches for embryo selection are key factors since the selection for transfer or cryopreservation is another difficulty faced among laboratories. Embryo selection is based on morphological traits, although these are not necessarily reliable in predicting pregnancy. Several issues described in this review must be considered by researchers in other to promote the diffusion of IVEP in small ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriela Ramos Leal
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Vicente José Figueirêdo Freitas
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle da Reprodução, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
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Blackburn HD, Azevedo HC, Purdy PH. Incorporation of Biotechnologies into Gene Banking Strategies to Facilitate Rapid Reconstitution of Populations. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3169. [PMID: 37893893 PMCID: PMC10603745 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
National animal gene banks that are responsible for conserving livestock, poultry, and aquatic genetic resources need to be capable of utilizing a broad array of cryotechnologies coupled with assisted reproductive technologies to reconstitute either specific animals or populations/breeds as needed. This capability is predicated upon having sufficient genetic diversity (usually encapsulated by number of animals in the collection), units of germplasm or tissues, and the ability to reconstitute animals. While the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO 2012, 2023) developed a set of guidelines for gene banks on these matters, those guidelines do not consider applications and utilization of newer technologies (e.g., primordial germ cells, cloning from somatic cells, embryo transfer, IVF, sex-sorted semen), which can radically change how gene banks collect, store, and utilize genetic resources. This paper reviews the current status of using newer technologies, explores how gene banks might make such technologies part of their routine operations, and illustrates how combining newer assisted reproductive technologies with older approaches enables populations to be reconstituted more efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey D. Blackburn
- USDA ARS National Animal Germplasm Program, 1111 S. Mason St., Fort Collins, CO 80521-4500, USA
| | | | - Phillip H. Purdy
- USDA ARS National Animal Germplasm Program, 1111 S. Mason St., Fort Collins, CO 80521-4500, USA
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Zuidema D, Kerns K, Sutovsky P. An Exploration of Current and Perspective Semen Analysis and Sperm Selection for Livestock Artificial Insemination. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3563. [PMID: 34944339 PMCID: PMC8698075 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination of livestock has been a staple technology for producers worldwide for over sixty years. This reproductive technology has allowed for the rapid improvement of livestock genetics, most notably in dairy cattle and pigs. This field has experienced continuous improvements over the last six decades. Though much work has been carried out to improve the efficiency of AI, there are still many areas which continue to experience improvement, including semen analysis procedures, sperm selection techniques, sperm sexing technologies, and semen storage methods. Additionally, the use of AI continues to grow in beef cattle, horses, and small ruminants as the technology continues to become more efficient and yield higher pregnancy rates. In this review, AI trends in the various livestock species as well as cutting edge improvements in the aforementioned areas will be discussed at length. Future work will continue to refine the protocols which are used for AI and continue to increase pregnancy rates within all livestock species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalen Zuidema
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (D.Z.); (K.K.)
| | - Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (D.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (D.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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Meijer E, Goerlich VC, van den Brom R, Giersberg MF, Arndt SS, Rodenburg TB. Perspectives for Buck Kids in Dairy Goat Farming. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:662102. [PMID: 34722689 PMCID: PMC8554305 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.662102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To start milk production, dairy goats need to give birth at least once. While most female kids are reared to become the next generation of dairy goats, only a small proportion of male kids (buck kids) are reared with reproduction aims. The market for buck kid meat, especially within Northern European countries, is currently relatively small compared to the number of bucks born. Therefore, the purposes for buck kids are limited and a substantial proportion of buck kid meat is used for pet food. Due to the limited economic value of buck kids, farmers are faced with a dilemma. Although raising bucks costs more money than it yields, the birth of kids is a prerequisite for production of milk and should be seen as an investment for business-wise healthy dairy goat farming. In that perspective, dairy goat farmers have an ethical responsibility toward buck kids, as well. In this paper, we compare various scenarios of dealing with the issue of surplus male animals. We provide recommendations for the rearing of buck kids based on the sector‘s experience and current practice in the Netherlands. Reducing the number of surplus (male) offspring, e.g., by an optimized prolonged lactation management and/or by artificial insemination with sex-sorted semen, could alleviate the issue of low value buck kids. Killing surplus animals before or directly after birth, on the other hand, is met with increasing societal scrutiny. Initiatives to propagate a market for buck kid meat for human consumption are important to enable a suitable and sustainable production system. To maintain the health and welfare of goat kids, amongst other factors, sufficient and good quality colostrum, milk, and an appropriate diet as they grow older, needs to be provided. One option to assure the safeguarding of health and welfare of all goat kids are quality assurance schemes for milk production. These schemes make dairy farmers accountable for the health and welfare of all kids in the rearing period, including the provision of colostrum and adequate care for newborn buck kids. We conclude that the combination of reducing the number of surplus kids, increasing the demand for goat products, and quality assurance schemes that may help to safeguard the welfare of buck kids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Meijer
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Vivian C Goerlich
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - René van den Brom
- Royal GD, Department of Small Ruminant Health, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - Mona F Giersberg
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Saskia S Arndt
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - T Bas Rodenburg
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Shokry DM, Abd Eldaim MA, Badr MR, Khalifa HK, Orabi SH, Hassan AM, Dohreig R. Enhancement impact of Moringa oleifera leaves extract–base extender on cryopreservation and fertilization of Barki ram sperms: comparative study with vitamin E and selenium combination. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2021.1953411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dina M. Shokry
- Department of Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Animal Reproduction Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mabrouk Attia Abd Eldaim
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Menoufia University, Sheben Elkom, Egypt
| | - Magdy R. Badr
- Department of Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Animal Reproduction Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hanem K. Khalifa
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Egypt
| | - Sahar H. Orabi
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Egypt
| | - Aziza M. Hassan
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ragab Dohreig
- Department of Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Animal Reproduction Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt
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Ren F, Xi H, Ren Y, Li Y, Wen F, Xian M, Zhao M, Zhu D, Wang L, Lei A, Hu J. TLR7/8 signalling affects X-sperm motility via the GSK3 α/β-hexokinase pathway for the efficient production of sexed dairy goat embryos. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2021; 12:89. [PMID: 34340711 PMCID: PMC8330071 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-021-00613-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Goat milk is very similar to human milk in terms of its abundant nutrients and ease of digestion. To derive greater economic benefit, farmers require more female offspring (does); however, the buck-to-doe offspring sex ratio is approximately 50%. At present, artificial insemination after the separation of X/Y sperm using flow cytometry is the primary means of controlling the sex of livestock offspring. However, flow cytometry has not been successfully utilised for the separation of X/Y sperm aimed at sexing control in dairy goats. Results In this study, a novel, simple goat sperm sexing technology that activates the toll-like receptor 7/8 (TLR7/8), thereby inhibiting X-sperm motility, was investigated. Our results showed that the TLR7/8 coding goat X-chromosome was expressed in approximately 50% of round spermatids in the testis and sperm, as measured from cross-sections of the epididymis and ejaculate, respectively. Importantly, TLR7/8 was located at the tail of the X-sperm. Upon TLR7/8 activation, phosphorylated forms of glycogen synthase kinase α/β (GSK3 α/β) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) were detected in the X-sperm, causing reduced mitochondrial activity, ATP levels, and sperm motility. High-motility Y-sperm segregated to the upper layer and the low-motility X-sperm, to the lower layer. Following in vitro fertilisation using the TLR7/8-activated sperm from the lower layer, 80.52 ± 6.75% of the embryos were XX females. The TLR7/8-activated sperm were subsequently used for in vivo embryo production via the superovulatory response; nine embryos were collected from the uterus of two does that conceived. Eight of these were XX embryos, and one was an XY embryo. Conclusions Our study reveals a novel TLR7/8 signalling mechanism that affects X-sperm motility via the GSK3 α/β-hexokinase pathway; this technique could be used to facilitate the efficient production of sexed dairy goat embryos. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40104-021-00613-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa Ren
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Huaming Xi
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Yijie Ren
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Wen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Xian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengjie Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Dawei Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Liqiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Anmin Lei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jianhong Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China.
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Akourki A, Echegaray A, Perdomo O, Escartin NA, Guillén M. Effects of Gossypium spp., Balanites aegyptiaca, and Sesamum indicum seeds oils on quality of chilled and frozen-thawed ram semen. Vet World 2021; 14:1412-1419. [PMID: 34316186 PMCID: PMC8304443 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.1412-1419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Essential oils found frequently in plants are well known for their activities against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and antioxidant properties. This study aimed to analyze egg yolk replacement by seed oils of Gossypium spp. (cotton), Balanites aegyptiaca (desert date), and Sesamum indicum (sesame) in semen extender, on ram sperm quality chilled at 4°C and frozen-thawed. Materials and Methods: Ejaculates were collected from adult rams and refrigerated at 4°C in a Tris-based extender containing 1.25%, 2.5%, 5%, and 10% of Gossypium spp., B. aegyptiaca, and S. indicum seed oils, to evaluate which were the two best extenders for comparison with BIOXcell, a commercial extender for deep freezing ram semen. Results: The data showed that sperm movements analyzed by the CASA system were faster in extenders supplemented with 2.5-5% of cottonseed oil and 1.25-10% of sesame oil, whereas in the extender containing B. aegyptiaca oil, all seminal parameters studied had the worst values. During the sperm-freezing process, 5% of cottonseed oil and 5% sesame seed oil were selected from the first study, with sesame oil reaching the best sperm quality. Thus, sperm motility and velocity were 44.14±13.99%, 24.44±12.6%, and 25.92±11.50%; and 20.26±9.56%, 8.76±6.38%, and 9.42±5.40%, respectively, for sesame oil, cottonseed oil, and BIOXcell. Conclusion: In summary, 2.5-10% of cottonseed oil and 1.25-10% of sesame seed oil can replace egg yolk in a Tris–egg yolk–based extender. Moreover, a Tris-based extender supplemented with 5% sesame seed oil could be an alternative for deep freezing ram semen, even though these results need to be confirmed with semen collected from rams with appropriate sexual rest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adamou Akourki
- Enseignant Chercheur, Université Dan Dicko Dankoulodo de Maradi, BP: 465 Maradi, Niger
| | - Arantxa Echegaray
- Departamento de Reproducción animal del HUMECO, C/Mecanica 11. 22006 Huesca. Spain
| | - Orlando Perdomo
- Departamento de Reproducción animal del HUMECO, C/Mecanica 11. 22006 Huesca. Spain
| | | | - Marta Guillén
- Departamento de Reproducción animal del HUMECO, C/Mecanica 11. 22006 Huesca. Spain
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Neculai-Valeanu AS, Ariton AM. Game-Changing Approaches in Sperm Sex-Sorting: Microfluidics and Nanotechnology. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041182. [PMID: 33924241 PMCID: PMC8074747 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sexing of sperm cells, including the capacity to preselect the sex of offspring prior to reproduction, has been a major target of reproductive biotechnology for a very long time. The advances in molecular biology, biophysics, and computer science over the past few decades, as well as the groundbreaking new methods introduced by scientists, have contributed to some major breakthroughs in a variety of branches of medicine. In particular, assisted reproduction is one of the areas in which emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and microfluidics may enhance the fertility potential of samples of sex-sorted semen, thus improving the reproductive management of farm animals and conservation programs. In human medicine, embryo sex-selection using in vitro fertilization (IVF) and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is accepted only for medical reasons. Using sex-sorting before IVF would enable specialists to prevent sex-linked genetic diseases and prevent the discharge of embryos which are not suitable for transfer due to their sex. Abstract The utilization of sex-sorted sperm for artificial insemination and in-vitro fertilization is considered a valuable tool for improving production efficiency and optimizing reproductive management in farm animals, subsequently ensuring sufficient food resource for the growing human population. Despite the fact that sperm sex-sorting is one of the most intense studied technologies and notable progress have been made in the past three decades to optimize it, the conception rates when using sex-sorted semen are still under expectations. Assisted reproduction programs may benefit from the use of emergent nano and microfluidic-based technologies. This article addresses the currently used methods for sperm sex-sorting, as well as the emerging ones, based on nanotechnology and microfluidics emphasizing on their practical and economic applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andra-Sabina Neculai-Valeanu
- Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding Dancu, 707252 Iasi, Romania;
- Department of Fundamental Sciences in Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, University of Applied Life Sciences and Environment “Ion Ionescu de la Brad”, 700490 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Adina Mirela Ariton
- Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding Dancu, 707252 Iasi, Romania;
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González-Marín C, Góngora CE, Moreno JF, Vishwanath R. Small ruminant SexedULTRA™ sperm sex-sorting: Status report and recent developments. Theriogenology 2021; 162:67-73. [PMID: 33444918 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.12.028] [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: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Flow cytometry sperm sex-sorting based on the relative DNA difference between X- and Y-chromosome bearing populations is an established method that has allowed the production of pre-sexed offspring in a multitude of species and has been a commercial success in cattle production for the past twenty years. Several improvements to the technology and the processing methods have increased the sorting efficiency of ejaculates and the post-thaw quality of sex-sorted sperm, allowing for the fertility gap between conventional (non-sorted) and SexedULTRA™ sex-sorted sperm to be bridged. Small ruminant industries are now progressively testing sex-sorted sperm for application in their specific niches and environments. A review of the key advances and the recent developments in caprine, ovine and cervine sperm sex-sorting technology are described in this publication.
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Affiliation(s)
- C González-Marín
- Sexing Technologies, 22575 State Hwy 6 S, Navasota, TX, 77868, USA.
| | - C E Góngora
- Sexing Technologies, 22575 State Hwy 6 S, Navasota, TX, 77868, USA
| | - J F Moreno
- Sexing Technologies, 22575 State Hwy 6 S, Navasota, TX, 77868, USA
| | - R Vishwanath
- Sexing Technologies, 22575 State Hwy 6 S, Navasota, TX, 77868, USA
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12
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Silva E, Vieira J, Nery I, Silva RA, Lima V, Guerra M. Sorting and cryopreservation of goat sperm with or without phenolic compounds. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-11354] [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 The objectives of this study were to evaluate goat sperm sorting in continuous Percoll® density gradients and gamete freezability, in the presence or absence of phenolic antioxidants. For this, semen pools were sorted, frozen, and evaluated. The non-selected group (NSg) presented lower progressive motility (PM), linearity (LIN), straightness (STR), and wobble (WOB) than the selected groups, and straight line velocity (VSL) compared to those with catechin or resveratrol. The amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) was higher in NSg, and quercetin reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). After thawing, the NSg presented lower PM than the selected groups, VSL and VAP (average path velocity) than the selected group with or without catechin, LIN and WOB than the selected with or without catechin or resveratrol, and STR than the selected with catechin. Moreover, NSg presented higher ALH and BCF than the samples selected with or without catechin. Plasma membrane integrity and intact and living cells were higher in the selected groups, and MMP was lower in the NSg and the selected group with quercetin. Thus, centrifugation in Percoll® continuous density gradients is a viable methodology to select goat sperm compatible with the freezing, especially in the presence of catechin or resveratrol.
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Affiliation(s)
- E.C.B. Silva
- Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - V.F.M.H. Lima
- Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Brazil
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Barkalina N, Jones C, Coward K. Nanomedicine and mammalian sperm: Lessons from the porcine model. Theriogenology 2015; 85:74-82. [PMID: 26116055 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Biomedical nanotechnology allows us to engineer versatile nanosized platforms that are comparable in size to biological molecules and intracellular organelles. These platforms can be loaded with large amounts of biological cargo, administered systemically and act at a distance, target specific cell populations, undergo intracellular internalization via endogenous uptake mechanisms, and act as contrast agents or release cargo for therapeutic purposes. Over recent years, nanomaterials have been increasingly viewed as favorable candidates for intragamete delivery. Particularly in the case of sperm, nanomaterial-based approaches have been shown to improve the efficacy of existing techniques such as sperm-mediated gene transfer, loading sperm with exogenous proteins, and tagging sperm for subsequent sex- or function-based sorting. In this short review, we provide an outline of the current state of nanotechnology for biomedical applications in reproductive biology and present highlights from a series of our studies evaluating the use of specialized silica nanoparticles in boar sperm as a potential delivery vehicle into mammalian gametes. The encouraging data obtained already from the porcine model in our laboratory have formed the basis for ethical approval of similar experiments in human sperm, thereby bringing us a step closer toward the potential use of this novel technology in the clinical environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Barkalina
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Recent advances on synchronization of ovulation in goats, out of season, for a more sustainable production. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/s2305-0500(15)30014-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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