1
|
Gonzalez-Castro RA, Peña FJ, Herickhoff LA. Spermatozoa cooled to 5°C one day after collection from porcine commercial semen doses retain sperm functionality with reduced bacterial load. Andrology 2024; 12:186-197. [PMID: 37058577 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Commercial porcine semen is stored at 17°C, leading to a reduction of sperm quality and increase of bacterial growth. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of 5°C storage on porcine sperm functionality cooled one day after collection. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semen doses (n = 40) were transported at 17°C and cooled at 5°C one day after collection. Spermatozoa were evaluated at Days 1, 4, and 7 for motility, viability, acrosome integrity, membrane stability, intracellular zinc, oxidative stress, and bacterial growth. RESULTS Contaminated semen doses predominantly exhibited Serratia marcescens, with increasing bacterial load during 17°C storage. Under hypothermal storage, negative doses for bacteria growth at Day 1 remained negative, and bacterial load did not increase in bacterial contaminated samples. Motility was significantly reduced through 17°C storage, but at 5°C, motility was only reduced at Day 4. Samples with bacterial growth (35.0%, 14/40) had significantly reduced motility at 17°C, but motility was unaltered at 5°C. Plasma membrane and acrosome integrity without bacterial contamination were unaffected at 17°C, but were significantly reduced at 5°C on Day 7. Plasma membrane and acrosome integrity significantly decreased with bacterial contamination regardless of temperature. High mitochondrial activity in viable spermatozoa without bacteria was not altered by temperature, but was significantly reduced by bacterial contamination at 17°C. Membrane stability was significantly reduced at Day 4, but tended (p = 0.07) to be higher in samples without bacterial growth. Viable spermatozoa exhibiting high zinc were significantly reduced throughout storage regardless of temperature. Oxidative stress levels were not altered, but significantly increased with bacterial contamination at 17°C. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Porcine spermatozoa cooled to 5°C one day after collection retain functional attributes similar to spermatozoa stored at 17°C, but have a reduced bacterial load. Cooling extended boar semen to 5°C is feasible after transport to avoid modifying semen production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raul A Gonzalez-Castro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
- Membrane Protective Technologies Inc., Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Fernando J Peña
- Department of Animal Medicine, Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Shepherd MJ, Herickhoff LA. A novel experimental design for boar sperm cryopreservation. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6586253. [PMID: 35575130 PMCID: PMC9271989 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of sperm is a routine technology in many livestock species, but not in swine. Frozen sperm must result in acceptable conception rates and produce 11-12 piglets/litter to be competitive with traditional cooled semen. The development of an extender that results in high post-thaw sperm quality and acceptable litter size requires identification of factors that markedly impact post-thaw semen quality. The present study aims to first identify factors in boar sperm cryopreservation that significantly impacts post-thaw sperm quality using an efficient, cost-effective, and relatively rapid approach. The Plackett-Burman experimental design is ideal for the screening of factors at their extreme, greatly reducing the amount of time and resources needed for a follow-up, full factorial design. Using commercial semen, a 9 factor, 12 run Plackett-Burman design was used on 10 boars split between 12 treatments. Via this method glycerol concentration, cooling rate, antioxidant supplementation with GameteGuard(Membrane Protective Technologies, Inc. Fort Collins, CO), and straw size were identified as highly influential factors that impact post-thaw sperm quality. Extender type, starting osmolality, sodium dodecyl sulfate addition, and stepwise addition of glycerol were also influential for some but not all post-thaw sperm parameters (p<0.05). Equilibration time in the straws before freezing was determined to have no impact on post thaw sperm quality parameters. Using the Plackett-Burman design, it can be concluded that four of the nine factors warrant detailed investigation in a full factorial experiments in development of boar sperm cryopreservation extenders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Myles J Shepherd
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins - CO 80526 USA.,Membrane Protective Technologies Inc. Fort Collins, CO 80524 USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Menezes TDA, Bustamante-Filho IC, Paschoal AFL, Dalberto PF, Bizarro CV, Bernardi ML, Ulguim RDR, Bortolozzo FP, Mellagi APG. Differential seminal plasma proteome signatures of boars with high and low resistance to hypothermic semen preservation at 5°C. Andrology 2021; 8:1907-1922. [PMID: 33460278 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypothermic storage at 5°C has been investigated as an alternative to promote the prudent use of antibiotics for boar artificial insemination doses. However, this temperature is challenging for some ejaculates or boars. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to identify putative biomarkers for semen resistance to hypothermic storage at 5°C by comparing the seminal plasma proteomes of boars with high and low seminal resistance to preservation at 5°C. MATERIALS AND METHODS From an initial group of 34 boars, 15 were selected based on the following criteria: ejaculate with ≤20% abnormal spermatozoa and at least 70% progressive motility at 120 hours of storage at 17°C. Then, based on the response to semen hypothermic storage at 5°C, boars were classified into two categories: high resistance-progressive motility of >75% in the three collections (n = 3); and low resistance-progressive motility of <75% in the three collections (n = 3). Seminal plasma proteins were analyzed in pools, and differential proteomics was performed using Multidimensional Protein Identification Technology. RESULTS Progressive motility was lower at 120 hours of storage in low resistance, compared to high resistance boars (P < .05). Acrosome and plasma membrane integrity were not affected by the boar category, storage time, or their interaction (P ≥ .104). Sixty-five proteins were considered for differential proteomics. Among the differentially expressed and exclusive proteins, the identification of proteins such cathepsin B, legumain, and cystatin B suggests significant changes in key enzymes (eg, metalloproteinases) involved in spermatogenesis, sperm integrity, and fertilizing potential. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Differences in the seminal plasma suggest that proteins involved in the proteolytic activation of metalloproteinases and proteins related to immune response modulation could disrupt key cellular pathways during spermatogenesis and epididymal maturation, resulting in altered resistance to chilling injury. Further in vivo studies focusing on the immunological crosstalk between epithelial cells and gametes might explain how the immune regulators influence sperm resistance to hipothermic storage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tila de Alcantara Menezes
- Setor de Suínos, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | | - Pedro Ferrari Dalberto
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Cristiano Valim Bizarro
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Mari Lourdes Bernardi
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Agronomia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Rafael da Rosa Ulguim
- Setor de Suínos, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Passarelli MDS, Pinoti Pavaneli AP, Mouro Ravagnani G, Pasini Martins M, Pedrosa AC, Maria Massami Kitamura Martins S, Rocha NRA, Bittar Rigo VH, Yasui G, Yeste M, de Andrade AFC. Effects of different equilibration times at 5 °C on boar sperm cryotolerance. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 219:106547. [PMID: 32828392 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Equilibration time (ET) is the period during which sperm cells are in contact with cooling/freezing media components at a temperature of 5 °C, providing a proper osmotic balance between the intra- and extra-cellular milieu. The present study aimed to determine the ET (0, 2, and 4 h) that results in greater post-thaw sperm quality and functions. Based on the post-thaw sperm membrane integrity and motility ratios, 20 ejaculates collected from five boars were classified as having good (GFE, n = 5) or poor (PFE, n = 15) freezing capacity. Ratios of post-thaw sperm with intact plasma membrane and acrosome were similar between ET (0 h: 37.02 % ± 2.85 %; 2 h: 34.59 % ± 7.12 %; 4 h: 37.87 % ± 4.44 %) in GFE samples. In PFE, ratios of sperm with intact plasma membrane and acrosome at post-thaw were greater (P < 0.05) after an ET of 2 h than after an ET of 0 h (2 h: 26.16 % ± 1.54 % and 0 h: 16.74 % ± 1.59 %). Also, ratios of post-thaw sperm with relatively lesser membrane lipids disorder were greater (P < 0.05) after an ET of 2 h than for other ET in both GFE (2 h: 21.97 % ± 4.24 % and 0 h: 16.63 % ± 2.38 %) and PFE (2 h: 16.65 % ± 1.40 % and 0 h: 13.23 % ± 1.25 %) samples. In conclusion, an ET of 2 h results in greater sperm cryotolerance in both GFE and PFE samples, which suggests that modifying the freezing protocol lead to an increase post-thaw sperm function and survival.
Collapse
|
5
|
Paschoal AFL, Luther AM, Jäkel H, Scheinpflug K, Mühldorfer K, P Bortolozzo F, Waberski D. Determination of a cooling-rate frame for antibiotic-free preservation of boar semen at 5°C. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234339. [PMID: 32516324 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypothermic storage of boar semen provides the possibility to omit antibiotics from semen extenders so long as sperm quality is maintained and bacterial growth prevented. The objective of this study was to determine an optimal cooling-rate frame for boar semen preserved at 5°C in an antibiotic-free extender. Semen from eight boars extended in AndroStar® Premium was cooled from 30°C to 5°C using seven different cooling rates, ranging initially from 0.01 to 0.36°C min–1 and reaching 5°C between 2 h and 24 h after dilution. Sperm motility, membrane integrity, membrane fluidity, mitochondrial membrane potential and the response to the capacitation stimulus bicarbonate remained at a high level for 144 h at 5°C when the semen was initially cooled in a cooling-rate frame ranging from 0.01 to 0.09°C min‑1 in the temperature zone from 30 to 25°C, followed by 0.02 to 0.06°C min–1 to 10°C and 0.01 to 0.02°C min‑1 to the final storage temperature. A cooling rate of 0.07°C min–1 in the temperature zone from 30 to 10°C led to a reduced response to bicarbonate (P < 0.01) and fast cooling to 5°C within 1 h with a cooling rate of 0.31°C min–1 resulted in lower values (P > 0.05) of all sperm parameters. In a further experiment, slow cooling with a holding time of 6 h at 22°C induced after 6 h storage a temporary increase in Escherichia coli of 0.5 × 103 to 2.4 × 103 CFU mL–1 in the sperm-free inoculated extender. Overall, the load of mesophilic bacteria in the stored semen was below 6 × 103 CFU mL–1, a level that is not regarded as critical for sperm quality. In conclusion, appropriate cooling protocols were established for the antibiotic-free storage of boar semen at 5°C, allowing the application of hypothermic preservation in research and in artificial insemination.
Collapse
|
6
|
Stuart CC, Vaughan JL, Kershaw CM, de Graaf SP, Bathgate R. Effect of diluent type, cryoprotectant concentration, storage method and freeze/thaw rates on the post-thaw quality and fertility of cryopreserved alpaca spermatozoa. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12826. [PMID: 31492923 PMCID: PMC6731240 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49203-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [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: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study compared protocols for cryopreservation of ejaculated, papain-treated alpaca spermatozoa. This included different concentrations of egg yolk (EY; 5, 10 or 15%) and glycerol (2, 5 or 10%), diluent types (SHOTOR, lactose, skim milk or INRA-96™), freeze rates (2, 4 or 8 cm above liquid nitrogen; LN), thaw rates (37 °C for 1 min or 42 °C for 20 sec) and storage vessels (pellets, 0.25 mL straws or 0.5 mL straws). Spermatozoa were assessed pre-freeze and 0, 30, 60 and 90 min post-thaw. Forty-one hembras were inseminated with either fresh, papain-treated or frozen-thawed spermatozoa. Motility was affected by EY concentration (P < 0.001), diluent type (P < 0.001), freeze rate (P = 0.003) and storage vessel (P = 0.001). Viability was affected by EY concentration (P < 0.001), diluent type (P < 0.001), storage vessel (P = 0.002) and thaw rate (P = 0.03). For artificial insemination (AI), semen was diluted 1:3 in a lactose-based diluent, with 5% EY and glycerol. Freezing was in 0.5 mL straws, 2 cm above LN for 4 min then thawing at 37 °C for 1 min. Pregnancy rates of those ovulated (n = 26) were not different (1/5 fresh, 1/4 papain-treated, 0/17 frozen-thawed; P = 0.10). Pregnancy can be achieved after AI with papain-treated spermatozoa. Further work is needed to determine the optimal dose, timing and location for insemination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C C Stuart
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - J L Vaughan
- Cria Genesis, PO Box 406, Ocean Grove, VIC 3226, Australia
| | - C M Kershaw
- Department of Animal Production, Welfare and Veterinary Sciences, Harper Adams University, Shropshire, UK
| | - S P de Graaf
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - R Bathgate
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pezo F, Romero F, Zambrano F, Sánchez RS. Preservation of boar semen: An update. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54:423-434. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Pezo
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Molecular Endocrinology Center of Translational Medicine—Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT‐BIOREN) Temuco Chile
| | - Fernando Romero
- Laboratory of Neurosciences and Peptides Center for Biotechnology in Reproduction—Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR‐BIOREN) Temuco Chile
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Universidad de La Frontera Temuco Chile
| | - Fabiola Zambrano
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Molecular Endocrinology Center of Translational Medicine—Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT‐BIOREN) Temuco Chile
- Laboratory of Neurosciences and Peptides Center for Biotechnology in Reproduction—Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR‐BIOREN) Temuco Chile
| | - Raúl Segundo Sánchez
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Molecular Endocrinology Center of Translational Medicine—Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT‐BIOREN) Temuco Chile
- Laboratory of Neurosciences and Peptides Center for Biotechnology in Reproduction—Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR‐BIOREN) Temuco Chile
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yeste M, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Bonet S. Artificial insemination with frozen-thawed boar sperm. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:802-813. [PMID: 28608609 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [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: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Artificial insemination with frozen-thawed semen in pigs is not a routine technique; its use is restricted to specific cases, such as preservation of valuable genetic material (germplasm banks), safety strategies in case of natural disasters, long-distance transport of sperm, and in combination with sex-sorting. Cryoinjuries resulting from freeze-thawing protocols are a major concern with regard to the fertilization capacity of the treated sperm, which is lower than that of liquid-stored semen. Here, we provide an overview of artificial insemination using cryopreserved sperm, and summarize the factors that influence cryopreservation success before, during, and after freeze-thaw (i.e., sperm selection before starting the cryopreservation process, holding time, use of cryoprotectants, and rates of freezing and thawing) and that are driving the identification of biomarkers to predict sensitivity to cryodamage. Three different artificial insemination techniques (conventional or intracervical; intrauterine; and deep intrauterine) are also discussed with regards to their relevance when using frozen-thawed semen. Finally, we review the use of additives to freezing and thawing media, given reports that they may maintain and improve the quality and fertilizing capacity of frozen-thawed sperm. In sum, artificial insemination with frozen-thawed boar sperm can provide reasonable fertility outcomes, if freezable ejaculates, specific additives, and appropriate insemination techniques are used.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Joan E Rodríguez-Gil
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous, University of Barcelona, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Alkmin DV, Parrilla I, Tarantini T, Del Olmo D, Vazquez JM, Martinez EA, Roca J. Seminal plasma affects sperm sex sorting in boars. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:556-64. [PMID: 25163401 DOI: 10.1071/rd14088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Two experiments were conducted in boar semen samples to evaluate how both holding time (24h) and the presence of seminal plasma (SP) before sorting affect sperm sortability and the ability of sex-sorted spermatozoa to tolerate liquid storage. Whole ejaculate samples were divided into three aliquots immediately after collection: one was diluted (1:1, v/v) in Beltsville thawing solution (BTS; 50% SP); the SP of the other two aliquots was removed and the sperm pellets were diluted with BTS + 10% of their own SP (10% SP) or BTS alone (0% SP). The three aliquots of each ejaculate were divided into two portions, one that was processed immediately for sorting and a second that was sorted after 24h storage at 15-17°C. In the first experiment, the ability to exhibit well-defined X- and Y-chromosome-bearing sperm peaks (split) in the cytometry histogram and the subsequent sorting efficiency were assessed (20 ejaculates). In contrast with holding time, the SP proportion influenced the parameters examined, as evidenced by the higher number of ejaculates exhibiting split and better sorting efficiency (P<0.05) in semen samples with 0-10% SP compared with those with 50% SP. In a second experiment, the quality (viability, total and progressive motility) and functionality (plasma membrane fluidity and intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species) of sex-sorted spermatozoa were evaluated after 0, 72 and 120h storage at 15-17°C (10 ejaculates). Holding time and SP proportion did not influence the quality or functionality of stored sex-sorted spermatozoa. In conclusion, a holding time as long as 24h before sorting did not negatively affect sex sorting efficiency or the ability of sorted boar spermatozoa to tolerate long-term liquid storage. A high proportion of SP (50%) in the semen samples before sorting reduced the number of ejaculates to be sorted and negatively influenced the sorting efficiency, but did not affect the ability of sex-sorted spermatozoa to tolerate liquid storage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego V Alkmin
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Veterinary Medicine, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Veterinary Medicine, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Tatiana Tarantini
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Veterinary Medicine, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - David Del Olmo
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Veterinary Medicine, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan M Vazquez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Veterinary Medicine, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Emilio A Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Veterinary Medicine, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Veterinary Medicine, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Roca J, Parrilla I, Gil M, Cuello C, Martinez E, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Non-viable sperm in the ejaculate: Lethal escorts for contemporary viable sperm. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 169:24-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [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: 11/30/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
11
|
Knox RV. The Fertility of Frozen Boar Sperm When used for Artificial Insemination. Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 50 Suppl 2:90-7. [PMID: 26174925 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
One of the limits to practical use of frozen boar sperm involves the lowered fertility when used for artificial insemination. Years of studies have shown that 5-6 billion sperm (approximately 3 billion viable) used in single or multiple inseminations results in pregnancy rates most often between 60 and 70% and with litter sizes between nine and 10 pigs. Yet today, it is not uncommon for studies to report pregnancy rates from 70 to 85% and litter sizes with 11-12 pigs. While global statements about the incidence and reasons for higher fertility are not conclusive, incremental fertility improvements appear independently associated with use of a minimum number of viable sperm (1-2 billion), insemination timing that increases the probability that sperm will be present close to ovulation for groups of females, selection for boar sperm survival following cryopreservation, and modification of the freeze and thaw conditions using additives to protect sperm from oxidative damage. Studies show that techniques such as intrauterine and deep uterine insemination can provide an opportunity to reduce sperm numbers and that control of time of ovulation in groups of females can reduce the need for multiple inseminations and improve the chance for AI close to ovulation. However, optimal and consistent fertility with cryopreserved boar sperm may require a multifaceted approach that includes boar selection and screening, strategic use of additives during the freezing and thawing process, post-thaw evaluation of sperm and adjustments in sperm numbers for AI, assessment of female fertility and ovulation induction for single insemination. These sequenced procedures should be developed and incorporated into a quality control system for improved fertility when using minimal numbers of cryopreserved boar sperm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R V Knox
- University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yeste M. Recent Advances in Boar Sperm Cryopreservation: State of the Art and Current Perspectives. Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 50 Suppl 2:71-9. [PMID: 26174922 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
While sperm cryopreservation is the best technology to store boar semen for long-term periods, only 1% of all artificial inseminations (AI) conducted worldwide are made using frozen-thawed boar sperm. With the emergence of long-term extenders for liquid storage, the use of cryopreserved sperm in routine AI is less required. However, banks of boar semen contain cryopreserved sperm and planning inseminations in AI centres may benefit from the use of frozen-thawed semen. Therefore, there is an interest in the use of this technology to preserve boar sperm. In this regard, although the first attempts to cryopreserve boar semen date back to the seventies and this technology is still considered as optimal, some relevant improvements have been made in the last decade. After giving a general picture about boar sperm cryodamage, the present review seeks to shed light on these recent cryopreservation advances. These contributions regard to protein markers for predicting ejaculate freezability, sperm selection prior to start cryopreservation procedures, additives to freezing and thawing extenders, relevance of the AI-technique and insemination-to-ovulation interval. In conclusion, most of these progresses have allowed counteracting better boar sperm cryodamage and are thus considered as forward steps for this storage method. It is also worth noting that, despite being lower than fresh/extended semen, reproductive performance outcomes following AI with frozen-thawed boar sperm are currently acceptable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Yeste
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yeste M. Sperm cryopreservation update: Cryodamage, markers, and factors affecting the sperm freezability in pigs. Theriogenology 2015; 85:47-64. [PMID: 26506124 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.09.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Revised: 09/20/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation is the most efficient method for long-term preservation of mammalian sperm. However, freeze-thawing procedures may strongly impair the sperm function and survival and thus decrease the reproductive performance. In addition, the sperm resilience to withstand cryopreservation, also known as freezability, presents a high individual variability. The present work summarizes the principles of cryoinjury and the relevance of permeating and nonpermeating cryoprotective agents. Descriptions about sperm cryodamage are mainly focused on boar sperm, but reference to other mammalian species is also made when relevant. Main cryoinjuries not only regard to sperm motility and membrane integrity, but also to the degradation effect exerted by freeze-thawing on other important components for sperm fertilizing ability, such as mRNAs. After delving into the main differences between good and poor freezability boar ejaculates, those protein markers predicting the sperm ability to sustain cryopreservation are also mentioned. Moreover, factors that may influence sperm freezability, such as season, diet, breed, or ejaculate fractions are discussed, together with the effects of different additives, like seminal plasma and antioxidants. After briefly referring to the effects of long-term sperm preservation in frozen state and the reproductive performance of frozen-thawed boar sperm, this work speculates with new research horizons on the preservation of boar sperm, such as vitrification and freeze-drying.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Yeste
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Athurupana R, Ioki S, Funahashi H. Rapid thawing and stabilizing procedure improve postthaw survival and in vitro penetrability of boar spermatozoa cryopreserved with a glycerol-free trehalose-based extender. Theriogenology 2015; 84:940-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 03/30/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
15
|
Barranco I, Rubér M, Perez-Patiño C, Atikuzzaman M, Martinez EA, Roca J, Rodriguez-Martinez H. The Seminal Plasma of the Boar is Rich in Cytokines, with Significant Individual and Intra-Ejaculate Variation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2015; 74:523-32. [PMID: 26412440 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The boar, as human, sequentially ejaculates sperm-rich and sperm-poor fractions. Seminal plasma (SP) spermadhesins (PSP-I/PSP-II) induce a primary endometrial inflammatory response in female sows, similar to that elicited by semen deposition in other species, including human. However, the SP is also known to mitigate such response, making it transient to allow for embryo entry to a cleansed endometrium. Although cytokine involvement has been claimed, the exploration of cytokines in different SP fractions is scarce. This study determines Th1, Th2, Th17 and Th3 cytokine profiles in specific ejaculate SP fractions from boars of proven fertility. METHODS SP samples from the sperm-rich fraction (SRF) and the sperm-poor post-SRF fraction (post-SRF) of manually collected ejaculates from eight boars (four ejaculates per boar) were analysed by commercial multiplex bead assay kits (Milliplex MAP, Millipore, USA) for interferon-γ, interferon gamma-induced protein 10, macrophage-derived chemokine, growth-regulated oncogene, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, monocyte chemo-attractant protein-1, interleukins (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-15, IL-17 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-β3. RESULTS Cytokine concentrations differed between the ejaculate fractions among boars, being highest in the post-SRF. CONCLUSION Boar SP is rich in Th1, Th2, Th17 and Th3 cytokines, with lowest concentrations in the sperm-peak-containing fraction, indicating its main immune influence might reside in the larger, protein-rich sperm-poor post-SRF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Barranco
- Department of Medicine & Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Marie Rubér
- Department of Clinical & Experimental Medicine, University of Linköping, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Mohammad Atikuzzaman
- Department of Clinical & Experimental Medicine, University of Linköping, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Emilio A Martinez
- Department of Medicine & Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine & Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Rodenas C, Parrilla I, Roca J, Martinez EA, Lucas X. Effects of rapid cooling prior to freezing on the quality of canine cryopreserved spermatozoa. J Reprod Dev 2014; 60:355-61. [PMID: 25047548 PMCID: PMC4219992 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2014-024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of rapid cooling prior to freezing on frozen-thawed canine sperm quality.
In experiment 1, centrifuged ejaculates from 6 dogs were pooled, split into 4 aliquots and cryopreserved by the Uppsala
procedure using different cooling rates (control, cooling speed 18 C/90 min and average cooling rate 0.2 C/min; rapid,
cooling speed 18 C/8 min and average cooling rate 2.25 C/min) in combination with 2 glycerol addition protocols (fractionated
or unfractionated). In experiment 2, centrifuged ejaculates from 4 dogs were processed individually using the same cooling
rates described in experiment 1 in combination with an unfractionated glycerol addition protocol. Each of the experiments was
replicated 5 times. Sperm quality was evaluated after 30 and 150 min of post-thawing incubation at 38 C. Total motility (TM),
progressive motility (PM) and quality of movement parameters were assessed using a computerized system, and sperm viability
(spermatozoa with intact plasma and acrosome membranes) was assessed using flow cytometry (H-42/PI/FITC-PNA). Values for TM,
PM, viable spermatozoa and the quality of movement parameters after thawing were not significantly affected by the cooling
rate. The interaction between the cooling rate and the added glycerol protocol was not significant. There were significant
differences among the males (P<0.01) in the sperm quality parameters evaluated after thawing. The interaction between the
males and the cooling rate was not significant. In conclusion, canine spermatozoa can be cryopreserved using the Uppsala
method at an average cooling rate of 2.25 C/min prior to freezing together with addition of fractionated or unfractionated
glycerol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Rodenas
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Murcia, Espinardo 30100, Spain
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Alkmin DV, Perez-Patiño C, Barranco I, Parrilla I, Vazquez JM, Martinez EA, Rodriguez-Martinez H, Roca J. Boar sperm cryosurvival is better after exposure to seminal plasma from selected fractions than to those from entire ejaculate. Cryobiology 2014; 69:203-10. [PMID: 25037026 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2014.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [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: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Boar bulk ejaculates are now being collected instead of usual sperm-rich fractions (SRF) for artificial insemination purpose. The present study evaluated the influence of holding boar sperm samples before freezing surrounded in their own seminal plasma (SP), from either fractions/portions or the entire ejaculate, on post-thawing sperm quality and functionality. Ejaculates collected as bulk (BE) or as separate (first 10 mL of SRF [P1] and rest of SRF [P2]) from 10 boars were held 24h at 15-17°C and then frozen. Some bulk ejaculate samples were frozen immediately after collections as Control. In addition, epididymal sperm samples from the same 10 boars were collected post-mortem and extended in SP from P1 (EP1), P2 (EP2) and post SRF (EP3), and also held 24h before freezing for a better understanding of the influence of SP on boar sperm cryopreservation. The sperm quality (motility, evaluated by CASA, and viability, evaluated by flow cytometry) and functionality (flow cytometry assessment of plasma membrane fluidity, mitochondrial membrane potential and intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species [ROS] in viable sperm) were evaluated at 30, 150 and 300 min post-thaw. Post-thawing sperm quality and functionality of P1 and P2 were similar but higher (p < 0.01) than BE samples. Control samples showed higher (p < 0.01) post-thaw sperm quality and functionality than BE samples. Post-thawing sperm quality and functionality of EP1 and EP2 were similar but higher (p < 0.05) than EP3. These results showed that boar sperm from BE are more cryosensitive than those from the SRF, particularly when held 24h before freezing, which would be attributable to the cryonegative effects exerted by the SP from post SRF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego V Alkmin
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Isabel Barranco
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan M Vazquez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Emilio A Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tomás C, Gómez-Fernández J, Gómez-Izquierdo E, de Mercado E. Effect of the holding time at 15°C prior to cryopreservation, the thawing rate and the post-thaw incubation temperature on the boar sperm quality after cryopreservation. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 144:115-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Revised: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 12/19/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
19
|
McNamara KA, Knox RV. Effect of using frozen-thawed boar sperm differing in post-thaw motility in the first and second inseminations on pregnancy establishment, litter size, and fetal paternity in relation to time of ovulation1. J Anim Sci 2013; 91:5637-45. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2013-6867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K. A. McNamara
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign, Urbana 61801
| | - R. V. Knox
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign, Urbana 61801
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Silva M, Peixoto G, Castelo T, Lima G, Silva A, Oliveira M, Silva A. Cryopreservation of collared peccary (Pecari tajacu) semen using different freezing curves, straw sizes, and thawing rates. Cryobiology 2013; 67:50-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2013.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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: 01/14/2013] [Revised: 04/28/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
21
|
Casas I, Althouse G. The protective effect of a 17°C holding time on boar sperm plasma membrane fluidity after exposure to 5°C. Cryobiology 2013; 66:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2012.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2012] [Revised: 11/12/2012] [Accepted: 11/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
22
|
Martinez-Alborcia MJ, Valverde A, Parrilla I, Vazquez JM, Martinez EA, Roca J. Detrimental effects of non-functional spermatozoa on the freezability of functional spermatozoa from boar ejaculate. PLoS One 2012; 7:e36550. [PMID: 22567165 PMCID: PMC3342209 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0036550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, the impact of non-functional spermatozoa on the cryopreservation success of functional boar spermatozoa was evaluated. Fifteen sperm-rich ejaculate fractions collected from five fertile boars were frozen with different proportions of induced non-functional sperm (0--native semen sample-, 25, 50 and 75% non-functional spermatozoa). After thawing, the recovery of motile and viable spermatozoa was assessed, and the functional of the spermatozoa was evaluated from plasma membrane fluidity and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation upon exposure to capacitation conditions. In addition, the lipid peroxidation of the plasma membrane was assessed by the indirect measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) generation. The normalized (with respect to a native semen sample) sperm motility (assessed by CASA) and viability (cytometrically assessed after staining with Hoechst 33342, propidium iodide and fluorescein-conjugated peanut agglutinin) decreased (p<0.01) as the proportion of functional spermatozoa in the semen samples before freezing decreased, irrespective of the semen donor. However, the magnitude of the effect differed (p<0.01) among boars. Moreover, semen samples with the largest non-functional sperm subpopulation before freezing showed the highest (p<0.01) levels of MDA after thawing. The thawed viable spermatozoa of semen samples with a high proportion of non-functional spermatozoa before freezing were also functionally different from those of samples with a low proportion of non-functional spermatozoa. These differences consisted of higher (p<0.01) levels of intracellular ROS generation (assessed with 5-(and-6) chloromethyl-20,70-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate acetyl ester; CM-H(2)DCFDA) and increased (p<0.01) membrane fluidity (assessed with Merocyanine 540). These findings indicate that non-functional spermatozoa in the semen samples before freezing negatively influence the freezability of functional spermatozoa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria J. Martinez-Alborcia
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science. University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Anthony Valverde
- Agronomy School, Costa Rica Institute of Technology, Cartago, Costa Rica
| | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science. University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan M. Vazquez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science. University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Emilio A. Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science. University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science. University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Casas I, Torner E, Yeste M, Bonet S. Boar sperm thawing practices: The number of straws does matter. Theriogenology 2012; 77:1487-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.10.041] [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: 07/22/2011] [Revised: 10/28/2011] [Accepted: 10/30/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
|