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

Agnieszka Partyka,Wojciech Niżański

doi:10.3390/antiox10121927

Agnieszka Partyka, Wojciech Niżański

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10121927

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Abstract

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

Highlights

Oxidative stress in sperm is a phenomenon related to the increasing rate of oxidation of cellular components and the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS)
The influence of oxidative stress on sperm is important during semen storage and semen cryopreservation because of an increased production of ROS during these processes [1]
We have presented the current knowledge and the newest effective strategies exploiting antioxidants used in poultry assisted reproductive techniques

Summary

Introduction

Oxidative stress in sperm is a phenomenon related to the increasing rate of oxidation of cellular components and the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The influence of oxidative stress on sperm is important during semen storage and semen cryopreservation because of an increased production of ROS during these processes [1]. The main sites of ROS formation are the mitochondria [2] and the sperm cell membrane [3], which are vulnerable to damage resulting from rapid temperature changes. The high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly arachidonic (20:4n-6) and docosatetraenoic (22:4n-6) acids, in the phospholipids of bird sperm cell membranes renders these cells susceptible to lipid peroxidation (LPO) [4,5,6,7]. An effective antioxidant system is essential for the protection of sperm membranes against peroxidative damage. To ensure the proper functioning of cells, it is necessary to have a balance between the formation of ROS and the protective action of the antioxidant system

Antioxidant System Characteristics of Avian Semen

Effect of Adding External Antioxidants to Diluents on Antioxidant Systems and

Storage in the Liquid State

Semen Cryopreservation

Findings

Conclusions