Abstract
Simple SummaryLong-term preservation of semen is a pivotal step for artificial insemination in most farm animal species, but it is associated with cellular insults at the cell membrane and cytoskeleton level as well as the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We highlight the recent strategies to combat these negative effects through defending against the ROS via antioxidant nanoparticles or through repairing/regenerating the damaged sperm through using liposomes and most recently exosomes derived from the reproductive tract or stem cells.Cryopreservation is an essential tool to preserve sperm cells for zootechnical management and artificial insemination purposes. Cryopreservation is associated with sperm damage via different levels of plasma membrane injury and oxidative stress. Nanoparticles are often used to defend against free radicals and oxidative stress generated through the entire process of cryopreservation. Recently, artificial or natural nanovesicles including liposomes and exosomes, respectively, have shown regenerative capabilities to repair damaged sperm during the freeze–thaw process. Exosomes possess a potential pleiotropic effect because they contain antioxidants, lipids, and other bioactive molecules regulating and repairing spermatozoa. In this review, we highlight the current strategies of using nanoparticles and nanovesicles (liposomes and exosomes) to combat the cryoinjuries associated with semen cryopreservation.
Highlights
Semen cryopreservation contributes to genetic improvement through artificial insemination, eliminates geographical barriers in artificial insemination (AI) application, and supports the preservation of endangered breeds, the conservation of biodiversity
It has been proposed that liposomes with their contents of phospholipids and saturated and unsaturated fatty acids can fuse with the sperm plasma membrane and abate the damage to spermatozoa caused by the freeze–thaw process [119,120] (Figure 1)
Current trends include using nanoparticles and natural or artificial nanovesicles such as exosomes and liposomes to improve the cryopreservation of semen
Summary
Semen cryopreservation contributes to genetic improvement through artificial insemination, eliminates geographical barriers in artificial insemination (AI) application, and supports the preservation of endangered breeds, the conservation of biodiversity. Baghshahi et al [34] showed that cryopreservation of ram spermatozoa may cause damage to the function and structure of sperm cells, in terms of reduced semen quality and sperm characteristics This is due to the reduction of the temperature that is associated with the OS, which has been defined as an imbalance between oxidants and cellular antioxidant mechanisms and is induced by the generation of ROS [35]. Exposure of semen to oxygen and visible light radiation during in vitro fertilization or AI resulted in ROS generation and damaged spermatozoa, reduced motility, and reduced membrane integrity in humans and bovines [51,52,53] Under these conditions, exogenous addition of catalase, GSH, taurine, superoxide dismutase, and other antioxidants can lead to the maintenance of bovine sperm motility [52]. Recent nanotechnologies reflect new prospects for developing novel and noninvasive techniques for sperm manipulation [63,64,65]
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