Sperm Ratio Research Articles

Source and level of dietary iron influence semen quality by affecting inflammation, oxidative stress and iron utilization levels in boars

BackgroundBoars fed a mixed form of inorganic and organic iron in excess of the NRC recommended levels still develop anemia, which suggested that the current level and form of iron supplementation in boar diets may be inappropriate. Therefore, 56 healthy Topeka E line boars aged 15–21 months were randomly divided into 5 groups: basal diet supplemented with 96 mg/kg ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) and 54 mg/kg glycine chelated iron (Gly-Fe, control); 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe; 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg methionine hydroxyl analogue chelated iron (MHA-Fe, from Calimet-Fe) for 16 weeks. The effects of dietary iron supplementation with different sources and levels on semen quality in boars were investigated.Results1) Serum Fe and hemoglobin concentrations were not affected by reduced dietary iron levels in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe and MHA-Fe groups compared with the control group (P > 0.05). 2) Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and sperm malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe groups were lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05), and higher serum superoxide dismutase levels and lower MDA levels in the 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe group (P < 0.05). 3) Boars in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe and MHA-Fe groups had lower serum hepcidin (P < 0.01), ferritin (P < 0.05), and transferrin receptor (P < 0.01) concentrations, and boars in the 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe group had higher seminal plasma Fe concentrations compared with the control group. 4) Boars in the 80 mg/kg and 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe groups had lower abnormal sperm rate and in situ oscillating sperm ratio compared to the control group at weeks 12 and/or 16 of the trial. However, the effect of Gly-Fe on improving semen quality in boars was not evident. 5) Serum IL-6 level was positively correlated with hepcidin concentration (P < 0.05), which in turn was significantly positively correlated with abnormal sperm rate (P < 0.05). Furthermore, significant correlations were also found between indicators of iron status and oxidative stress and semen quality parameters.ConclusionsDietary supplementation with 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe did not induce iron deficiency, but rather reduced serum inflammatory levels and hepcidin concentration, alleviated oxidative stress, increased body iron utilization, and improved semen quality in adult boars.

Correlation between seminal plasma biochemical markers and semen parameters in idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia: identification of biomarkers for L-carnitine therapy.

L-carnitine therapy for idiopathic sperm abnormalities exhibits variable effectiveness, and currently, there are no established criteria to predict patient response. This study investigated correlations between seminal plasma markers and semen parameters to identify biomarkers that can guide indications for L-carnitine therapy indications in patients with idiopathic sperm abnormalities. A retrospective review was conducted on 223 male patients with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia, who sought medical attention at our clinic between January 2020 and October 2022. These patients underwent a pretreatment seminal plasma biochemical analysis, followed by a three-month continuous L-carnitine treatment. The correlation between seminal plasma biochemical parameters and pretreatment semen parameters was analyzed. Semen quality was compared between cases with normal and abnormal seminal plasma biochemical parameters, both pretreatment and posttreatment. The correlation between the changes in semen parameters after treatment and seminal plasma biochemical parameters were investigated. Correlation analyses revealed significant associations between all pretreatment semen parameters and seminal plasma biochemical markers, except for liquefying time and the ratio of normal morphology. Subgroup analysis, stratified by seminal fructose, zinc, citric acid, and neutral glycosidase levels, demonstrated that abnormal groups exhibited significantly different levels of semen parameters compared with the normal groups. The changing difference and changing ratio in the ratio of forward motile sperm showed a negative correlation with seminal fructose levels (r=-0.165 and -0.144). The changing difference in semen volume was negatively correlated with the level of seminal neutral glycosidase (r=-0.158). The changing ratio in semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, and count of forward motile sperm all exhibited negative correlations with the levels of seminal neutral glycosidase (range from -0.178 to -0.224). Seminal plasma biochemical markers, particularly fructose and neutral glycosidase, may serve as valuable indicators for determining the eligibility of patients with idiopathic sperm abnormalities for L-carnitine therapy.

Small noncoding RNAs and sperm nuclear basic proteins reflect the environmental impact on germ cells

BackgroundMolecular techniques can complement conventional spermiogram analyses to provide new information on the fertilizing potential of spermatozoa and to identify early alterations due to environmental pollution.MethodsHere, we present a multilevel molecular profiling by small RNA sequencing and sperm nuclear basic protein analysis of male germ cells from 33 healthy young subjects residing in low and high-polluted areas.ResultsAlthough sperm motility and sperm concentration were comparable between samples from the two sites, those from the high-pollution area had a higher concentration of immature/immune cells, a lower protamine/histone ratio, a reduced ability of sperm nuclear basic proteins to protect DNA from oxidative damage, and an altered copper/zinc ratio in sperm. Sperm levels of 32 microRNAs involved in intraflagellar transport, oxidative stress response, and spermatogenesis were different between the two areas. In parallel, a decrease of Piwi-interacting RNA levels was observed in samples from the high-polluted area.ConclusionsThis comprehensive analysis provides new insights into pollution-driven epigenetic alterations in sperm not detectable by spermiogram.Graphical

The effect untreated right subclinical varicocele on the outcomes of contralateral left clinical varicocelectomy in infertile patients.

The management of infertile patients with unilateral subclinical varicocele (SCV) and contralateral clinical varicocele (CV) remains controversial. We aimed to evaluate the effect of untreating SCV on the outcome of contralateral clinical varicocelectomy in infertile patients with oligoasthenozoospermia (OA). Infertile patients with the diagnosis of OA who underwent left varicocelectomy were retrospectively evaluated. While all patients in the study had left clinical varicocele (LCV), some patients had concomitant right SCV. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of a right SCV accompanying LCV as group 1; (LCV n = 104) or group 2; (LCV with right SCV, n = 74). Patients were evaluated with spermiogram parameters, pregnancy rates and serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, total testosterone at the first year of the follow-up. The mean sperm concentration increased significantly in both groups. However, group 1 showed significantly greater improvement than group 2. The ratio of progressive motile sperm in group 1 was increased significantly whereas no significant change was shown in group 2. Both the spontaneous pregnancy rate and the pregnancy rate with ART were statistically lower in the group of patients with right SCV. No statistically significant difference was detected in serum hormone levels in both groups after varicocelectomy operations. Untreated right SCV may have adverse impact on the outcomes of left clinical varicocelectomy. In this context, the right testis can be considered in terms of treatment in patients with right SCV accompanying left CV.

Short-Term Storage of Japanese Koi (Cyprinus carpio var. koi) Sperm on the Egg Fertilization Performance

Lack of mature male broodfish, insufficient sperm, and non-synchronized maturation times have always been a hindrance to the breeding program of Japanese koi (Cyprinus carpio var. koi) raised indoors. Therefore, it is believed that the preservation of Japanese koi sperm by short-term storage and cryopreservation could solve this problem. In this study, the appropriate diluent solution, sperm-to-diluent ratio, and storage temperature for short-term storage of Japanese koi sperm were determined, and the efficacy of the short-term stored sperm in fertilizing eggs was evaluated. Milt samples collected from sexually mature males were pooled and tested in modified calcium-free Hank's Balanced Salt Solution (CF-HBSS), modified Mahseer extender, and modified Kurokura extender at 1:1 and 1:5 ratios of sperm to diluent, respectively. Storage temperatures were tested at 4 °C and room temperature. Milt sample without diluent solution served as a control. The percentage of sperm motility was measured daily for one week. For the egg fertilization experiment, Japanese koi eggs were fertilized with sperm on the second day of short-term storage, while a freshly collected sperm sample served as a control. We found that sperm diluted 1:1 with a modified Kurokura extender and stored at 4 °C had a mean sperm motility of 76.00 ± 3.06% on the third day, compared with 54.67 ± 2.91% in the control treatment (P&lt;0.05). Short-term stored spermatozoa showed equivalent egg fertilization ability compared to fresh spermatozoa (control) (P&gt;0.05). In conclusion, the use of a modified Kurokura extender at a 1:1 ratio of sperm to diluent and storage at 4 °C was optimal for short-term storage of Japanese koi sperm, and these sperm still showed equivalent egg fertilization ability to freshly collected sperm after two days of storage. In addition, the current study also determined the appropriate extender solution for cryopreservation of Japanese koi sperm.

Determination of the Effect of Epigallocatechin Gallate on Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis and Sperm Quality in Rabbit Semen

Objectives;In this study, it was aimed to determine the effect of Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on the cryopreservation of rabbit semen. &#x0D; Material and metod; For this purpose, semen was collected from six male New Zealand rabbits. Collected semen were divided into 5 groups as control, 25 µM, 50 µM, 100 µM and 200 µM. Semen samples were reconstituted and frozen after adding EGCG. Frozen straws were then thawed. &#x0D; Results; After freezing and thawing, total motility, progressive motility, and rate of fast and medium speed sperm were significantly higher in the 50 µM group than in the other groups. Static sperm ratio was found to be lower in the 50 µM group than in the other groups. When the flow cytometry results were examined, there was no statistical difference between the groups in terms of the ratio of dead and live sperm. However, the rate of dead sperm with acrosome damage was found to be the lowest in the 50 µM group. High mitochondrial membrane potential sperm ratio was found higher in 50 µM and 100 µM groups compared to other groups (p

Protective Effect of Low-Volume High-Intensity Interval Training on Aspirin-Induced Reproductive Impairments in Adult Male Wistar Rats.

Lifestyle factors such as sedentary behavior and consumption of certain medications can disturb the function of the male reproductive system. In the present study, we investigated the potential co-treatment effects of low-volume high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on markers of reproductive function in adult male Wistar rats under aspirin (ASA) treatment. Eighteen adult male Wistar rats were randomized into three groups: control (C), aspirin treatment (AT), and aspirin treatment + exercise (ATE). Animals in the AT and ATE groups received an oral subchronic dose of aspirin (12.5 mg/kg body mass). The exercise was performed three times per week for 6 weeks (4-6 reps of 10-s sprints). Serum testosterone level, sperm parameters (sperm count, viability, maturity, and DNA fragmentation), histomorphometric (Leydig cell, tubule diameter, thickness of tubular epithelium, and indices of spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis), and histochemical parameter (testicular fat density) were assessed. Results revealed that compared to the C group, ASA consumption led to a negative alteration in serum testosterone levels, sperm parameters, and histomorphometric and histochemical parameters (P < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences between the C and ATE groups in terms of serum testosterone level, number of Leydig cells, epididymal fat density, tubule diameter, epithelium height, immature-to-mature sperm ratio, and DNA breakage (P > 0.05). These findings suggest that ASA treatment is associated with deleterious changes in male reproductive parameters. However, low-volume HIIT may prevent ASA-induced male reproductive impairments and could be considered a potential prophylactic measure in subjects under ASA treatment.

Ram semen quality after supplementation with gelatin, agar or alginate prior to cooling storage.

Adding gelling agents to convert the liquid state of the semen extender to a solid state allows for an increased sperm life span. Gelatin and alginate have been used to study the effects of gelling agents on sperm quality. However, there are other gelling agents that have not been studied, such as agar. In addition, studying different sources of gelling agents or the effect of mixing more than one gelling agent with semen extenders on sperm fertility has received little attention. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding agar and a mixture of gelling agents from different sources to semen extender on ram sperm traits and fertility. The first trial evaluated the effect of the addition of 2.5-3 mg mL-1 of gelatin mixed with 0.5-20 mg mL-1 of agar or alginate to ram semen extender on sperm (motility, progressive motility, live/dead, membrane integrity) and semen (pH) characteristics. The response variables were evaluated 1, 72 and 144 h after storage at 4°C. In the second trial, two sources (feed grade and bacteriological) of gelatin and agar were evaluated on the response variables as in Trial 1. In trial 3, a total of 34 ewes were inseminated with doses supplemented (n = 17) with or without (n = 17) agar and gelatin. The pregnancy rate was diagnosed 40 days after insemination. In general, adding agar and gelatin improves (p < .05) sperm motility, membrane integrity and the ratio of live sperm after 144 h of storage compared to the Control group, regardless of the source (bacteriological or feed grade). However, the pregnancy rate in ewes was not influenced (p ≥ .05) by semen doses stored with agar and gelatin. In conclusion, the addition of agar and gelatin preserves ram sperm motility and membrane integrity after 144 of storage at 4°C without affecting the pregnancy rate in inseminated ewes.

Investigación del efecto de la coenzima Q10 sobre el daño testicular inducido por ciclofosfamida en ratas macho

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is one of the frequently preferred chemotherapeutic agents Worldwide. CP has negative effects on the testes, spermatogenesis, and reproductive hormones. The aim of this study was to determine the protective effect of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on the damage caused by CP. CoQ10 is use in the treatment of infertility problems and is naturally found in the testes and seminal fluid. Thirty–six Albino Wistar male rats were divided into six groups (Control, Sham, Cyclophosphamide (CP), Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), CP + CoQ10 I, CP + CoQ10 II), with six animals in each group. Semen analysis included investigations of sperm DNA damage, motility, abnormal sperm ratio, and density. Histopathological examination and assessment of oxidative stress parameters in the testes were conducted. Additionally, serum levels of FSH, LH, and Testosterone were measured. CoQ10 administration increased the motility rate, density, and Testosterone levels in testicular damage caused by CP (P&lt;0.05). Furthermore, it was observed that the abnormal sperm ratio, sperm DNA damage, and oxidative stress were reduced (P&lt;0.05). Based on the results of this study, the use of CoQ10 in conjunction with CP has the potential to alleviate male infertility problems that may arise from CP administration.

Efecto de la administración exógena de Melatonina sobre la Espermatogénesis en un modelo de rata con estrés crónico impredecible

This study investigated the hormonal, inflammatory, oxidant–antioxidant, and histopathological effects of exogenous Melatonin administration on Spermatogenesis in rats' chronic unpredictable stress model (CUSM). In the study, stress caused a decrease in follicle stimulating–hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), Testosterone, Melatonin, Glutathione (GSH), Glutathione peroxidase (GSH–Px), catalase, interleukin 10 (IL–10) levels and motility, and an increase in Corticosterone, nuclear factor kappa beta (NF–kB), tumor necrosis factor–alpha (TNF–α), interleukin 1 beta (IL–1β), interleukin 6 (IL–6), abnormal sperm, dead/live sperm ratio and exogenous Melatonin reduced inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress and improved spermatological parameters (P&lt;0.05). Melatonin also partially corrected stress–induced changes in testicular morphology. As a result, using Melatonin in rats with CUSM may be effective in improving spermatological parameters through anti–inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms.

Omega 6/Omega 3 Ratio Is High in Individuals with Increased Sperm DNA fragmentation.

An imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in sperm has been linked with lipid peroxidation and DNA damage in sperm, indicating a possible correlation to fertility potential. This cross-sectional study involved 56 infertile men (aged 25-45), and assessed the relationship between the omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio in sperm and seminal plasma with sperm DNA fragmentation. Individuals were categorized based on high or low levels of sperm DNA fragmentation according to two tests (TUNEL and SCSA assay less or greater than 10 and 30%, respectively), and their fatty acid composition, as well as sperm functional tests, were analyzed. Results showed that men with high DNA fragmentation exhibited higher percentages of total saturated, monounsaturated, and omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratios in both sperm (P < 0.001) and seminal plasma (P < 0.001) compared to men with low DNA fragmentation. The percentage of sperm lipid peroxidation, and residual histone (P < 0.05) were higher, while the percentage of sperm motility (P < 0.001) was lower in the former compared to the latter group. Moreover, Pearson's correlation revealed positive associations between the omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio with sperm lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation, and residual histones in both sperm and seminal plasma. Overall, these observations suggest that consumption of omega-3 fatty acids may be related to male fertility potential, as it appears that individuals with a high percentage of omega-3 fatty acids have better sperm quality compared to men with a lower omega-3 fatty acid.

Exploratory study on the sperm ratio in dogs: repeatability over time and some reproductive effects.

Mechanisms that regulate sexual chromosome distribution in the canine ejaculate are not quite understood with no data about both its variation over time and the effect on reproductive parameters. With the aim to deepen these aspects, ten purebred male dogs, aged between 1.5 and 8.5 years, underwent digito-digital semen collection every three months throughout one year. A quantitative real-time PCR method was used to measure the sperm-sex ratio. The sperm-sex ratio was slightly female-biased without a significant difference throughout the year, albeit with some individual dynamic fluctuation over time. The total number of spermatozoa (P &lt; 0.05) but not serum testosterone concentration nor the age of the dog was related to the sperm-sex ratio. In particular, dogs with a lower spermatozoa rate showed a greater number of spermatozoa in the ejaculate than dogs with a higher rate. A decreasing trend of X spermatozoa rate was also observed in dogs younger than 5 years of age. Quantitative real-time PCR proved to be an accurate, practical, and reliable method for determining the sperm-sex ratio in dogs. Further studies on a large scale could help to deepen the factors involved in the sperm-sex ratio and consequently in the offspring-sex ratio, opening new frontiers in canine andrology.

Optimisation of sperm cryopreservation protocol for Asian stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch, 1794), to support hatchery seed production

The present study experimentally evaluated different parameters such as extender composition, storage duration and egg to sperm ratio to optimise parameters for sperm cryopreservation in Asian stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis. Four extender compositions viz. Hanks Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS), Modified HBSS (M-HBSS), Modified HBSS with hen’s egg yolk (M-HBSS with EY) and European catfish extender were evaluated for sperm cryopreservation with dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) as cryoprotectant (10% v/v). The hatching rate was used as standard to evaluate the fertility of thawed sperm at different periods of storage (2, 270 and 668 days). After 2 days, extender M-HBSS exhibited highest hatching rate (49.06±2.67%) which was comparable to the control value (51.00±7.23%), followed by HBSS (42.76±32.0%), M-HBSS with EY (37.46±24.34%) and European catfish extender (29.47±25.61%), respectively. After 270 days with M-HBSS, hatching rate was 64.34±8.84% similar to the control; however, cryopreserved sperm with other extenders exhibited lower hatching rate as compared to control and M-HBSS. After 668 days, sperm cryopreserved in the extender M-HBSS, only yielded successful hatching. Results indicated that presence of egg yolk in the extender M-HBSS did not improve the performance of cryopreserved sperm. The successful hatching using cryopreserved sperm after 270 and 668 days of storage indicates M-HBSS as a useful extender for sperm cryobanking and seed production of H. fossilis. Keywords: Aquaculture, Cryopreservation, Cryoprotectant, Dimethyl sulphoxide, Extender, Hanks Balanced Salt Solution, Hatching rate

Activation of Nrf-2 Transcription Factor and Caspase Pathway with Royal Jelly Reduces Fluoride Induced Testicular Damage and Infertility in Rats.

This study was carried out to investigate the protective properties of royal jelly on the testicular tissue of rats with testicular damage by giving fluoride. Sperm motility, epididymal sperm density and abnormal sperm ratios were examined and visualized with a light microscope. Expression levels of Caspase-3, Bcl-2, Nrf-2, NF-κB, COX-2, TNF-α and IL1-α proteins in testis tissue were determined by western blot technique. As a result of the study, MDA level, expression level of Bcl-2, NFҡB, COX-2, TNF-α and IL1-α proteins, abnormal sperm rates were found higher in Fluoride-50 and Fluoride100 groups compared to other groups. In addition GSH, Catalase enzyme levels, expression levels of Caspase-3 and Nrf-2 proteins were found to be higher in Fluoride + Royal Jelly groups compared to Fluoride-50 and Fluoride-100 groups. In addition, lower degeneration of testicular tissue was found in the histological evaluation in the Fluoride + Royal Jelly groups compared to the other groups. When the data are evaluated royal jelly provides effective protection against testicular damage. From this point of view, we hope that similar results will be obtained when royal jelly is tested on humans.

MP30-06 A UNIQUE EPIGENETIC-BASED TEST TO ACCURATELY PREDICT SUCCESSFUL TESE AND mTESE OUTCOMES

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP30-06 A UNIQUE EPIGENETIC-BASED TEST TO ACCURATELY PREDICT SUCCESSFUL TESE AND mTESE OUTCOMES Tim Jenkins, Ryan Barney, Kelaney Stalker, Ryan Miller, Kristin Brogaard, Jordan Kassab, and Larry Lipshultz Tim JenkinsTim Jenkins More articles by this author , Ryan BarneyRyan Barney More articles by this author , Kelaney StalkerKelaney Stalker More articles by this author , Ryan MillerRyan Miller More articles by this author , Kristin BrogaardKristin Brogaard More articles by this author , Jordan KassabJordan Kassab More articles by this author , and Larry LipshultzLarry Lipshultz More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003258.06AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Affecting 1% of men, non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is the absence of sperm in the ejaculate, and is the most severe form of male infertility. Currently, men with NOA have decreased chances of conceiving a child of their own. Despite recent progress in reproductive medicine, men with NOA have essentially one invasive and expensive procedure to isolate sperm (microdissection testicular sperm extraction or mTESE). Unfortunately, mTESE has a ∼50% failure rate. Here we present the use of an innovative DNA methylation-based technology to non-invasively predict the presence of sperm in the testicle of men with NOA. METHODS: At a single academic center biopsies (N=18) and azoospermic semen samples (N=5) were procured from consented men who had undergone a testicular aspirate, biopsy, or mTESE procedure. Utilizing new epigenetic technology, the biopsies and semen samples were analyzed for sperm-specific DNA. Specifically, these samples were analyzed for a sequence of DNA that can distinguish sperm cells from all other somatic cells via a unique methylation pattern. The quantity of sperm-specific DNA can be used to determine the absence (men with <0.25 ratio of sperm to somatic DNA) or presence (>0.5 ratio of sperm to somatic DNA) of sperm in the testicles. These ratios were defined for each sample and compared to clinical outcomes of the TESA, TESE or mTESE procedures. RESULTS: Out of the 18 biopsies, 13 had >0.5 ratios of sperm DNA to somatic cell DNA in the testicular biopsies. All of these men were found to have sperm in their biopsies as defined from the clinical notes. 3 of the 18 men had <0.25 ratios of sperm DNA to somatic cell DNA. Again, consistent with previous analysis, none of these men had sperm in their biopsies. The remaining 2 men had ratios between 0.26 – 0.49, with one having sperm in his biopsy and one without sperm. Of the 5 azoospermic semen samples with associated TESA results, 3 has ratios of <0.25 and all 3 had no sperm in the corresponding TESA samples. 2 semen samples had ratios of >0.5 and were confirmed to have sperm in the TESA sample. CONCLUSIONS: In the analysis of testicular biopsies and semen samples, the sperm-specific DNA methylation ratios of <0.25% or >0.5% were 100% predictive of either the absence or presence of sperm in the testicle. With these data the next steps of our work will focus on continued analysis of sperm-specific cfDNA in seminal plasma to predict the presence or absence of sperm prior to a testicular extraction procedure. The ultimate goal will be to develop a non-invasive and cost-effective way to avoid unnecessary surgical procedures. Source of Funding: Venture Capital © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e393 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Tim Jenkins More articles by this author Ryan Barney More articles by this author Kelaney Stalker More articles by this author Ryan Miller More articles by this author Kristin Brogaard More articles by this author Jordan Kassab More articles by this author Larry Lipshultz More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

The effect of luteolin on spermatological parameters, apoptosis, oxidative stress rate in freezing rabbit semen.

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of Luteolin (LUT) on semen quality, oxidative stress, apoptosis, acrosomal integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential and dead sperm ratio in rabbits. Ejaculates from six New Zealand rabbits were collected, evaluated and pooled. The pooling was divided into five groups as control (no additive) LUT 25 µM, LUT 50 µM, LUT 100 µM and LUT 200 µM and LUT added. It was then filled into a falcon tube with Tris-based extender at a final concentration of approximately 35 x 106 spermatozoa. Diluated rabbit semen samples were drawn into frozen and thawed. Frozen semen straws were thawed at 37°C in 30 seconds. According to our findings, no statistical difference was found between all doses of luteolin and the control group in the CASA (computer assisted sperm analysis) analysis performed at 4°C. However, total motility, progressive motility and rapid sperm percentage were found to be higher in the frozen and thawed rabbit semen at a dose of LUT 50 µM compared to the other groups (p⟨0.05). While amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) and beat cross-frequency (BCF) values were found at the lowest dose of LUT 200 µM, a statistically significant difference was observed between the other groups. When the flow cytometry results were examined, no statistical difference was found between the rate of dead sperm, acrosomal integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptosis rate. Morever, the H2 O2 percentage was found to be lower in all experimental groups compared to the control group (p⟨0.001). In conclusion, the addition of LUT in long-term storage of rabbit semen provided a protective effect for spermatozoa with its antioxidative properties against damage caused by cryopreservation.

Effect of Adding Different Levels from Melatonin in Some Characteristics Semen of Broiler Breeder Male Ross308

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of adding different levels of melatonin in some of semen Characteristics and antioxidant status in male broiler breeder Ross308, from16/11/2017 to 30/1/2018.Atotal of 25 bird of Ross 308 broiler breeder males ,30 weeks' old were used in this study. The birds were randomly distributed into five group with five replicates each. Each treatment group constituted of 5 birds (1bird each replicate). the broiler breeder males administrated orally with capsules contain melatonin. Treatment groups were as following: T1: Birds fed the basal diet without any addition (control),T2: Birds fed diet supplemented with 15mg/kg of diet,T3: Birds fed diet supplemented with 30 mg/kg of diet,T4: Birds fed diet supplemented with 40 mg/kg of diet and T5: Birds fed diet supplemented with 60 mg/kg of diet. The result of the study revealed a significant decrease in the ejaculated volume, sperm's mass and individual motility and sperm concentration, With a significant increase in dead and abnormal sperm ratio. However, administration with melatonin at (60) mg/kg diet resulted in significant increase (p&lt;0.05) in glucose and total protein concentration of seminal plasma. Also adding melatonin with (15) mg/kg diet had significant improved in the antioxidant status. &#x0D; &#x0D;

Evaluation of the in vitro cryopreservative performance of Juniper berry oil (Juniperus communis) on frozen-thawed bull semen

This study aimed to reveal the effects of juniper (Juniperus communis) berry oil (JB) when added to the Tris extender, on bull (Holstein) sperm motility characteristics, abnormal sperm ratio, DNA fragmentation and some oxidative stress markers. The pooled ejaculate was divided into five equal parts as control (C) and Tris diluent containing 25, 50, 100, 200 μg/ml JB. Diluted semen was incubated at 4 °C for 4 h and then frozen in liquid nitrogen (−196 °C). After freezing-thawing, motility characteristics were determined using a sperm analyzer system. The results showed that the 25 μg/ml dose of JB had an improving effect on overall sperm motility (P &lt; 0.05). The total abnormal spermatozoa ratio was not significantly different between the groups (P &gt; 0.05). The JB25 and JB50 groups had higher DNA integrity than the other groups (P &lt; 0.05). This finding was supported by low malondialdehyde levels (P &lt; 0.05). Especially the 25 μg/ml dose of JB was found to have a remedial effect on DNA integrity, as well as increasing progressive and total motility rates. This study has revealed new information on the effects of JB on bull semen cryopreservation. Juniper berry oil may be used as an antioxidant in bull semen freezing.

Effect of sulforaphane on long-term storage of rabbit semen

In this study, it was aimed to determine the effect of sulforaphane (SFN) on rabbit semen cryopreservation. Semen collected from animals was divided into 5 equal volumes as Control, SFN 5 µM, SFN 10 µM, SFN 25 µM and SFN 50 µM groups. Afterwards, semen analyzes were performed. According to our results, there was no statistical difference between the groups at 4°C. However after freezing thawing, the highest total motility, progressive motility and rapid spermatozoa rate was seen in the 10 µM SFN group, while the lowest was observed in the 50 µM SFN group (P<0.05). Static sperm ratio was highest in the 50 µM group, while the lowest was observed in the 10 µM SFN group. When flow cytometry results examined the rate of acrosomal damaged and dead sperm was the lowest in the 10 µM SFN group, a statistical difference was observed between the control group (P<0.05). The highest rate of sperm with high mitochondrial membrane potential was seen in the 5 µM SFN and 10 µM SFN groups. Apoptosis and ROS rates were found to be lower in the experimental groups compared to the control groups (P<0.05). As a result, SFN supplementation at a dose of 10 µM increased the quality of sperm in the freezing and thawing processes of rabbit semen. In conclusion, 10 µM SFN improved the quality of cryopreservation of rabbit semen.

Sperm cryopreservation before definitive therapy for early-stage prostate cancer: A single institution experience.

Male-fertility preservation—sperm cryopreservation is a gold standard for male-fertility preservation—has been paid attention for cancer patients over the past two decades because significant cancer treatment increasing cancer survivors and leading demand for future parenthood.1 Unfortunately, prostate cancer (PC) patients are not adequately informed about treatment-induced infertility before PC treatment although there were certain patients who hope fertility preservation.2 In this study, we report real-world data about sperm cryopreservation before definitive therapy for early-stage PC at our institution. We assessed eight PC patients who visited Reproduction Center of Yokohama City University Medical Center (YCUMC) for purpose of male-fertility preservation before definitive therapy for early-stage PC between 2013 and 2017. It is estimated that about 1.6% (8/500) of PC patients received definitive therapy could hope male-fertility preservation before treatment. We obtained the data of the PC status (prostate-specific antigen [PSA] levels, clinical stage, and Gleason scores), patients' age, type of definitive therapy for PC, sperm concentration, motility, whether to perform sperm cryopreservation, and whether to use of preserved sperm for pregnancy from the electronic medical record. Semen specimens were collected by masturbation after 48–120 h of sexual abstinence. Semen analysis was performed according to WHO guideline.3 Median age of the patients was 57 (range: 45–61). Median PSA levels were 6.1 (range: 4.1–8.6) ng/ml. Of the eight patients analyzed, one, six, and one patient were clinical stage T1c, T2a, and T2c, respectively. Gleason scores distributions were 3 + 3 in two, 3 + 4 in three, 4 + 3 in two, and 4 + 5 in one patient. Planned definitive therapy for PC was radical prostatectomy in one, seed implantation in four, and external beam radiation in three patients. Semen analysis was performed in all eight patients. Four out of eight patients were married and median age of their wife was 44 (range: 37–45). Median sperm concentration and motility were 46.5 × 106/ml (range: 5.3–110.1) and 4.9% (range: 1.3–23.3), respectively. Ejaculatory volume and normal morphology ratio of sperm were not evaluated. Sperm cryopreservation was performed in all patients except one. One patient did not hope cryopreservation because his own will. One patient who received seed implantation used preserved sperm for pregnancy and obtained a healthy baby. Boyd et al. reported that only 8.7% of localized PC patients were informed about the possibility of future male-infertility before PC treatment.2 Most PC patients are relatively aged and most physician tend to avoid about discussing it with their patients. Indeed, Boyd et al. reported that no patients with 55 years or older concerned about future infertility due to PC treatment among localized PC patients. However, patients who concerned about future male-infertility due to PC treatment are existing definitively, especially in young patients.2 Salonia et al. reported that 20% of PC patients hope for preoperative sperm cryopreservation.4 Especially, patients with younger, childless, and intense desire for fatherhood tend to hope for it. In addition, patients with early-stage PC have favorable prognosis. Therefore, physician should inform about possibility of male-infertility due to PC treatment and discuss about sperm cryopreservation before PC treatment with patients who hope male-fertility preservation. For young cancer patients, sperm cryopreservation might play a role not only for male-fertility preservation but also encourage of battle against cancer.5 Although there is no question that the sperm cryopreservation is a gold standard for male-fertility preservation, sperm preservation by testicular sperm extraction (TESE) is also useful. Especially, for the patients with ejaculatory dysfunction, for example, the patients received prostatectomy, radiation therapy for the prostate,6 or androgen ablation therapy,6, 7 TESE might be recommended instead of the sperm cryopreservation. Our study included only small number of patients. Therefore, definitive statement was not established from this study. However, we revealed that PC patients who hope male-fertility preservation before PC treatment were certainly exist. Physician should inform about male-infertility due to PC treatment and discuss about male-fertility preservation with patients. If the patients hope it, semen cryopreservation should be offered. Conceived and designed the study: Takashi Kawahara, Hiroji Uemura, and Yasuhide Miyoshi. Analyzed the data: Shinnosuke Kurodsa, Teppei Takeshima, Yasushi Yumura and Yasuhide Miyoshi. Wrote the paper: Yasuhide Miyoshi. All authors have read and approved the manuscript. None declared. Institutional review board approval of this study was obtained from YCUMC (R20002). Written informed consent was obtained from all patients for this study. N/A. N/A.