Next Article in Journal
Physical Pretreatments of Cassava Chips Influenced Chemical Composition, Physicochemical Properties, and In Vitro Digestibility in Animal Models
Next Article in Special Issue
The Impact of Microorganisms on Canine Semen Quality
Previous Article in Journal
Evaluation of the Impact of Near-Infrared Multiwavelength Locked System Laser Therapy on Skin Microbiome in Atopic Dogs
Previous Article in Special Issue
The Distribution of Boars Spermatozoa in Morphometrically Distinct Subpopulations after In Vitro Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation at 2500 MHz and Their Motility
 
 
Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
Journals
Animals
Volume 14
Issue 6
10.3390/ani14060907
animals-logo
Submit to this Journal Review for this Journal Propose a Special Issue
► Article Menu

Article Menu

share Share announcement Help format_quote Cite question_answer Discuss in SciProfiles thumb_up
...
Endorse textsms
...
Comment
first_page
settings
Order Article Reprints
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Article

Effect of Different Dilution Methods and Ratios of Ram Semen on Sperm Parameters after Cryopreservation

by
Liuming Zhang
,
Xuyang Wang
,
Caiyu Jiang
,
Tariq Sohail
,
Yuxuan Sun
,
Xiaomei Sun
,
Jian Wang
and
Yongjun Li
*
Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics & Molecular Breeding of Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Animals 2024, 14(6), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14060907
Submission received: 24 January 2024 / Revised: 29 February 2024 / Accepted: 2 March 2024 / Published: 15 March 2024
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Reproduction: Semen Quality Assessment, Volume II)
Browse Figures
Versions Notes

Abstract

:

Simple Summary

The appropriate dilution rate is crucial for the spermatozoa’s survival. Both excessively large and excessively small dilution rates will diminish the effectiveness of semen preservation. However, the dilution method and ratio for preserving Hu ram semen through cryopreservation are currently unclear. Therefore, the study aimed to analyze the effects of various dilution methods and ratios on the spermatozoa motility parameters and functional integrity of Hu ram semen after cryopreservation. The results showed that employing the correct dilution method and ratio (two-step dilution 1:3, 1:2) could improve the preservation effect of semen.

Abstract

The dilution method and ratio were tested to assess their effects on the Hu ram semen after cryopreservation. Experiment I aimed to explore the effect of various dilution ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4) of diluent I (Tris-based and egg yolk) under the condition of 1:1 dilution of diluent II (diluent I and glycerol) on the Hu ram semen preserved in liquid nitrogen regarding spermatozoa motility and kinetic parameters. Experiment II aimed to investigate the effect of various dilution ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4) of diluent I under the condition of 1:2 dilution of diluent II to the Hu ram semen for cryopreservation on spermatozoa motility and kinetic parameters. The purpose of experiment III is to assess the effect of various dilution methods and ratios on the cryopreservation of Hu ram semen by detecting spermatozoa motility, kinetic parameters, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. Experiment III includes four groups: one-step dilution method and two-step dilution method. The two-step dilution method includes two groups: 1:2, 1:1 and 1:3, 1:2, and the one-step dilution method includes two groups: 1:5 and 1:11. The results indicated that the post-thawed spermatozoa total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM) and average motion degree (MAD) were highest in the 1:2 group and significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in the 1:1 and 1:4 groups under the condition of 1:1 dilution of diluent II. The post-thawed spermatozoa TM and PM of the 1:3 group were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of the other groups under the condition of 1:2 dilution of diluent II. The post-thawed spermatozoa TM, PM, plasma membrane integrity and acrosome integrity of the two-step group (1:3, 1:2) were the highest and significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in the other groups. Additionally, the post-thawed spermatozoa ROS level of the two-step group (1:3, 1:2) was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than that in the one-step groups (1:5 and 1:11). Therefore, a two-step dilution (1:3, 1:2) was found to be the most suitable method and ratio for diluting the Hu ram semen after cryopreservation.

1. Introduction

Artificial insemination (AI) refers to the method of collecting semen artificially and transferring the processed semen to the reproductive organs of female animals in estrus [1]. AI is an advanced method of mating. Compared to natural mating, AI has made significant advancements and is an important technical method for the advancement of modern animal husbandry [2]. AI technology offers several advantages, including improving the utilization rate of superior male animals, increasing the conception rate of female animals, preventing the spread of certain reproductive tract diseases, addressing challenges related to crossbreeding and mating, overcoming regional limitations in female breeding and facilitating embryo transfer, synchronous estrus and other reproductive techniques [3,4,5]. In addition to the influence of female body condition, estrus detection and insemination methods, the efficiency of AI is also closely related to semen quality. Several factors affect semen quality, including semen preservation methods, dilution components, antibiotics, semen collection frequency and dilution times [6,7].
The concentration of spermatozoa is crucial for the survival time of spermatozoa. Appropriate dilution rates can increase the volume of semen, enhance the utilization rate of spermatozoa, and improve the effectiveness of multiple AI procedures [8,9]. During the preservation of semen, the metabolism of spermatozoa continuously consumes nutrients and produces metabolic wastes and oxidative factors, which can affect the effectiveness of semen preservation. Therefore, when the spermatozoa concentration is too high, the spermatozoa density exceeds the capacity of the diluent to provide sufficient nutrients for sperm movement, and the buffer and antioxidant substances in the diluent are unable to maintain pH stability and redox balance [10]. When the concentration of spermatozoa is too low, the level of beneficial substances in seminal plasma decreases. This reduction diminishes the protective ability of spermatozoa, resulting in a dilution effect and a shortened effective preservation time of semen [11]. Excessive dilution rate can lead to a decrease in spermatozoa density and the number of effective spermatozoa while increasing the insemination volume, and due to the unique structure of the sheep’s reproductive tract, the increase in semen volume can exacerbate the reflux of spermatozoa from the cervix, ultimately reducing the pregnancy rate [12,13]. Therefore, it is crucial to find the appropriate dilution method and ratio for semen preservation and AI.
The Hu sheep is a unique breed of sheep in China, known for its early sexual maturity, rapid growth and development, high fecundity, suitability for indoor rearing, strong adaptability to various environments, and excellent meat production performance [14]. China has a large population and limited land, leading to a growing demand for mutton [15]. As a result, indoor sheep farming has become the predominant method of breeding, and the Hu sheep breed aligns with this current development trend. Currently, the breeding scale of Hu sheep in China is expanding, but there is still a shortage, especially in meeting the market demand for meat products and lambskin processing. In order to promote the sustained and rapid development of the Hu sheep breeding industry, it is essential to utilize AI and other related reproduction technologies.
In the study of frozen semen in sheep, the freezing methods such as dilution method and ratios are different. Chen [16] adopted a one-step dilution method of 7.5 times, and the post-thawed Mongolian sheep’s spermatozoa progressive motility (PM) reached 39%. He [17] used a two-step dilution method of 5 times, and the post-thawed Dorset rams’ spermatozoa total motility (TM) reached 31%. Fang [18] used a one-step dilution method of 2.5 times, and the post-thawed small-tailed Han sheep’s spermatozoa TM reached 13%. However, the dilution method and ratios of Hu ram semen in cryopreservation are not clear. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to provide a reference for improving the preservation technology of Hu ram semen in production practice by examining spermatozoa TM, PM, kinematic parameters, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Experimental Design

Experiment 1: The study investigated the impact of different dilution ratios of diluent I (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4) under the condition of 1:1 dilution of diluent II on the motility and kinetic parameters of Hu ram semen preserved in liquid nitrogen (−196 °C). TM, PM, straight-line velocity (VSL, μm/s), curvilinear velocity (VCL, μm/s), average path velocity (VAP, μm/s), amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH, μm) and average motion degree (MAD, °/s) of the four groups were evaluated.
Experiment 2: The study aimed to investigate the impact of different dilution ratios of diluent I (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4) under the condition of 1:2 dilution of diluent II on spermatozoa motility and kinetic parameters after cryopreservation. TM, PM, VSL, VCL, VAP, ALH and MAD of the four groups were evaluated.
Experiment 3 aimed to investigate the one-step and two-step dilution methods. The two-step dilution method included two groups: 1:2, 1:1 and 1:3, 1:2, and the one-step dilution method included two groups: 1:5 and 1:11. The purpose of this experiment was to assess the effect of various dilution methods and ratios on the cryopreservation of Hu ram semen by measuring spermatozoa motility (TM and PM), kinetic parameters (VSL, VCL, VAP, ALH and MAD), plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity and ROS level.

2.2. Semen Collection and Diluent Preparation

The procedures for animals during the experiment complied with the regulations of the Animal Ethics Committee of Yangzhou University (Approval ID: 202206132). The study utilized five mature and healthy Hu rams, which were housed at the sheep facility within Yangzhou University (Wenhuilu campus, Yangzhou, China, 119.429731°, 32.395371°). The rams aged 2~3 years were fed 0.7 kg concentrate/day and straw–hay mixtures during the study period following fertility examination. Furthermore, water and mineral blocks were provided freely to the rams. Hu sheep were known to be in estrus all year round. From April to June 2023, ram semen was collected three times a week (a total number of 75 ejaculates) using an artificial vagina. After semen collection, all samples were maintained at 37 °C and transported to the laboratory within 30 min for semen sample quality evaluation, including assessment of volume (0.5 to 1.5 mL), concentration (≥2.5 × 109 spermatozoa/mL) and total motility (≥80%). The qualified semen samples were pooled together for subsequent experiments.
The basic diluent was Tris-based, composed of 3.64 g Tris, 1.82 g citric acid, 0.5 g glucose, 20,000 IU sodium penicillin and streptomycin sulfate for 100 mL of distilled water. The freezing diluent I contained 80% (v/v) basic diluent and 20% (v/v) egg yolk. The freezing diluent II contained 94% (v/v) freezing diluent I and 6% (v/v) glycerol.

2.3. Semen Cryopreservation and Post Thaw

The semen freezing protocol of Hu rams was based on the research results of Wu [14] and improved upon this foundation. In experiment 1, semen samples were diluted at the ratios of 1:1, 1:2, 1:3 and 1:4, respectively, using freezing diluent I. Afterward, the samples were wrapped in a towel and stored at 4 °C for 2.5 h. Subsequently, isothermal freezing diluent II was added in a 1:1 ratio, and the samples were kept at 4 °C for 2.5 h. In experiment 2, semen samples were diluted at ratios of 1:1, 1:2, 1:3 and 1:4, respectively, using freezing diluent I. The samples were then wrapped in a towel and kept at 4 °C for 2.5 h. Subsequently, isothermal freezing diluent II was added at a ratio of 1:2, and the samples were kept at 4 °C for 2.5 h. In experiment 3, for the two-step dilution method, the semen samples were initially diluted at ratios of 1:2 and 1:3, respectively, using freezing diluent I. Afterward, the samples were wrapped in a towel and kept at 4 °C for 2.5 h. Subsequently, isothermal freezing diluent II was added in ratios of 1:1 and 1:2, respectively, and the samples were kept at 4 °C for 2.5 h. For the one-step dilution method, semen samples were diluted at ratios of 1:5 and 1:11, respectively, using freezing diluent II. Afterward, the samples were wrapped in a towel and kept at 4 °C for 5 h. Subsequently, all semen samples were promptly transferred into 0.25 mL straws at 4 °C. All the straws were held 2 cm above the liquid nitrogen for 20 min and then immediately plunged into the liquid nitrogen.
After being stored in liquid nitrogen for at least 1 week, four straws from each group were randomly selected, thawed at 70 °C for 5 s, and then utilized for further investigation and analysis.

2.4. Spermatozoa Motility and Kinetic Parameters Assessment

The spermatozoa motility (TM and PM) and kinetic parameters (VSL, VCL, VAP, ALH and MAD) were analyzed using a computer-assisted spermatozoa analyzer (CASA, ML-608JZ II Mailang, Nanning, China) equipped with a warm stage. Samples were diluted to 3.85 × 107 spermatozoa/mL using a Tris-based diluent and then incubated in a water bath at 37 °C for 3 min. A total of 1.4 µL of semen was placed on a MACRO spermatozoa counting chamber (YA-1, Yucheng, Nanjing, China), and a phase-contrast microscope (ML-800, Mailang, Nanning, China) equipped with a CCD-camera (MD06200C, Mailang, Nanning, China) was used for the assessment. And the CASA software (ML-608JZ II) recorded data at 30 frames per second.

2.5. Spermatozoa Membrane Integrity Assessment

The spermatozoa membrane integrity was analyzed using the hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST). Briefly, the samples were diluted to a concentration of 2 × 108 spermatozoa/mL using a Tris-based diluent and 20 µL of diluted semen sample was added to 200 µL of hypotonic solution (0.245 g of sodium citrate and 0.45 g of fructose dissolved in 50 mL of water). The samples were incubated in a 37 °C water bath for 30 min. After incubation, 1.8 µL of the mixture was spread onto a ruby spermatozoa counting plate and examined under a microscope (CX31, Olympus, Tokyo, Japan) at a magnification of 400×. A total of 200 spermatozoa per group were assessed. Spermatozoa with a curled tail were considered to have intact plasma membrane.

2.6. Spermatozoa Acrosome Integrity Assessment

The spermatozoa acrosome integrity was assessed using FITC-PNA combined with PI fluorescence staining. Briefly, the samples were diluted to 3.21 × 108 spermatozoa/mL using a Tris-based diluent, and 100 µL diluted samples were mixed with 2 µL of FITC-PNA (200 µg/mL) and 2 µL of PI (0.5 mg/mL). The samples were incubated at 37 °C for 10 min in the dark and then mixed by adding 700 µL of PBS. They were immediately assayed for spermatozoa acrosome integrity using flow cytometry (Beckman Coulter, Shanghai, China). Flow cytometry was configured to detect 10,000 spermatozoa, and those exhibiting FITC−/PI+ and FITC−/PI− were counted as spermatozoa with intact acrosomes.

2.7. Spermatozoa ROS Level Assessment

The spermatozoa ROS level was detected using the DCFH-DC probe. Briefly, the samples were diluted to 3.21 × 108 spermatozoa/mL using a Tris-based diluent, and 50 µL of diluted semen was mixed with 2 µL of DCFH-DC (10 mM). We incubated the sample at 37 °C in the dark for 30 min, then added PBS to wash the sample. The sample was then resuspended in 400 μL of PBS, and the fluorescence intensity was measured using a multifunctional microplate reader with excitation at 488 nm and emission at 525 nm. The level of ROS was indicated by fluorescence intensity.

2.8. Statistical Analysis

All data were analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS 25.0 for windows; SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). The Shapiro–Wilk normality analysis was performed to detect whether the data conform to the normal distribution. The data showed normal distribution, and the Duncan test by one-way ANOVA tests was performed to assess the difference in these parameters. All results were expressed as the Mean ± SEM, and a p value of <0.05 (p < 0.05) was considered significant. All experiments were performed with five replicates.

3. Results

3.1. Effect of Different Dilution Ratios of Diluent I under the Condition of 1:1 Dilution of Diluent II on Spermatozoa Motility and Kinetic Parameters after Cryopreservation

As shown in Table 1, the post-thawed spermatozoa TM, PM and MAD of the 1:2 group were the highest and significantly greater (p < 0.05) than those of the 1:1 and 1:4 groups. However, they were not significantly higher (p > 0.05) than those of the 1:3 group. The post-thawed spermatozoa VSL of the 1:2 group was the highest and significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the 1:1 group. However, it was not significantly higher (p > 0.05) than the 1:3 and 1:4 groups. Additionally, these groups did not show significant (p > 0.05) differences from each other in terms of spermatozoa VCL, VAP and ALH.

3.2. Effect of Different Dilution Ratios of Diluent I under the Condition of 1:2 Dilution of Diluent II on Spermatozoa Motility and Kinetic Parameters after Cryopreservation

The post-thawed spermatozoa TM and PM of the 1:3 group were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of the other groups, as shown in Table 2. The post-thawed spermatozoa VCL, VAP and ALH of the 1:3 group were the highest and significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of the 1:2 group, but they were not significantly higher (p > 0.05) than the 1:1 and 1:4 groups. The post-thawed spermatozoa MAD of the 1:3 group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the 1:1 group, but it was not significantly higher (p > 0.05) than that of the 1:2 and 1:4 groups. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in spermatozoa VSL between the groups.

3.3. Effect of Different Dilution Methods and Ratios of Diluent on Spermatozoa Motility and Kinetic Parameters after Cryopreservation

As shown in Table 3, the post-thawed spermatozoa TM and PM of the two-step group (1:3, 1:2) were the highest and significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of the other groups. The post-thawed spermatozoa VCL, VAP and ALH of the two-step group (1:3, 1:2) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of the one-step groups (1:5 and 1:11). However, they were not significantly higher (p > 0.05) than the two-step group (1:2, 1:1). The post-thawed spermatozoa VSL of the two-step group (1:3, 1:2) was the highest and significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the two-step group (1:2, 1:1). The post-thawed spermatozoa MAD of the two-step group (1:3, 1:2) was the highest and significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the one-step group 1:11.

3.4. Effect of Different Dilution Methods and Ratios of Diluent on Spermatozoa Membrane Integrity after Cryopreservation

As shown in Figure 1A, the post-thawed spermatozoa plasma membrane integrity of the two-step group (1:3, 1:2) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the other groups. As shown in Figure 1B, the blue arrow (a) represents an intact spermatozoa membrane, and the red arrow (b) represents a damaged spermatozoa membrane.

3.5. Effect of Different Dilution Methods and Ratios of Diluent on Spermatozoa Acrosome Integrity after Cryopreservation

As shown in Figure 2, the post-thawed spermatozoa acrosome integrity of the two-step group (1:3, 1:2) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the other groups. The post-thawed spermatozoa acrosome integrity of the two-step group (1:2, 1:1) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the one-step groups (1:5 and 1:11). The post-thawed spermatozoa acrosome integrity of the one-step group 1:5 was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the one-step group 1:11.

3.6. Effect of Different Dilution Methods and Ratios of Diluent on Spermatozoa ROS Level after Cryopreservation

As shown in Figure 3, the post-thawed spermatozoa ROS levels of the two-step groups (1:2, 1:1 and 1:3, 1:2) were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of the one-step groups (1:5 and 1:11), but there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the two-step groups.

4. Discussion

Semen dilution simulates the living environment of spermatozoa in vitro. By adding an appropriate diluent, it is possible to reduce the spermatozoa movement rate, inhibit the spermatozoa metabolism, prolong the spermatozoa survival time, increase the semen volume and improve the spermatozoa utilization, thereby increasing the number of breeding female animals [19,20,21]. In experiments I and II, the post-thawed spermatozoa TM and PM of the 1:1 group were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of the other groups. This may be due to the high concentration of spermatozoa diluted by a factor of two times, the excessive accumulation of metabolic waste and the inability of the buffer material in the diluent to maintain its balance [22]. On the other hand, it may be caused by the rapid consumption of nutrients such as sugar in the diluent [10]. In experiment I, the post-thawed spermatozoa TM and PM of the 1:4 group were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of the 1:2 group. In experiment II, the post-thawed spermatozoa TM and PM of the 1:4 group were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of the 1:3 group. This may be due to the fact that a high dilution of semen can cause the glutamic–oxaloacetic transaminase enzyme in spermatozoa to leak out, leading to the death of spermatozoa [23]. This is consistent with Wang’s [24] findings on pig semen, which is highly diluted and causes the leakage of biological enzymes.
In experiment III, the post-thawed spermatozoa in the one-step group 1:11 exhibited significantly lower (p < 0.05) plasma membrane integrity and acrosome integrity compared to the other groups. This could be attributed to the reduced antifreeze performance of spermatozoa caused by the higher dilution rate in the one-step dilution method, or it could be due to the absence of essential seminal plasma components when the dilution rate is excessively high [25]. This is consistent with the findings of Wales [26] and Ashworth [27], indicating that high dilution impacts the efficacy of protective components in seminal plasma and the surface structure of the spermatozoa membrane, leading to a reduction in the freezing effect of semen. There is also a saying that the phenomenon is referred to as the dilution effect, which reduces the concentration of natural antioxidants, low-molecular-weight proteins and fatty acids in semen. These substances are beneficial for maintaining the structure and function of the spermatozoa membrane. Excessive dilution of semen can harm the structure of spermatozoa, cause spermatozoa to clump together, significantly shorten the effective preservation time of semen, and subsequently reduce the motility, metabolic activity and fertilization ability of spermatozoa [28,29]. Catt [30] reported that adding seminal plasma had a more positive effect on the cryopreservation of pig semen. Prathalingam [31] reported that the acrosome integrity of bovine semen decreased after thawing when a higher dilution rate was used in cryopreservation. Prochowska [32] reported that the dilution of semen can affect spermatozoa PM and functional integrity in cat semen. Castellini [33] reported that diluting rabbit semen by more than five times will lead to spermatozoa degeneration. These results are consistent with the findings that the integrity of spermatozoa plasma membrane and acrosome decreased as a result of high dilution in this study. The same results were obtained in the changes of spermatozoa membrane integrity and acrosome integrity in the one-step group 1:11. High dilution damages the spermatozoa structure.
In experiment III, the post-thawed spermatozoa TM and PM of the two-step group (1:3, 1:2) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of the other groups. Due to the different dilution ratios, the glycerol concentration differs in each diluted group. Therefore, it is difficult to differentiate between the effects of dilution ratios and glycerol concentration in the experiment. On the one hand, this may be due to the fact that a glycerol concentration of 4% in this group is most appropriate for this dilution method and ratio. Proper concentration of glycerol not only enhances the frost resistance of spermatozoa but also prevents the toxic effects of high glycerol concentrations. Glycerol binds to metal ions, dehydrates the cells, reduces the total volume of ice during water solidification, and alleviates the growth of ice crystals, and ultimately reduces the damage caused by freezing [34,35]. On the other hand, this effect may be attributed to the two-step dilution method, which reduces the duration of contact with the spermatozoa and is less harmful when exposed to spermatozoa at low temperatures [36]. This is because the temperature of the diluent is higher when the one-step dilution method is used, which increases the toxic effect of glycerol. In experiment III, the post-thawed spermatozoa ROS level was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the one-step groups (1:5 and 1:11) compared to the other groups. The increase in temperature at the beginning of the process, along with the addition of a glycerol-containing dilution, may have extended the interaction between spermatozoa and glycerol [37]. This prolonged exposure could have intensified the toxic effect of glycerol on spermatozoa, leading to the generation of oxidative stress and an increase in ROS levels.

5. Conclusions

In conclusion, the two-step dilution (1:3, 1:2) was found to be the most suitable method and ratio for diluting Hu ram semen after cryopreservation. Preserving semen using this dilution method and ratio can effectively enhance the motility parameters and functional integrity of spermatozoa. An excessively high or low spermatozoa concentration will not be conducive to the preservation of Hu ram semen.

Author Contributions

L.Z.: conceptualization, methodology, investigation, formal analysis, writing—original draft. X.W. and Y.S.: conceptualization, writing—original draft, writing—review and editing. C.J. and X.S.: methodology, investigation. J.W. and T.S.: formal analysis, writing—review and editing. Y.L.: writing—review and editing, visualization, supervision, project administration. All authors have read, revised, and approved the final manuscript. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research was funded by [Jiangsu Modern Agricultural Industrial Technology System Construction Project] grant number [JATS [2023]448]. And The APC was funded by [Jiangsu Modern Agricultural Industrial Technology System Construction Project].

Institutional Review Board Statement

All experimental procedures conform to the Yangzhou University for the protection of experimental animals (ID: 202206132; 1 June 2022; Yangzhou, China).

Informed Consent Statement

Not applicable.

Data Availability Statement

All data sets collected and analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author (Y.L.) upon reasonable request.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

References

  1. Mason, S.J. Current review of artificial insemination in dogs. Vet. Clin. N. Am. Small Anim. Pract. 2018, 48, 567–580. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  2. Yeste, M.; Rodríguez-Gil, J.E.; Bonet, S. Artificial insemination with frozen-thawed boar sperm. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 2017, 84, 802–813. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  3. Avanzi, B.R.; Farrás, M.C.; Melo, C.M.; Alvarenga, M.A.; Dell’Aqua, J.A.; Medeiros, A.S.L.; Araújo, G.H.M.; Papa, F.O. Efficiency of different cooling and storage systems for maintaining equine semen viability in a hot environment. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 2006, 94, 152–154. [Google Scholar]
  4. Weiss, R.R.; Vianna, B.C.; Muradás, P.R. Inseminação eméguas com sêmen in natura e diluído. Arch. Vet. Sci. 2003, 8, 19–22. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  5. Macan, R.C.; Camargo, C.E.; Zielinski, B.L.; Cardoso, N.; Lara, N.; Bergstein-Galan, T.G.; Weiss, R.R.; Kozicki, L.E. Timed artificial insemination in crossbred mares: Reproductive efficiency and costs. Reprod. Domest. Anim. 2021, 56, 459–466. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  6. Yeste, M. Recent advances in boar sperm cryopreservation: State of the art and current perspectives. Reprod. Domest. Anim. 2015, 50, 71–79. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  7. García-Vázquez, F.A.; Mellagi, A.; Ulguim, R.R.; Hernández-Caravaca, I.; Llamas-López, P.J.; Bortolozzo, F.P. Post-cervical artificial insemination in porcine: The technique that came to stay. Theriogenology 2019, 129, 37–45. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  8. Ballester, J.; Johannisson, A.; Saravia, F.; Håård, M.; Gustafsson, H.; Bajramovic, D.; Rodriguez-Martinez, H. Post-thaw viability of bull AI-doses with low-sperm numbers. Theriogenology 2007, 68, 934–943. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  9. Hussaini, S.; Zhandi, M.; Shahneh, Z.A.; Sharafi, M. High dilution rate of bull semen affects cryopreservation outcomes: Kinematic and flow cytometric parameters. Iran J. Vet. Med. 2018, 4, 377–382. [Google Scholar]
  10. Bonato, M.; Smith, M.A.M.J.; Malecki, I.A.; Cloete, S.W.P. The effect of dilution rate and successive semen collections on sperm quality and sexual motivation of sexually mature South African Merino rams. Trop. Anim. Health Prod. 2021, 53, 182. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  11. Mann, T. The Biochemistry of Semen and of the Male Reproductive Tract; Methuen and Co.: London, UK, 1964; p. 727. [Google Scholar]
  12. Alvarez, M.; Anel-Lopez, L.; Boixo, J.C.; Chamorro, C.; Neila-Montero, M.; Montes-Garrido, R.; Paz, P.; Anel, L. Current challenges in sheep artificial insemination: A particular insight. Reprod. Domest. Anim. 2019, 54, 32–40. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  13. Hayden, S.S.; Blanchard, T.L.; Brinsko, S.P.; Varner, D.D.; Hinrichs, K.; Love, C.C. Pregnancy rates in mares inseminated with 0.5 or 1 million sperm using hysteroscopic or transrectally guided deep-horn insemination techniques. Theriogenology 2012, 78, 914–920. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  14. Wu, C.; Dai, J.; Zhang, S.; Sun, L.; Liu, Y.; Zhang, D. Effect of thawing rates and antioxidants on semen cryopreservation in Hu sheep. Biopreserv. Biobank. 2021, 19, 204–209. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  15. Yang, H.; Wan, Z.; Jin, Y.; Wang, F.; Zhang, Y. SMAD2 regulates testicular development and testosterone synthesis in Hu sheep. Theriogenology 2021, 174, 139–148. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  16. Chen, Y.; Meng, F.; Liu, Y.; Zhu, C.; Ling, Y.; Liu, C.; Li, L.; Liu, Y.; He, X.; Cao, J.; et al. Effects of resveratrol on DLD and NDUFB9 decrease in frozen semen of Mongolian sheep. Cryobiology 2023, 114, 104791. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  17. He, Y.; Wang, K.; Zhao, X.; Zhang, Y.; Ma, Y.; Hu, J. Differential proteome association study of freeze-thaw damage in ram sperm. Cryobiology 2016, 72, 60–68. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  18. Fang, Y.; Zhao, C.; Xiang, H.; Jia, G.; Zhong, R. Melatonin improves cryopreservation of ram sperm by inhibiting mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening. Reprod. Domest. Anim. 2020, 55, 1240–1249. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  19. Faigl, V.; Vass, N.; Jávor, A.; Kulcsár, M.; Solti, L.; Amiridis, G.; Cseh, S. Artificial insemination of small ruminants—A review. Acta Vet. Hung. 2012, 60, 115–129. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  20. Jimoh, O.A.; Akinola, M.O.; Oyeyemi, B.F.; Oyeyemi, W.A.; Ayodele, S.O.; Omoniyi, I.S.; Okin-Aminu, H.O. Potential of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) to maintain oxidative stability of rooster semen for artificial insemination. J. Anim. Sci. Technol. 2021, 63, 46–57. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  21. Di-Iorio, M.; Rusco, G.; Iampietro, R.; Colonna, M.A.; Zaniboni, L.; Cerolini, S.; Iaffaldano, N. Finding an effective freezing protocol for turkey semen: Benefits of ficoll as non-permeant cryoprotectant and 1:4 as dilution rate. Animals 2020, 10, 421. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  22. Griggers, S.; Paccamonti, D.L.; Thompson, R.A.; Eilts, B.E. The effects of ph, osmolarity and urine contamination on equine spermatozoal motility. Theriogenology 2001, 56, 613–622. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  23. Pace, M.M.; Graham, E.F. The release of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase from bovine spermatozoa as a test method of assessing semen quality and fertility. Biol. Reprod. 1970, 3, 140–146. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  24. Wang, G. Study of the Effect of Puerarin on Pig Semen Preservation Atroom Temperature; Anhui Agriculture University: Hefei, China, 2023. [Google Scholar]
  25. Patil, S.; Kumar, P.; Singh, G.; Bala, R.; Jerome, A.; Patil, C.S.; Kumar, D.; Singh, S.; Sharma, R.K. ‘Semen dilution effect’ on sperm variables and conception rate in buffalo. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 2020, 214, 106304. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  26. Wales, R.G.; White, I.G. Viability of diluted dog spermatozoa in vitro. J. Reprod. Fertil. 1963, 5, 67–76. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  27. Ashworth, P.J.; Harrison, R.A.; Miller, N.G.; Plummer, J.M.; Watson, P.F. Survival of ram spermatozoa at high dilution: Protective effect of simple constituents of culture media as compared with seminal plasma. Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 1994, 6, 173–180. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  28. Maxwell, W.M.; Johnson, L.A. Chlortetracycline analysis of boar spermatozoa after incubation, flow cytometric sorting, cooling, or cryopreservation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 1997, 46, 408–418. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  29. Hayden, S.S.; Blanchard, T.L.; Brinsko, S.P.; Varner, D.D.; Hinrichs, K.; Love, C.C. The “dilution effect” in stallion sperm. Theriogenology 2015, 83, 772–777. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  30. Catt, S.L.; O’Brien, J.K.; Maxwell, W.; Evans, G. Assessment of ram and boar spermatozoa during cell-sorting by flow cytometry. Reprod. Domest. Anim. 2010, 32, 251–258. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  31. Prathalingam, N.S.; Holt, W.V.; Revell, S.G.; Jones, S.; Watson, P.F. Dilution of spermatozoa results in improved viability following a 24 h storage period but decreased acrosome integrity following cryopreservation. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 2006, 91, 11–22. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  32. Prochowska, S.; Niżański, W.; Ochota, M.; Partyka, A. Effect of dilution rate on feline urethral sperm motility, viability, and DNA integrity. Theriogenology 2014, 82, 1273–1280. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  33. Castellini, C.; Lattaioli, P.; Moroni, M.; Minelli, A. Effect of seminal plasma on the characteristics and fertility of rabbit spermatozoa. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 2000, 63, 275–282. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  34. Lohmann, W.; Fowler, C.F.; Moss, A.J.J.R.; Perkins, W.H. Some remarks about the effect of glycerol on cells during freezing and thawing: Electron-spin resonance investigations concerning this effect. Experientia 1964, 20, 290. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  35. Bredderman, P.J.; Foote, R.H. Volume of stressed bull spermatozoa and protoplasmic droplets, and the relationship of cell size to motilityd fertility. J. Anim. Sci. 1969, 28, 496–501. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  36. Gil, J.; Lundeheim, N.; Söderquist, L.; Rodriíuez-Martínez, H. Influence of extender, temperature, and addition of glycerol on post-thaw sperm parameters in ram semen. Theriogenology 2003, 59, 1241–1255. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  37. Macedo, S.; Bliebernicht, M.; Rocha, A. Effect of two different non-permeable cryoprotectants (NPC) on equine sperm viability after vitrification. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 2018, 194, 18–19. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Animals 14 00907 g001
Figure 1. Assessment of plasma membrane integrity. (A) Effect of different dilution methods and ratios of diluent on spermatozoa membrane integrity after cryopreservation. Different lowercase letters show significant differences (p < 0.05). (B) Microscopic results of sperm in HOST experiment. (a) Tail curl represents intact membrane and (b) tail non-curl represents damaged membrane.
Figure 1. Assessment of plasma membrane integrity. (A) Effect of different dilution methods and ratios of diluent on spermatozoa membrane integrity after cryopreservation. Different lowercase letters show significant differences (p < 0.05). (B) Microscopic results of sperm in HOST experiment. (a) Tail curl represents intact membrane and (b) tail non-curl represents damaged membrane.
Animals 14 00907 g001
Animals 14 00907 g002
Figure 2. Effect of different dilution methods and ratios of diluent on spermatozoa acrosome integrity after cryopreservation. Different lowercase letters show significant differences (p < 0.05).
Figure 2. Effect of different dilution methods and ratios of diluent on spermatozoa acrosome integrity after cryopreservation. Different lowercase letters show significant differences (p < 0.05).
Animals 14 00907 g002
Animals 14 00907 g003
Figure 3. Effect of different dilution methods and ratios of diluent on spermatozoa ROS level after cryopreservation. Different lowercase letters show significant differences (p < 0.05).
Figure 3. Effect of different dilution methods and ratios of diluent on spermatozoa ROS level after cryopreservation. Different lowercase letters show significant differences (p < 0.05).
Animals 14 00907 g003
Table 1. Effect of different dilution ratios of diluent I under the condition of 1:1 dilution of diluent II on spermatozoa motility and kinetic parameters after cryopreservation.
Table 1. Effect of different dilution ratios of diluent I under the condition of 1:1 dilution of diluent II on spermatozoa motility and kinetic parameters after cryopreservation.
Different Dilution Ratios of Diluent ITM (%)PM (%)VSL (µm/s)VCL (µm/s)VAP (µm/s)ALH (µm)MAD (°/s)
1:150.33 ± 1.44 c31.11 ± 0.99 c29.28 ± 1.96 b48.07 ± 2.7833.99 ± 1.9714.08 ± 0.8227.96 ± 0.80 c
1:276.86 ± 1.29 a55.16 ± 0.87 a34.11 ± 0.59 a53.03 ± 0.7837.50 ± 0.5515.53 ± 0.2355.71 ± 0.12 a
1:371.44 ± 1.57 ab52.67 ± 0.43 ab32.68 ± 1.62 ab50.46 ± 1.5035.68 ± 1.0614.78 ± 0.4451.67 ± 3.36 ab
1:470.13 ± 2.25 b49.65 ± 1.89 b31.97 ± 0.53 ab47.88 ± 0.8833.86 ± 0.6214.02 ± 0.2647.76 ± 1.02 b
TM, total motility; PM, progressive motility; VSL, straight-line velocity; VCL, curvilinear velocity; VAP, average path velocity; ALH, amplitude of lateral head displacement; MAD, average motion degree. Different lowercase letter superscripts in the same column show significant differences (p < 0.05).
Table 2. Effect of different dilution ratios of diluent I under the condition of 1:2 dilution of diluent II on spermatozoa motility and kinetic parameters after cryopreservation.
Table 2. Effect of different dilution ratios of diluent I under the condition of 1:2 dilution of diluent II on spermatozoa motility and kinetic parameters after cryopreservation.
Different Dilution Ratios of Diluent ITM (%)PM (%)VSL (µm/s)VCL (µm/s)VAP (µm/s)ALH (µm)MAD (°/s)
1:169.51 ± 0.74 c49.10 ± 0.52 c33.43 ± 2.1455.04 ± 1.59 ab38.92 ± 1.12 ab16.12 ± 0.46 ab40.91 ± 3.21 b
1:273.45 ± 0.39 b56.08 ± 0.53 b32.89 ± 0.5352.50 ± 1.40 b37.12 ± 0.99 b15.38 ± 0.41 b51.03 ± 2.48 ab
1:379.86 ± 0.92 a63.44 ± 1.55 a36.54 ± 1.3858.06 ± 1.40 a41.05 ± 0.99 a17.00 ± 0.41 a58.89 ± 5.59 a
1:471.74 ± 1.49 bc56.50 ± 1.16 b35.57 ± 0.4455.77 ± 0.88 ab39.44 ± 0.62 ab16.34 ± 0.26 ab52.97 ± 3.02 ab
TM, total motility; PM, progressive motility; VSL, straight-line velocity; VCL, curvilinear velocity; VAP, average path velocity; ALH, amplitude of lateral head displacement; MAD, average motion degree. Different lowercase letter superscripts in the same column show significant differences (p < 0.05).
Table 3. Effect of different dilution methods and ratios of diluent on spermatozoa motility and kinetic parameters after cryopreservation.
Table 3. Effect of different dilution methods and ratios of diluent on spermatozoa motility and kinetic parameters after cryopreservation.
Different Dilution Methods and RatiosTM (%)PM (%)VSL (µm/s)VCL (µm/s)VAP (µm/s)ALH (µm)MAD (°/s)
Two-step: 1:2, 1:1 77.01 ± 2.07 b60.83 ± 1.89 b38.08 ± 1.23 b57.68 ± 1.84 ab40.78 ± 1.30 ab16.89 ± 0.54 ab49.19 ± 4.98 ab
Two-step: 1:3, 1:2 85.44 ± 2.07 a72.68 ± 0.59 a42.28 ± 0.34 a62.41 ± 0.66 a44.13 ± 0.46 a18.28 ± 0.19 a53.90 ± 1.46 a
One-step: 1:5 78.83 ± 1.24 b60.57 ± 1.40 b40.14 ± 1.15 ab56.34 ± 2.33 b39.83 ± 1.65 b16.50 ± 0.68 b42.38 ± 1.73 ab
One-step: 1:11 76.83 ± 1.71 b60.09 ± 1.01 b40.79 ± 0.91 ab55.47 ± 1.44 b39.22 ± 1.02 b16.24 ± 0.42 b39.07 ± 5.86 b
TM, total motility; PM, progressive motility; VSL, straight-line velocity; VCL, curvilinear velocity; VAP, average path velocity; ALH, amplitude of lateral head displacement; MAD, average motion degree. Different lowercase letter superscripts in the same column show significant differences (p < 0.05).
Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Zhang, L.; Wang, X.; Jiang, C.; Sohail, T.; Sun, Y.; Sun, X.; Wang, J.; Li, Y. Effect of Different Dilution Methods and Ratios of Ram Semen on Sperm Parameters after Cryopreservation. Animals 2024, 14, 907. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14060907

AMA Style

Zhang L, Wang X, Jiang C, Sohail T, Sun Y, Sun X, Wang J, Li Y. Effect of Different Dilution Methods and Ratios of Ram Semen on Sperm Parameters after Cryopreservation. Animals. 2024; 14(6):907. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14060907

Chicago/Turabian Style

Zhang, Liuming, Xuyang Wang, Caiyu Jiang, Tariq Sohail, Yuxuan Sun, Xiaomei Sun, Jian Wang, and Yongjun Li. 2024. "Effect of Different Dilution Methods and Ratios of Ram Semen on Sperm Parameters after Cryopreservation" Animals 14, no. 6: 907. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14060907

Note that from the first issue of 2016, this journal uses article numbers instead of page numbers. See further details here.

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop