Positive effect of natural antioxidant oregonin from Alnus incana bark on ram semen quality stored at 5 degrees C for 48 h

摘要

The maintenance of high vitality and motility of ram's spermatozoa during storage at low temperatures has a crucial role for successful fertilization. This study evaluates the effect of the natural antioxidant oregonin on ram semen quality, stored at 5 degrees C for 48 h. Eighteen ejaculates (three repetitions for 6 ejaculates) from three local breed rams, collecting by artificial vagina, with volume > 1 ml, concentration > 1 x 10 9/ml and mass motility >3.5 were used for chilling. Each ejaculate was separated in two equal parts, diluted with Tris-glucose-glycerol-egg yolk extender with no oregonin or supplemented with 100 mu M oregonin until adjustment of the sperm concentration to 200 x 10 6 cells/ml and stored at 5 degrees C for 48 h. The semen quality assessment was based on the main kinematic (by CASA analysis), morphological parameters (by BrightVit kit staining) and mitochondrial status (by MitoView staining) of the spermatozoa on 0, 24 and 48 h of storage, and on in vivo fertility test.