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Dimethylacetamide and trehalose for ram semen cryopreservation
Rodrigo Freitas Bittencourt1, Eunice Oba2, Carmo Emanuel de Almeida Biscarde1
1School of Veterinary and Animal Science Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros, 500, Salvador, Bahia, 40170-110, Brazil.
Cryobiology
|November 5, 2018
Summary
Dimethylacetamide (DMA) and trehalose (TRE) were tested for ram semen cryopreservation. While glycerol (GLY) was superior, 3% DMA showed promise for fertility without compromising results.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Animal Science
- Cryopreservation Technology
Background:
- Cryopreservation of ram semen is crucial for genetic preservation and artificial insemination programs.
- Dimethylacetamide (DMA) is explored as a potential cryoprotective agent, with trehalose (TRE) investigated for synergistic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cryoprotective efficacy of dimethylacetamide (DMA) at varying concentrations (3% and 6%) and its interaction with trehalose (TRE).
- To assess the in vivo fertility of ram semen cryopreserved using DMA-based extenders.
- To compare DMA-based extenders with a traditional glycerol (GLY) control.
Main Methods:
- Ram semen was cryopreserved using five treatment groups: 6% GLY, 3% DMA, 6% DMA, 3% DMA + TRE, and 6% DMA + TRE.
- Post-thaw sperm kinetics were analyzed using a computerized system.
- Sperm viability was assessed via propidium iodide, JC-1, and FITC-PSA staining to evaluate plasma membrane, mitochondrial, and acrosomal integrity, respectively.
Main Results:
- The 6% glycerol extender maintained superior sperm characteristics compared to DMA-based extenders.
- Semen cryopreserved with 3% DMA demonstrated acceptable fertility rates, suggesting it as a viable alternative.
- Trehalose addition negatively impacted sperm kinetics but improved plasma and acrosomal membrane integrity.
Conclusions:
- Glycerol remains the most effective cryoprotectant for ram semen, preserving key sperm parameters.
- Dimethylacetamide, particularly at 3%, offers a potentially safe and effective alternative for ram semen cryopreservation regarding fertility.
- Trehalose may offer benefits for membrane integrity in cryopreserved ram semen, despite kinetic reductions.
