Boar Sperm Cryopreservation Improvement Using Semen Extender Modification by Dextran and Pentaisomaltose

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Science
• Biotechnology
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• Long-term boar sperm storage is challenging, necessitating improved cryopreservation techniques.
• Glycerol, a common cryoprotective agent, requires modification in semen extenders to enhance cryosurvival.
• Polysaccharides offer potential as biocompatible, non-toxic alternatives or supplements to glycerol.

Purpose of the Study:

• To reduce glycerol concentration in boar semen extenders by substituting it with polysaccharides.
• To evaluate the efficacy of novel polysaccharides, dextran and pentaisomaltose, in boar semen cryopreservation.
• To investigate the interaction of these polysaccharides with boar sperm surface proteins using in silico and in vitro methods.

Main Methods:

• In silico molecular docking and dynamics simulations to predict polysaccharide-spermadhesin interactions.
• In vitro assessment of boar sperm parameters: motility, viability, mitochondrial activity, acrosome, and DNA integrity post-thaw.
• Comparative analysis of glycerol reduction/elimination using dextran and pentaisomaltose in semen extenders.

Main Results:

• In silico analysis revealed stable interactions between pentaisomaltose and the AWN spermadhesin.
• In vitro experiments showed pentaisomaltose improved sperm mitochondrial activity and DNA integrity compared to dextran.
• Partial or complete glycerol substitution with pentaisomaltose enhanced post-thaw sperm quality.

Conclusions:

• Pentaisomaltose is a promising cryoprotective agent for reducing or eliminating glycerol in boar semen extenders.
• The combined in silico and in vitro approach effectively identifies novel cryoprotectants.
• This strategy supports advancements in animal breeding and genetic resource preservation programs.