Rhodiola sachalinensis Polysaccharides as a Novel Cryoprotectant Improves Yak Frozen-Thawed Sperm Quality and...

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Cryopreservation Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Rhodiola sachalinensis polysaccharides (RSP) possess antioxidant properties, scavenging free radicals and preventing lipid peroxidation.
• Cryopreservation of yak semen can lead to oxidative stress and reduced sperm quality.
• Optimizing freezing extenders is crucial for preserving sperm viability and fertility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the optimal concentration of RSP as a freezing extender additive for yak semen.
• To evaluate the effects of RSP supplementation on post-thaw yak sperm quality parameters.
• To assess the impact of RSP on the fertility and developmental capacity of cryopreserved yak spermatozoa.

Main Methods:

• Yak semen was diluted in a commercial extender supplemented with varying RSP concentrations (0–0.1 g/L).
• Sperm quality parameters including motility, kinematics, membrane and acrosome integrity, antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, GSH-Px, CAT), MDA, ROS, MMP, and ATP were analyzed post-thaw.
• Fertilization efficiency and subsequent embryo development were evaluated.

Main Results:

• The 0.06 g/L RSP group showed significant improvements in total and progressive motility, kinematics, T-AOC, SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, MMP, and ATP levels compared to the control.
• MDA and ROS levels were significantly reduced in the 0.06 g/L RSP group.
• Fertilization efficiency and developmental capacity were notably higher in the 0.06 g/L RSP group.

Conclusions:

• Supplementing yak semen freezing extenders with 0.06 g/L RSP is an effective strategy to enhance cryopreservation outcomes.
• RSP ameliorates oxidative stress and preserves sperm function during cryopreservation, improving fertility potential.
• This finding offers valuable insights for improving yak artificial insemination programs.