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Updated: May 28, 2026
08:58
Fluorimetric Techniques for the Assessment of Sperm Membranes
Published on: November 28, 2018
Association Between Sperm Metabolites and Field Fertility in Angus Bulls
Samantha R Roberts1, Sarah E Moorey1, Adella B Lonas1
1Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA.
Metabolites
|May 26, 2026
Summary
Metabolomic analysis identified specific sperm metabolites linked to bull fertility. Kynurenine, xanthine, ophthalmate, tricarballylic acid, and creatinine may serve as biomarkers for diagnosing subfertile bulls, aiding beef cattle reproductive management.
Area of Science:
- * Reproductive biology and metabolomics in livestock.
- * Biochemical analysis of sperm function.
Background:
- * Subfertility in beef bulls causes significant economic losses in cattle production.
- * Identifying causes and diagnostic tools for bull subfertility is crucial.
- * Sperm metabolism may offer insights into fertility variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To investigate metabolomic differences in sperm from bulls with varying field fertility.
- * To identify potential metabolic biomarkers associated with beef bull fertility.
Main Methods:
- * Sperm samples from 15 Angus bulls were analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.
- * Metabolite levels were correlated with a composite field fertility index (CFI).
- * Statistical analysis identified linear and quadratic relationships and differences between high and low fertility groups.
Main Results:
- * Seventy-five metabolites were detected in bull sperm.
- * Kynurenine, xanthine, and ophthalmate showed quadratic relationships with fertility.
- * Tricarballylic acid and creatinine exhibited negative linear relationships with fertility; N-acetylglutamate and N-acetylglutamine were higher in low-fertility bulls.
Conclusions:
- * Specific metabolites (kynurenine, xanthine, ophthalmate, tricarballylic acid, creatinine) are potential fertility markers.
- * These findings suggest novel diagnostic approaches for beef bull subfertility.
- * Further research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for reproductive failure in cattle.
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