Morphological characterization of ejaculated cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis) sperm

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Reproductive Biology
• Primate Research

Background:

• Cynomolgus monkeys are vital models in biomedical research.
• Establishing baseline data for sperm morphology and morphometrics is crucial for interpreting experimental results.
• Previous studies have lacked comprehensive reference values for these parameters in non-experimental cynomolgus monkeys.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish reference values for sperm morphological abnormalities in cynomolgus monkeys.
• To determine reference values for sperm head dimensions using computer-aided analysis.
• To provide a baseline for assessing sperm quality in this primate model.

Main Methods:

• Semen samples were obtained via electroejaculation from 14 cynomolgus monkeys.
• Spermatozoa underwent visual analysis for morphology and computer-aided morphometric analysis.
• Standardized staining (Harris's Haematoxylin) and analysis techniques were employed.

Main Results:

• 83% of sperm were morphologically normal; tail defects were most common (11%).
• Head abnormalities were infrequent (0.4%), while midpiece imperfections occurred in all individuals (mean 5%).
• Sperm head dimensions exhibited high homogeneity (CV < 7%), with perimeter, length, width, L/W ratio, and shape factors being key parameters.

Conclusions:

• This study establishes crucial reference values for cynomolgus monkey sperm morphology and morphometrics.
• The data will aid in the accurate interpretation of reproductive studies involving this species.
• Variations observed between individual monkeys highlight the importance of species-specific reference ranges.