Supplementation of Avian Semen Extenders with Antioxidants to Improve Semen Quality—Is It an Effective Strategy?

Abstract

Oxidative stress in sperm is a phenomenon related to the increasing rate of oxidation of cellular components and the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in bird sperm cell membranes renders these cells particularly susceptible to lipid peroxidation (LPO). Therefore, to ensure the proper functioning of cells, it is necessary to have a balance between the formation of ROS and the protective action of the antioxidant system. This review aims firstly to briefly introduce the antioxidant system characteristics of avian semen. Secondly, we summarize the recent knowledge regarding progress in extender supplementation using antioxidants and other compounds to improve avian semen quality parameters and fertility rates. The review focuses on enzymes, vitamins, amino acids, proteins, some plant extracts, and other compounds that can be used to supplement the extenders to reduce the formation of oxidants in poultry semen and maintain its quality and enhance its fertility.

Effect of prooxidants and chelator Desferal on the oxidative status and sperm motility of Muscovy semen

“…As direct interaction with ROS [ 49 ] or as a cofactor of glutathione peroxidase [ 50 ] it neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS), including H 2 O 2 and lipid peroxides. It has been found that avian semen extenders enriched with GSH, preserved the viability of sperm cells, plasma membrane integrity, functional, kinetic and fertility parameters, suppressed OS in diluted fresh and post-thawed semen [ 28 , [51] , [52] , [53] ].…”

“…For this reason, the application of antioxidants is a good strategy to preserve reproductive capabilities. The effects of various antioxidants, either dietary supplemented or as ingredients of extenders, on avian semen characteristics are well studied [ 12 , 15 , [25] , [26] , [27] , [28] ].…”

Quercetin: Putative effects on the function of cryopreserved sperms in domestic animals

“…This might confirm that the quercetin is situated in the midpiece of spermatozoa. Several factors affect the antioxidant action he quercetin, including extender, animal species (Longobardi et al, 2020; Santiani Acosta et al, 2013), the antioxidant type and concentration (Partyka & Niżański, 2021).…”

Poultry genetic heritage cryopreservation and reconstruction: advancement and future challenges

“…Therefore, external antioxidants and free radical scavenger compound have been assumed to be promising extender supplementation [ 50 ]. The effectiveness of antioxidants including flavonoid quercetin [ 51 ], Mito-TEMPO [ 52 ], serine [ 53 ], SOD [ 54 ], coenzyme Q10 [ 55 ], melatonin [ 56 , 57 ], L -Carnitine [ 58 ], hyaluronic acid [ 59 ], Vitamin E and CAT [ 60 ], herbal extracts like Achillea millefolium [ 61 ], and N-acetyl- L -cysteineare [ 62 ] proved to be effective in decreasing oxidative stress level, increasing membrane functionality, acrosome integrity, and motility of post-thawed rooster sperm.…”