The Influence of Different Molecular Weight Seminal Plasma Protein Content on Some Fertility Parameters in Boar's Ejaculates

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different percentage of seminal plasma proteins with different molecular weight on sperm motility and fertility parameters (farrowing rate (FR), number of live-born pigs (PBA) per litter and percentage of unsuccessful insemination). A total of 50 sperm-rich ejaculate fractions were collected (one per boar) using the gloved hand method. The quality parameters of the semen samples were first evaluated at the farm. Further assessment of sperm quality was performed on a CASA -computer assisted semen analysis by two competent operators. Seminal plasma protein fractions were obtained by AOAC -Association of Official Analytical Chemists as a chemical method. The assessment of reproductive performance was carried out based on collected data of three parameters in selected 9696 sows: FR, PBA per litter and percentage of unsuccessful insemination. Protein fractions were divided in to three groups (10 -20kDa, 21 -30kDa and 31 -40kDa) Proteins with 10 -20kDa did not have significant effect and correlation with analyzed parameters. Significant differences were recorded in farrowing rate between samples with up to 80 % compared to samples with 10% of proteins with 21 -30kDa. Significant differences were recorded in unsuccessful insemination between samples with different percentage of proteins with 31 -40kDa. Results of this study have shown the effect of different percentage of certain fraction of seminal plasma proteins on boar ejaculates fertility potential.

Seminal plasma protein profiles and testosterone levels as biomarker semen quality of candidate Madura bulls

“…Meanwhile, protein molecules associated with sperm can affect the structure and metabolism, which are different for each individual [ 41 ]. SP contained many proteins, and each protein had association and dissociation relationships at specific peptide conditions based on a certain MW [ 42 ].…”

Effect of an Antioxidant Supplement Combination on Boar Sperm

“…The main reasons for using artificial insemination (AI) in pigs are to increase reproductive efficiency and rates of genetic improvement. Obtaining good reproductive material from boars includes continuous improvements and adopting new procedures and technologies in the assessment of good quality semen for AI [1][2][3]. It is well known that antioxidant supplementation in humans and animals has a lot of benefits, but the potential clinical benefit deriving from these supplements is still under wide debate, due to the need to find optimal levels of antioxidants that will improve body functions and even the male reproductive system [4][5][6][7].…”