Background:
L-carnitine is an important amino acid in sperm metabolism and possesses antioxidant properties. It makes energy easy for spermatozoa to access, which helps in sperm movement, and has the effect of decreasing reactive oxygen species production, which helps in lessening their harmful effects.
Aim:
To investigate the optimal dose of L-carnitine to be used in bull semen extenders for mitigating the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species during semen cryopreservation.
Methods:
A total of 38 ejaculates (30-55% motility) were collected and extended using a Tris-yolk-fructose extender. Each sample was divided into five groups: a control and four groups supplemented with L-carnitine (0.03, 0.05, 0.08, and 0.1 mg/ml). Sperm motility, viability, and abnormalities were assessed before and after cryopreservation.
Results:
Supplementation of the semen extender with L-carnitine for low-motile bull sperm significantly improved sperm motility, with the optimal concentration being 0.05 mg/ml (P
Key words: L-carnitine; Poor motile bull sperm; Cryopreservation; Sperm activation.
|