effects of ex vivo cold-storage on cryopreservation of the goat [Caprus hircus] epididymal sperm

ABSTRACT

There are many studies focused on long or short storage time of epididymal sperm [EPS] of different species. There are limited studies on preservation or cryopreservation of the domestic goat EPS. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of ex vivo cold-storage on freezing of EPS from goat [Capra hircus]. In a split-plot design the caprine testes-epididymides [40 pairs] were divided to 4 storage-time groups equally [0, 24, 48 and 72 h], then subjected to cryopreservation using Bioxell. Sperm parameters were analyzed before and after freezing. Duration of cold-storage as well as freezing at all storage-time points reduced sperm viability and progressive motility while increased sperm tail abnormalities [p<0.0001]. Freezing reduced the percentage of cytoplasmic droplets [p<0.0001]. The percentage of detached heads was increased at all storage-time points following freezing [p=0.0019], except at time 0 h. It can be concluded that cold storage [in refrigerator [4°C] for 72 h] of epididymides efficiently protected the goat EPS in terms of progressive motility and viability. However, cold-storage may not protect the goat EPS against cryopreservation with Bioxell