Efecto de la concentración de la coenzima Q10 en semen ovino post congelación

Abstract

Reproductive biotechnologies are essential in sheep genetic improvement processes to increase productive performance. These tools address problems of species infertility and productivity. In this scenario, coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) is a substance that plays a fundamental role in semen cryopreservation, acting as an antioxidant in sperm survival. In this research, the effect of coenzyme Q10 concentration in post-freezing sheep semen was evaluated, with different doses (0.2mM, 0.4mM, 0.6mM, and 0.8mM). In consequence, samples of three phenotypes were extracted, with five repetitions, dividing each sample into four doses plus one control. The samples were contrasted with the fresh samples that were previously evaluated, and where the Katahdin individual was the one that showed the best characteristics. However, when adding coenzyme Q10, its effect on the thawed samples was not encouraging and was evidenced by a significant reduction (p<0.05) in the motility indicators, defined by the CASA system (Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis System); this reduction was associated with the presence of coenzyme Q10 in the frozen medium. The membrane functionality and viability tests determined a reduction of these indicators associated with the concentration of coenzyme Q10. A more exhaustive investigation is required on this response of coenzyme Q10 to justify its lethal and sublethal effect due to the lack of specific literature about it; thus, it is necessary to use lower doses to validate this statement by contrasting it with other freezing methodologies.

Keywords CASA system; Membrane Functionality; Viability; Concentration.