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چکیده
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Cryopreservation is a key technique for preserving genetic material in poultry, yet it is often associated with reduced sperm viability due to oxidative damage. The present study aimed to evaluate the protective role of silymarin, a potent antioxidant extracted from Silybum marianum, in improving the quality of cryopreserved rooster sperm. Fresh ejaculates from Ross 308 roosters were pooled and extended using a Lake's extender supplemented with varying concentrations of silymarin: 0 (control), 25, 50, 75, and 100 µg/mL. After equilibration and cryopreservation, post thaw semen samples were evaluated for motility using Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA), plasma membrane integrity via the hypoosmotic swelling test, sperm abnormalities using eosin-nigrosin staining, and lipid peroxidation measured by malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The results demonstrated that silymarin supplementation significantly improved post-thaw sperm quality in a dose-dependent manner up to 75 µg/mL. The highest total and progressive motility were recorded at 75 µg/mL, as well as the greatest membrane integrity and the lowest rates of morphological abnormalities. MDA levels were significantly reduced in all silymarin-treated groups compared to control, with the lowest levels detected at 75 µg/mL. However, 100 µg/mL showed a slight decline in efficacy, indicating a possible threshold beyond which no additional benefit is gained. In conclusion, silymarin at an optimal concentration of 75 µg/mL can mitigate oxidative damage and enhance post-thaw sperm function, offering a promising strategy for improving cryopreservation outcomes in poultry breeding programs.
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