Combination of curcumin and raffinose improves ram sperm parameters during liquid storage at 5◦C

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of the curcumin and raffinose, added to the Tris extender, on ram sperm motility, abnormality and viability during liquid storage up to 72 h at 5 oC.Methods: Ejaculates collected from 4 rams, were evaluated and pooled at 37 oC. Each pooled ejaculate was divided into equal aliquots and diluted (37 oC) with the base extender with 9 groups, containing curcumin (100 (1)and 300 (2)μM), raffinose (75 (a)and 150 (b)μM) and their interaction (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b), at a final concentration of 200×106 sperm/mL (single step dilution), in a 15-ml plastic centrifuge tube. Diluted semen samples were kept in glass tubes and cooled from 37 to 5 oC in a cold cabinet, and maintained at 5 oC. Sperm parameters were determined at 5 oC for periods of 0, 24, 48 and 72 h of liquid storage.Result: Combination of curcumin and raffinose gave the better protective rates of sperm motility, abnormality and viability, compared to other groups in 0 (2b) and 72 (1a) h of storage. Additionally, this combination effect provided more protection of sperm viability and abnormality in 48 h (P < 0.05).Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that combination of curcumin and raffinose have greater benefits to ram sperm parameters during the liquid storage.

Keywords:

Curcumin , Liquid storage , Raffinose , Ram sperm