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Publication
Effect of Urolithin A on bovine sperm capacitation and in vitro fertilization
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a critical role in the functional competence of sperm
cells. Conversely, excessive generation of ROS can impair sperm function, including their ability for
fertilization. Urolithin A (UA), a natural metabolite with anti-aging and antioxidant properties, was
investigated for the first time in bovine sperm cells in the present study. Firstly, different doses of
UA (0, 1, and 10 µM; 8-16 sessions) were used during the capacitation process of frozen-thawed
bovine sperm. Sperm motility was assessed using optical microscopy and CASA. Sperm vitality
(eosin-nigrosin), ROS and ATP levels, as well as mitochondrial membrane potential (JC1) and oxy- gen consumption were evaluated. A second experiment to test the effect of different doses of UA (0,
1, and 10 µM; 6 sessions) in both the capacitation medium, as above, and the fertilization medium,
was also implemented. The embryonic development and quality were evaluated. UA at a concen-
tration of 1 µM significantly improved sperm movement quality (p < 0.025). There was a trend to-
wards an increase in the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) of capacitated sperm with 1 µM and 10
µM UA supplementation. Moreover, an increase in ATP levels (p < 0.01) was observed, accompa-
nied by a reduction in ROS levels at the higher UA concentration. These results suggest that UA
may enhance spermatozoa mitochondrial function. UA almost doubled the number of produced
embryos without significant differences in quality. Presented results further support previous find-
ings indicating the potential therapeutic value of UA for addressing reproductive sub/infertility problems and improving ART results.
Description
Keywords
ART Biotechnologies Mitochondria Oocyte Reproductive ROS Spermatozoa Urolithin A