Assessment of the effect of selected components of equine seminal plasma on semen freezability

Abstract

In this study, selected components of seminal plasma in equine semen were evaluated. Levels of enzymes, electrolytes, microelements and some other components were observed. The aim of this study was to find some important differences between the levels of these components and the total sperm motility after freezing and thawing (freezability of the semen). Total of 32 ejaculates from 7 stallions were collected, assessed and prepared in 0,5 ml straws for freezing. After thawing, the sperm motility was analyzed and ejaculates were divided into two groups: “good” freezable and “poor” freezable. The only statistically significant difference between groups of „good“and „poor“freezable ejaculates was in the concentration of vitamin E in the seminal plasma. In the group of „good“freezable ejaculates, the level of vitamin E was significantly lower (p≤0,05) than in the group of “poor” freezable ejaculates.