Boar seminal plasma components and their relation with semen quality

Abstract

80% normal sperm and >70% motility) and group B (GB:<80% normal sperm and<70% motility). Each ejaculate was collected and semen volume, concentration, sperm motility (computer aided semen analysis; CASA), morphology, and vitality (both eosin nigrosin staining) were investigated. The SP was separated and analyzed for aspartate-amino-transferase (AST), γ-glutamyl-transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and the concentrations of sodium (Na), potassium (K), chloride (Cl), calcium (Ca), phosphate (PO43-), magnesium (Mg), selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) were assessed. Repeated measures (2 months interval) were conducted in eight boars of GA from one AI center. The activity of GGT (r=-0.482) and ALP (r=-0.459) was moderately associated (p<0.05) with ejaculate volume and strongly associated with concentration (r=0.580 and r=0.618, respectively; p=0.000). Moderate associations (p<0.05) were found between ALP (r=0.439), GGT (r=0.387), Na (r=-0.428), K (r=0.354), and Se (r=0.354) with progressive motility. The SP concentration of Na (r=-0.401), Cl (r=-0.521), and K (r=0.350) was associated (p<0.05) with normal morphology. Only Mg was associated (p<0.05) with membrane damage (r=-0.335). The concentration of Na, Cl, and Zn (1681.0 vs. 1701.0 g/dL) was different between groups (p<0.05). Repeated measures showed significant differences in time but only for Na, Mg, and Zn (p<0.05). In conclusion, several biochemical components of SP were related to semen quality. The analysis of biochemical parameters could provide extra information about reproductive health of AI boars. © 2013 Informa Healthcare USA, Inc.