New Technique for Assessing Acrosomal Characteristics of Spermatozoa

Abstract

A series of exploratory studies calculated to test the efficacy and potential application of a new, differential acrosome stain is presented. The stain, a combination of eosin B and fast green FCF, was effective in revealing acrosomal characteristics of spermatozoa in both fresh and frozen semen samples. The presence or absence of the acrosome could be determined as well as its condition, i.e., smooth ans entire, swollen or disintegrating, and degree of attachment to the sperm cell. The staining process is simple and acrosomal evaluation is done with the oil immersion objective of a light microscope. There was a highly significant correlation (P < 0.01) between the incidence of acrosomal abnormalities observed with the Wells-Awa stain and that observed with either the Giesma stain or bright-field phase microscopy. Species studies indicate that the stain effectively elucidates the acrosome of bull, ram, boar, stallion, and rabbit spermatozoa. These facts strongly indicate that the Wells-Awa stain may be a valuable addition to routinely used semen evaluation measures. © 1970, American Dairy Science Association. All rights reserved.