Influence of Adding Green Synthesized Gold Nanoparticles to Tris-Extender on Sperm Characteristics of Cryopreserved Goat Semen

There are various challenges during semen cryopreservation used for artificial insemination, oxidative stress is considered as the major factor. Usage of nano-particle materials is an efficient tool to overcome these challenges. In the present article, effects of adding green synthesized gold nanoparticles (GSGNPs, 5; 10ppm/mL) to Tris-extender on sperm characteristics in post-equilibrated and post-thawed semen. Apoptosis and sperm ultrastructure post-thawed were also examined as well as enzyme activity and antioxidant status in post-thawed extender of goat semen were evaluated. Supplementation of GSGNPs (10 ppm) increased (P<0.05) motility, livability, and membrane integrity post-equilibration, and also in addition to acrosome integrity post-thawing. Also, viable sperm increased (P<0.05), early apoptotic, apoptotic, and necrotic sperm decreased (P<0.05) by 10 ppm GSGPNs. In the extender of thawed semen, AST and ALT activities were not affected, total antioxidant capacity and catalase activity were higher (P<0.05), while malondialdehyde decreased (P<0.05) by 10 ppm GSGNPs. Frequency distribution of sperm cells with intact plasma or acrosomal membranes increased (P<0.05), while of those with swollen plasma membranes or typical acrosome reaction decreased (P<0.05). However, frequency distribution of sperm cells with slightly swollen or lost plasma membranes as well as atypical acrosome reaction and lost acrosomal membrane was not affected by GSGNPs. Transmission electron microscopy examination revealed no entry of GSGNPs with sperm cells.The present article may suggest considerable addition of GSGNPs at a level of 10 ppm/mL to Tris-extender of cryopreserved goat semen during cryopreservation.