Semen cryopreservation ensures the storage of stallion genetics for an unlimited time. The improvement of extenders with new antioxidant substances can optimize the properties of post-thawed semen. The study aimed to investigate the addition effect of medium-molecular-weight carboxymethylchitosan (CQm) derivates to freezing diluent of stallion sperm after freezinf/thawing. Twice a week, five ejaculates of four stallions were obtained, totalizing 20 ejaculates. Semen was diluted in commercial freezing extender (Botucrio) supplemented with CQm: control (0), 0.75, 1.5, and 3 mg/mL. Samples were filled in straws (0.5 mL) and submitted to freezing and storage at -196°C. Thawing was performed at 37°C/30 s, and the samples of each group were analyzed for kinetics, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome membrane integrity, and mitochondrial membrane potential . The addition of 1.5 and 3 mg/mL CQm showed lower values (P < .05) of total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM), curvilinear velocity (VCL), straight line velocity (VSL), average path velocity (VAP) and wobble (WOB), comparing to control group. Besides, it was observed lower (P < .05) percentages of sperm with intact acrosomes in the group treated with 3 mg/mL of CQm than control group. In conclusion, high concentration of medium-molecular-weight carboxymethylchitosan to freezing diluent damages kinematic and acrosome of stallion sperm after freezing/thawing.
Keywords: Antioxidants; Chitin; Equine; Polysaccharides; Semen.
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