Progress on the roles of zinc in sperm cryopreservation

Theriogenology. 2023 Nov:211:134-141. doi: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.08.014. Epub 2023 Aug 19.

Abstract

One of the effective methods for the long-term preservation of mammalian genetic resources is the cryopreservation of semen. However, a number of parameters, including diluents, the rate of freezing and thawing, cryoprotectants, etc., can easily alter the survival of frozen-thawed sperm. Numerous studies have documented the addition of a variety of zinc compounds, to the diluents used to cryopreserve sperm. The primary objective of this review is to briefly describe that adding zinc to diluents as an antioxidant significantly enhances frozen-thawed sperm quality. Second, a summary of the present understanding of zinc's molecular mechanism on semen cryopreservation is provided. Thirdly, this study addresses that nanoparticles of zinc can offer suggestions for raising cryopreservation effectiveness.

Keywords: Molecular mechanism; Nanoparticles; Sperm cryopreservation; Zinc.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cryopreservation / veterinary
  • Cryoprotective Agents / pharmacology
  • Male
  • Mammals
  • Semen*
  • Spermatozoa
  • Zinc* / pharmacology

Substances

  • Zinc
  • Cryoprotective Agents