Components of the extender and seminal plasma can alter the response of ram spermatozoa to cryopreservation

Abstract

The cryopreservation of sheep semen represents a challenge to increase pregnancy rates in cervical artificial insemination programs. Decreased sensitivity at low temperatures could counteract certain detrimental effects on sperm. It has been reported that the addition of seminal plasma improves the functionality and fertility in cryopreserved ram spermatozoa. However, this role played by the seminal plasma could be altered by the presence of the components of the extender, among them the egg yolk, cryoprotectant commonly used in the media of dilution and cryopreservation.