The effect of Laminaria japonic polysaccharide on sperm characteristics and biochemical parameters in cryopreserved boar sperm

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the cryoprotective effect of Laminaria japonic polysaccharide (LJP) on boar sperm. Semen samples were collected from seven mature Yorkshire boars once a week by the gloved hand technique and frozen–thawed in the extender with LJP added. Extender with LJP added at concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mg/mL to the extender and its effects on the quality of frozen–thawed boar sperm were assessed. Results showed: (i) sperm motility and plasma membrane integrity were greater in the extender containing 0.5 and 1.0 mg/mL LJP, as compared to other groups (P < 0.05); (ii) extender added 1.0 mg/mL LJP showed the greatest plasma membrane and acrosomal integrity percentages in comparison with other groups (P < 0.05); (iii) mitochondrial activity was significantly higher at the concentration of 0.5 and 1.0 mg/mL LJP than those of other groups (P < 0.05); (iv) in terms of biochemical assessments, 0.5 and 1.0 mg/mL LJP improved SOD (superoxide dismutase) and CAT (catalase) concentrations, compared to other groups (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was found in GSH-Px (glutathione peroxidase) concentration when supplemented with LJP. Interestingly, LJP exhibited a dose-related response and the lesser concentration represented greater protective effects. It is also important to note that 1.0 mg/mL LJP provides for an enhanced cryoprotective effect in boar semen.