Extenders for semen

EXTENDERS FOR FREEZING OF SEMEN

Successful freezing of semen will depend upon prevention of damage caused by

  • Internal ice crystal formation that affects the structure of the spermatozoa.
  • The increase in solute concentration as water is withdrawn from the suspension medium.
  • By interaction of these two physical factors.

  • These above damages can be prevented by suspending the sperm in ideal extender, which could afford cryoprotection during freezing.

A satisfactory diluent must have
  • Similar osmotic pressure - isotonic to blood, semen and milk (around 275-300 mOsm) and should be capable of maintaining the entire storage period.
  • Proper balance of mineral elements which are essential to the life of sperm cells.
  • All sperm cell nutrients for both aerobic and anaerobic metabolic processes.
  • Lipoproteins and/or lecithin to protect sperm cell against cold shock.
  • Chemical means for buffering toxic end products of sperm cell metabolism.
  • Antibiotics to inhibit bacterial multiplication.
  • Source material to protect from sulphydryl containing enzymes.
  • Materials to protect from freezing injuries.
  • These are some of the properties of good diluent.

Last modified: Monday, 4 June 2012, 10:14 AM