Inhibition of motility of bovine, canine and equine spermatozoa by artificial vagina lubricants.

The research studies the impact of different artificial vaginal lubricants on the motility, or movement, of spermatozoa (sperm) from bovines (cattle), canines (dogs), and equines (horses). It was found that certain lubricants can inhibit sperm movement which may affect fertilization.

Objective of the Study

• The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effects of four different vaginal lubricants on the progressive motility of sperm in bovines, canines, and equines.

Methodology

• The researchers used four types of lubricants: sterile K-Y, nonsterile K-Y, H-R and Maxilube lubricating jellies.
• These lubricants were used at different concentrations: 0, 5, or 10% weight/volume.
• The semen was first exposed to the lubricants at 37 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes.
• After that, it was expanded to a concentration of 10X10^6 spermatozoa per milliliter.
• The motility of the sperm was then evaluated at different time intervals: 0, 1, 2, 4, and 6 or 8 hours after incubation at the same temperature.

Findings and Conclusions

• For bovine sperm, it was observed that 10% sterile K-Y jelly suppressed the motility of the sperm, while the other lubricants had no significant effect.
• The researchers found Maxilube to be toxic to canine sperm, thus making it not suitable for use during the collection or insemination of canine semen.
• Regarding equine sperm, it was discovered that 10% H-R jelly had no impact on sperm motility, while the others suppressed it.
• For all three species, nonsterile K-Y jelly showed no more damaging effects to sperm motility than sterile K-Y jelly.
• The research concludes that H-R jelly also provided a satisfactory result on the sperm of all three species.
• However, the authors note that further fertility tests would be necessary to determine the overall impact of these products on fertility.