Optimized addition of nitric oxide compounds in semen extender improves post-thaw seminal attributes of Murrah buffaloes.

Semen dilution and cryopreservation alter the homogeneity of seminal plasma, resulting in a non-physiological redox milieu and consequently poor sperm functionality. Considering the concentration-specific bimodal action of nitric oxide (NO) in the regulation of sperm functions, cryopreservation media supplemented with optimized concentrations can improve the semen attributes. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of adding an optimized concentration of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) in an extender on in vitro semen quality.

Bimodal interplay of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in physiology and pathophysiology of bovine sperm function.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are the mediators of redox activity and are known to perform concentration-specific bimodal roles. At lower concentrations, serves as a molecular messenger and signaling molecule while at higher concentrations induces stress which in turn alters the sperm's functional characteristics. Production of ROS and RNS cannot be prevented entirely and should not be followed as a pragmatic approach as they are involved in numerous sperm physiological functions.