Carboxyfullerene C60 preserves porcine sperm by enhancing antioxidant capacity and inhibiting apoptosis and harmful bacteria.

ABSTRACT

This study used a porcine model to systematically investigate whether carboxyfullerene C60(CF-C60) can be used for sperm preservation. The results indicated that CF-C60 supplementation can preserve porcine sperm quality during storage at 17 °C. This effect was attributable to an improvement in the antioxidant capacity of sperm through a decrease in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. Additionally, CF-C60 can maintain mitochondrial function, inhibit sperm apoptosis through the ROS/Cytochrome C (Cyt C)/Caspase 3 signaling pathway, and mediate suppression of bacterial growth through the effects of ROS. Finally, the results of artificial insemination experiments indicated that insemination with CF-C60-treated sperm can increase the total number of offspring born and reduce the number of deformed piglets. Thus, CF-C60 is safe for use as a component of semen diluent for sperm storage.

The development of novel porcine sperm protective agents holds profound significance for improving fertility quality and promoting reproductive health. Excessive oxidative stress and bacterial contamination, leading to sperm apoptosis, are the 2 major factors affecting the decline of porcine sperm quality. Recently, CF-C60 has gained attention as an important nanocarbon derivative with strong antioxidant and antibacterial activity. However, the role and mechanism of CF-C60 in the preservation of mammalian sperm remain unknown. This study aimed to explore the important protective role of CF-C60 in porcine sperm.