Challenges and Enhancing Strategies of Equine Semen Preservation: Nutritional and Genetic Perspectives

作者：Abd Ullah, Wenting Chen, Li Shi, Menghan Wang, Mingyang Geng, Jincheng Na, Muhammad Faheem Akhtar, Muhammad Zahoor Khan, Changfa Wang · 发表于：Veterinary Sciences · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.3390/vetsci12090807 · 被引用次数：3 · 研究领域：Sperm and Testicular Function、Reproductive Biology and Fertility、Seed Germination and Physiology

Equine semen preservation is fundamental to modern equine reproduction, supporting breeding programs, genetic conservation, and industry sustainability. However, significant challenges persist, including temperature sensitivity, oxidative stress, bacterial contamination, individual variability, and lack of standardized preservation protocols. These factors contribute to reduced sperm viability and fertility following cryopreservation. This review examines critical obstacles in equine semen preservation, focusing on cryopreservation sensitivity, molecular damage mechanisms, economic constraints, and seasonal quality variations. We analyze the molecular and structural alterations (e.g., oxidative stress, membrane damage, and DNA fragmentation) and their impact on cryopreservation success. The review evaluates evidence-based enhancement strategies, including nutritional supplementation and genetic approaches, for improving semen quality. Nutritional interventions that utilize antioxidants, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and nutraceuticals have demonstrated promising results in enhancing sperm motility, preserving membrane integrity, and improving overall semen quality. Additionally, we discuss key candidate genes associated with equine semen-quality traits, including sperm motility, viability, and cryotolerance. The integration of nutritional supplementation and genetic selection strategies presents viable pathways for optimizing equine semen preservation techniques. These...