Impact of cryopreservation on lipid composition of reproductive cells of male sterlets (Acipenser Ruthenus L.)

Abstract

Aim. To estimate the impact of low temperatures on the lipid composition of reproductive cells of male sterlets (Acipenser ruthenus L) in cryopreservation environment. Methods. The determination of sperm quality (color, consistence, concentration and motility of spermatozoa) was estimated by common biochemical methods using standard equipment. Thin-layer chromatography was used to reveal fi ve fractions of neutral lipids in the sperm of investigated fi sh, which were distributed on the plates as follows: the starting line demonstrated phospholipids, cholesterol, free fatty acids, triacylglycerol and ethers of cholesterol. The adaptive property of sperm was estimated by the level of spermatozoa survival prior to and after cryopreservation. Results. The obtained results of sterlet sperm activity prior to and after cryopreservation demonstrate high quality of native sperm and its considerable deterioration after freezing/thawing. Conclusions. The impact of low temperatures on the lipid composition of reproductive cells of male sterlets (Acipenser ruthenus L) in cryopreservation environment leads to impairments of the phospholipid bilayer of their membranes. It was established that during the thawing of frozen sperm cells which preserved their viability after cryopreservation their motility and capability of fertilizing an ovum were somewhat restored with slowing down of sperm cell motility.