Effect of aqueous Nigella sativa extract on the functional parameters of post-thaw human spermatozoa during vitrification

Abstract

Objective: Sperm vitrification leads to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can damage the functional parameters of sperm. The present study aimed to investigate the antioxidant effect of Nigella sativa extract on motility, plasma membrane function, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), DNA damage, and intracellular ROS production. Methods: A total of 20 sperm samples were used. Samples were divided into six experimental groups, including groups with aqueous extract from N. sativa seeds at concentrations of 1% to 6%, a cryopreserved control group, and a fresh control group. Results: Statistical analysis showed significantly higher total sperm motility at concentrations of 3% to 6% than in the vitrified semen control group. Additionally, progressive motility and all motion characteristics at all concentrations were significantly higher than in the vitrified semen control group. The presence of N. sativa seed extract also improved the quality of the sperm parameters assayed in all experimental groups (1%–6%; intracellular ROS production, DNA damage, MMP, and sperm membrane function) compared to the control group. Conclusion: Higher concentrations of N. sativa led to improvements in all sperm parameters and sperm quality. These findings indicate that N. sativa seed extract is effective for improving the quality of sperm after vitrification.

Supplementation of Thymoquinone Nanoparticles to Semen Extender Boosts Cryotolerance and Fertilizing Ability of Buffalo Bull Spermatozoa

“…In this research, TQNPs (37.5 or 50 µg/mL) had better results for sperm kinematics than other groups did (CON, TQNP12.5, and TQNP25). Consistent with our findings, the addition of the Nigella sativa extract at doses of (1-6%) also enhanced the percentage of progressive motility and other motion parameters (LIN, VCL, VSL, and VAP) (p ≤ 0.05) in contrast to the untreated one in cryopreserved human sperm [13]. Moreover, the oral administration of TQ improved sperm kinetics such as VSL, VCL, and VAP in mice exposed to heat stress [18], as evidenced by the improvement in morphology of seminiferous tubes.…”

“…While ROS such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anions, and nitric oxide play important roles in cell signaling, excessive levels can induce sperm dysfunction, leading to male infertility [ 8 , 10 , 11 ]. Consequently, improving sperm quality or functionality by limiting OS and strengthening the antioxidant defense system in cryopreserved semen via extender supplements with natural antioxidants [ 9 , 12 , 13 , 14 ] is an applicable strategy to improve the cryo-resistance and fertilizing ability of buffalo sperm.…”

“…The thymoquinone nanoparticle (TQNP) has been extensively used in therapeutic therapy [ 28 ]. Several authors have demonstrated the favorable impacts of Nigella sativa extract or their oil in improving sperm quality during cryopreservation in different animals [ 13 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 30 ]. In addition, the free TQ improved post-thawed sperm in rams [ 22 ], and protected sperm functionality from various damages [ 18 , 31 , 32 ].…”

Human sperm parameter improvement associated with Ceratonia siliqua extract as a cryopreservation supplement after vitrification

“…Flowcytometric analysis was conducted using Cyflogic version 2.5.1 (CyFlo Ltd.). This analysis was performed using a FACSCalibur flow cytometer (BD Biosciences) and an argon laser with a wavelength of 488 nm [ 28 ].…”

The protective effect of zinc oxide and selenium oxide nanoparticles on the functional parameters of rat sperm during vitrification

“…Subsequently, 30 µL/drop of each prepared sample was dispensed onto a metal grid submerged in liquid nitrogen. These samples were then stored in a liquid nitrogen tank for a duration of 2 weeks [ 25 ]. Thawing of the samples was achieved by immersing them in 5 mL of pre-heated HTF at a temperature of 37 °C, with the addition of 1% HSA.…”