01241-A: Detection of DNA damage in response to cooling storage in canine spermatozoa using single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet assay)

Grant Amount: $8,402

Cristina Gobello, DVM; National University of La Plata

August 1, 2009 - March 31, 2011

Sponsor(s): Akita Club of America, Inc., American Brittany Club, American Sealyham Terrier Club, Bearded Collie Club of America, Border Terrier Club of America, Borzoi Club of America, Curly-Coated Retriever Club of America, English Setter Association of America, Inc., Flat-Coated Retriever Foundation, For A Better Bedlington, National Beagle Club, Poodle Club of America Foundation, Pug Dog Club of America, Inc., Yorkshire Terrier Club of America Foundation, Inc.

Breed(s): -All Dogs

Research Program Area: Reproductive Conditions

Abstract

Background: Semen chilling aids damage of spermatozoa genetic pool (DNA) which is associated with poor pregnancy outcome. Knowledge of sperm DNA damage during semen storage may provide a more informed explanation of canine reproductive potential after chilling. The researchers speculate that cool storage in milk-based semen extenders gradually leads to DNA damage which is related to decreasing sperm motility. Objective: This project will identify the actual "storage life" of canine. Ejaculates will be collected from six male dogs, diluted in skimmed milk based extenders with and without egg yolk and stored at 4�C. Progressive motility and DNA integrity will be assessed in the fresh and then daily in extended cooled semen during 7 days. The data will be studied statistically.

Publication(s)

None at this time.