Comparison of measurable indicators by CASA in Simmental bull sperm samples treated with different concentrations of nanocurcumin.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a perennial plant belonging to the ginger family. Poor bioavailability of curcumin due to low absorption, fast metabolism and systemic removal as well as low solubility are important problems in optimal use of curcumin. One of the suggestions to improve the bioavailability of curcumin is to use its nanoparticles. It has been found that curcumin has significant antioxidant effects and can improve male reproductive activity. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of adding nanocurcumin to semen extender on the semen quality in fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa in dual purpose Simmental bulls (Fleckvieh). Ejaculates were collected from 12 bulls in three repetitions in a period of three months. Each ejaculate was equally divided into three parts for experimental groups (control, nanocurcumin 50 mg/L and nanocurcumin 100 mg/L). Semen was frozen in a two-step dilution method. Sperm parameters including motility, viability, morphology, and membrane integrity were investigated before and after freezing. The results showed that nanocurcumin did not have a positive effect on the quality of fresh sperms while, caused an increase in sperm motility parameters in the 100 mg/L group in thawed semen. Since sperm progressive motility of thawed semen is one of the most important indicators of sperm quality prediction, it is suggested to add 100 mg/L of nanocurcumin to the bull semen extenders and conduct in vitro and in vivo studies to determine the fertility and conception rate in fertilized oocytes and cows inseminated with thawed semen enriched with nanocurcumin.