Effects of Slow and Rapid Thawing on Bull Semen Quality: An Evaluation via Thermal Resistance Test
Abstract
This study aimed to comparatively evaluate the impact of two different thawing protocols—slow thawing at 37°C for 30 seconds and rapid thawing at 70°C for 6 seconds—on bull semen quality, with a particular focus on the thermal resistance of spermatozoa. In both groups, motility, progressive motility, kinematic parameters (VCL, VAP, VSL, STR, LIN, WOB, ALH, BCF), viability, and plasma membrane integrity were analyzed following thawing and after the thermal resistance test. Initially, no significant differences were found between groups in terms of motility and kinematic parameters; however, viability and membrane integrity were significantly higher in the rapid thawing group (P<0.001). By the end of the thermal resistance test, progressive motility, VAP, and VCL values were statistically higher in the slow thawing group (P<0.001). Moreover, a decline in motility and kinematic parameters was observed in both groups during incubation, which may be attributed to thermal stress (P<0.05). These results demonstrate that while rapid thawing confers advantages in early post-thaw membrane preservation, slow thawing offers better maintenance of motility over extended periods. Therefore, the choice of thawing protocol should be guided by the specific requirements of the intended reproductive technique, as it can significantly influence the fertilizing potential of cryopreserved bull semen.
Keywords
References
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