Incorporation of reduced glutathione to the extender improves frozen-thawed sperm function and fertility potential in mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi)

Semen cryopreservation is a valuable tool for assisted reproduction in aquatic species. Despite the various advantages in hatchery practices, damage occurred during the process of freezing and thawing can result in compromised sperm quality. Supplementation of antioxidant in the freezing medium is suggested to be an effective strategy against cryodamage. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the potential effects of reduced glutathione (GSH) on post-thaw sperm quality and fertility in mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi). Semen was diluted with freezing medium at a ratio of 1:6 (v/v), with GSH supplemented at different concentrations (0, 1, 2, 4, 8 mM) and then subjected to cryopreservation. Sperm motion parameters, viability, mitochondrial activity, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis were assessed after thawing. The addition of GSH at 4 mM presented significantly higher (P