Effect of Adding Different Amounts of Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi) to Sperm Extender on the Freezing of Ram Sperm

Abstract

This research aimed to improve the post-thaw quality of ram semen by reducing oxidative stress during the freezing process through the use of Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi)a mushroom known for its potent antioxidant properties. Semen samples collected from 6 Akkaraman rams were pooled and divided equally into control and treatment groups. The study consists of six groups: Group 1 (Control0% GL)Group 2 (0.5% GL)Group 3 (1% GL)Group 4 (2% GL)Group 5 (4% GL)Group 6 (8% GL). After dilution and coolingthe semen was glycerolizedequilibratedpackaged into 0.25 ml mini strawsand cryopreserved using an automated freezing system. Results showed that supplementation with 0.5%1%2% GL significantly improved total and progressive motility compared with the control group. In contrastthe 8% GL treatment exhibited toxic effects on spermleading to reduced motility. In the kinematic analysissignificant changes were detected in velocity of curvilinear and velocity of average path values of 8% GL compared to all other groups. In the oxidative stress analysismalondialdehyde concentrations were significantly higher in the 8% GL group compared with the control group. Glutathione concentrations and catalase activity increased in the 1% and 2% GL groups and decreased in the 8% GL group. Glutathione peroxidase activity increased in the 0.5%1% and 2% groups and decreased in 8%. Superoxide dismutase activity decreased in the 8% GL group but remained unchanged in the other treatment groups. Overallthe findings suggest that supplementation of extenders with 0.5%1%or 2% GL extract enhances semen cryopreservation quality in rams.