Aim: To assess the CoQ(10) levels in pigeon spermatozoa and to verify their possible correlation with spermatic kinetic parameters. Methods: In pigeons the sperm motility percentage (MOT%), mean linear velocity (VCM) and morphology were determined in ejaculated semen. In addition intracellular CoQ(10) concentrations were also detected with a HPLC method. Results: Intracellular CoQ10 levels demonstrated wide individual variations, averaging 4.85 +/- 2.31 (SD) ng/10(6) spermatozoa. Statistical analysis showed a positive correlation of the substance with the sperm concentration (r=0.63; P<0.05) and with the VCM (r=0.66; P<0.05), and a negative correlation with the MOT% (r=0.78; P=0.01). No correlation was found between the CoQ10 concentration and the percentage of normal spermatozoa. Conclusion: Our results suggest a possible role for CoQ(10) as a "fertility marker" in pigeons, which may be employed to monitor the pharmacological effects of cytostatic substances often used to reduce the pigeon fertility in urban environment.
Coenzyme Q(10) levels in pigeon (Columba livia) spermatozoa.,
DUCCI, MICHELE;GAZZANO, ANGELO;SIGHIERI, CLAUDIO;MARTELLI, FRANCO
2002-01-01
Abstract
Aim: To assess the CoQ(10) levels in pigeon spermatozoa and to verify their possible correlation with spermatic kinetic parameters. Methods: In pigeons the sperm motility percentage (MOT%), mean linear velocity (VCM) and morphology were determined in ejaculated semen. In addition intracellular CoQ(10) concentrations were also detected with a HPLC method. Results: Intracellular CoQ10 levels demonstrated wide individual variations, averaging 4.85 +/- 2.31 (SD) ng/10(6) spermatozoa. Statistical analysis showed a positive correlation of the substance with the sperm concentration (r=0.63; P<0.05) and with the VCM (r=0.66; P<0.05), and a negative correlation with the MOT% (r=0.78; P=0.01). No correlation was found between the CoQ10 concentration and the percentage of normal spermatozoa. Conclusion: Our results suggest a possible role for CoQ(10) as a "fertility marker" in pigeons, which may be employed to monitor the pharmacological effects of cytostatic substances often used to reduce the pigeon fertility in urban environment.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
