Goat specific synthesized antimicrobial peptide β-defensin improves post-thaw sperm fertility

Cryoprotectant selection and their formulation for semen extenders are critical factors that significantly influence sperm survivability and fertility after cryopreservation. Antimicrobial peptides offer a promising alternative to antibiotics in semen cryopreservation. The objective of this study was to improve the post thaw sperm survivability and fertility by supplementation of synthesized β-defensin antimicrobial peptide (βdef-AMP). βdef-AMP was designed and synthesized from outsource supplemented in ejaculates (control, 10 µM, 15 µM and 20 µM). βdef-AMP exhibited significant efficacy in reducing the bacterial load in all tested concentrations (10, 15, and 20 µM). The post-thaw sperm motility, live sperm, sperm membrane and acrosome integrity were significantly higher (p<0.05) in 15 µM fortified diluent. Malondialdehyde production was significantly lower (p<0.05) in 15 µM fortified diluent showing low lipid peroxidation. So, the supplementation of 15 µM βdef-AMP is advantageous for the cryopreservation of Barbari buck semen to improve sperm fertility and to reduce microbial load in semen.