The effect of molecular hydrogen and protein kinase C inhibitor on the functional parameters of bovine sperm

Background. Studies on the use of molecular hydrogen as a cryoprotector for cattle spermatozoa have shown positive results, an increase in cell mobility and viability, and stabilization of their membranes have been noted. Despite this, the mechanisms of action of molecular hydrogen on spermatozoa remain unclear. Purpose. Investigation of the mechanisms of action of molecular hydrogen and the inhibitor of protein kinase C – staurosporin on the functional activity of bovine sperm. Materials and methods. The object of the study was semen samples from Holstinized bulls, subjected to various treatments. Sperm diluted with a standard diluent "BioXcell" was used; sperm diluted with a diluent "BioXcell" enriched with molecular hydrogen; sperm incubated using staurosporin – a protein kinase C inhibitor; sperm treated with molecular hydrogen and subsequent incubation with staurosporin. For each sample in the sperm, an analysis of kinetic parameters, energy status and intensity of free radical processes was carried out. Results. The inhibitor of proteinkinase C –staurosporin reduced the metabolic and kinetic parameters of spermatozoa, which confirms the direct participation of proteinkinase C in maintaining the structural and functional integrity and activity of spermatozoa. Molecular hydrogen in the presence of staurosporin had a positive effect on the studied parameters of bovine sperm, therefore, in addition to proteinkinase C, other mechanisms that are insensitive to staurosporin are involved in the transduction of molecular hydrogen-induced signals. Conclusion.Identification of the mechanisms determining the stimulating effects of molecular hydrogen on bull sperm will improve the parameters of fresh sperm and the technology of cryopreservation of bull sperm.