Cryopreservation and storage of semen for artificial insemination (AI) result in excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This leads to a shortened life span and reduced motility of spermatozoa post-thawing, with consequent impairment of their function. However, certain levels of ROS are essential to facilitate the capacitation of spermatozoa required for successful fertilisation. Tannins, as well-known antioxidant compounds, may act as ROS binders/acceptors/scavengers to inhibit the damaging effects of ROS. This review comprises an analysis of the semen cryopreservation protocol and health functions of tannins, as well as the effects of ROS on fresh and cryopreserved semen’s longevity and fertilisation. Additionally, we surveyed available evidence of the effects of tannin extract feed supplementation on male fertility. We furthermore interrogated existing theories on tannin use as a potential additive to semen extenders, its relationship with semen quality, and to what degree existing theories have been investigated to develop testable new hypotheses. Emphasis was placed on the effects of tannins on ROS, their involvement in regulating sperm structure and function during cryopreservation, and on post-thaw sperm motility, capacitation, and fertilising ability. The diverse effects of tannins on the reproductive system as a result of their potential metal ion chelation, protein precipitation, and biological antioxidant abilities have been identified. The current data are the first to support the further investigation of the incorporation of tannin-rich plant extracts into semen extenders to enhance the post-thaw survival, motility, and fertilising ability of cryopreserved spermatozoa.
SIMPLE SUMMARY : Freezing of semen used for artificial reproductive technologies (ART) affects the
survival and vigour of sperm cells due to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS)
during the freezing and thawing processes. ROS plays a physiological role in sperm function but
excessive ROS production from damaged sperm cells can hinder sperm’s motility and their ability to
fertilise an oocyte. Tannins, a class of water-soluble plant polyphenols, are known to have antioxidant
and other health-promoting effects and may serve as binders/acceptors to reduce the deleterious
effects of excessive ROS produced during the freezing and thawing process. This review is the first to
analyse the available data supporting the use of tannins as additives to semen extenders to improve
the survival of cryopreserved spermatozoa during storage and after thawing. It is concluded that
tannins and their derivatives have naturally protective properties with the potential to ameliorate
sperm cell survival after freezing.
