Melatonin and Canthaxanthin Ameliorate Oxidative Stress and Improve Semen Quality: A Special Reference to Ram

Abstract

Success in the outcomes of applied assisted reproductive techniques mainly relies on the quality of the semen. Oxidative stress created by Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Lipid Peroxidation (LPO) generated during different steps of semen preservation reduces semen quality. Melatonin and canthaxanthin are potent antioxidants involved in many biological processes. They have excellent capacity to scavenge free radicals, combat against oxidative stress and improve endogenous antioxidant defenses. Melatonin is well established antioxidant in semen preservation to protect against oxidative stress-induced damage; however, little literature is available on use of canthaxanthin as semen extender additive. Melatonin and its metabolites act as direct or indirect scavenger of free radicals arrest LPO and reduce generation of ROS, hence oxidative stress, thereby shielding seminal quality to prolong sperm morphological and functional attributes. Similar to melatonin, canthaxanthin by virtue of its antioxidant potential has shown promising results in preserving the seminal quality as well as their efficiency to reduce and/or prevent sperm damages during storage. This brief review encapsulated new uncovering related to the beneficial antioxidant effects of melatonin and canthaxanthin on semen preservation along with future perspective in respect of different combination and/or concentration along with fertility trails.