Exploring Electrospun Nanofiber Encapsulation as an Alternative to Cryopreservation for Semen Preservation

Abstract

Preservation of semen plays a crucial role in artificial insemination and livestock genetic improvement programs. Traditional cryopreservation techniques have limitations, including ice crystal formation, oxidative stress, and reduced post-thaw viability. As a
solution, nanotechnology and electrospinning techniques have been explored to enhance the stability, viability, and motility of preserved semen during room-temperature storage. This study investigates the use of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and sucrose nanofibers as a novel
matrix for semen preservation. This research aims to develop a nanofiber-based medium composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and sucrose via electrospinning to enhance semen viability and preservation. The PVA and sucrose solution was prepared by dissolving PVA in water and adding sucrose as a cryoprotectant. The mixture was electrospun under controlled conditions to produce a nanofiber matrix. Semen was mixed with the electrospun nanofiber polymeric mixture into five different formulations, and the distribution of semen within the nanofiber network was evaluated using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The semen samples were dissolved in saline and assessed for their structural integrity. The electrospun PVA-sucrose nanofibers demonstrated excellent encapsulation properties, providing a protective environment for semen structure. Post-electrospinning analysis revealed that the nanofiber-based preservation medium significantly altered the structure of semen in Formulation 5 (reduced concentration of 15%wt/wt PVA with the addition of 30%wt/wt sucrose addition). The combination of PVA and sucrose in the nanofiber structure played a key role in maintaining semen integrity during electrospinning. This approach enhances semen quality, offering a potential alternative to conventional cryopreservation techniques. Further research is needed to optimise fibre composition, explore the incorporation of other polymeric matrices, and evaluate long-term storage effects to develop new methods for preserving assisted reproduction materials without the need
for freezing.