Effects of ultrasonication on damaged spermatozoa and mitochondrial activity rate

The aim of this study was to describe an optimal sonication procedure for sperm cells. Therefore, we used several parameters such as damaged spermatozoa rate (%), mitochondrial activity rate (%), levels of lipid peroxidation, and total antioxidant potential. Ejaculates were collected from rams (n = 3) and were divided into aliquots and 3-, 6-, and 10-s duration times; 1, 3, 5, and 8 repetitive application groups were established. In the groups with 3-, 6- and 10-s duration times, with the increasing number of repeated applications, damaged spermatozoa rates increased (P < 0.05) while mitochondrial activity rates decreased (P < 0.05). In relation with sonication duration time, total antioxidant potential levels increased (P < 0.05) in single-application groups compared to those in control groups and gradually decreased as the repetitions increased. The most effective results were obtained in the group with 8 repetitions and 10-s duration based on damaged spermatozoa rate and mitochondrial activity rate.