University of León Showcases NeoGiANT Project at Reproductive Sciences Congress
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At the recent “Evolution of Reproductive Sciences: Where Do We Go” conference held in Dublin, Ireland, our partner Felipe Martínez from the University of León had the opportunity to present two innovative posters from the NeoGiANT project. This event brought together leading researchers and professionals in the field of reproductive sciences to discuss advancements and future challenges.
Poster 1: “Comparative Application of a Natural, Sustainable Plant Extract with Antimicrobial Properties in Fish, Rooster, Bull, and Boar Spermatozoa”
The first poster presented by Felipe Martínez, titled “Comparative Application of a Natural, Sustainable Plant Extract with Antimicrobial Properties in Fish, Rooster, Bull, and Boar Spermatozoa,” addresses one of humanity’s pressing issues: antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This resistance is primarily caused by the overuse of antibiotics. The study proposes using natural plant extracts, rich in polyphenols with antimicrobial properties, as a sustainable solution to this problem.
The NeoGiANT project investigates the application of grape marc extracts, obtained through an environmentally friendly method, on spermatozoa from commercially important species such as sturgeon, carp, trout, chicken, pig, and cattle. Preliminary results showed positive effects on sperm motility, suggesting these extracts could replace antibiotics in semen extenders, which are used in millions of liters annually. However, careful calibration of compatible concentrations is necessary due to the sensitivity of spermatozoa to bioactive molecules. Some details of this study remain confidential due to intellectual property protection.
Poster 2: “Quercetin Affects Boar Sperm Motility During Refrigerated Storage”
The second poster, titled “Quercetin Affects Boar Sperm Motility During Refrigerated Storage,” focuses on the impact of polyphenols, specifically quercetin, on boar sperm motility during refrigerated storage. Polyphenols, produced by the secondary metabolism of plants and other organisms, possess antimicrobial properties that can be crucial in tackling AMR without promoting resistance in medically important substances.
The pig industry, which uses a significant amount of semen extenders containing broad-spectrum antibiotics, could greatly benefit from these advancements. While the production of pure polyphenols is often expensive, new developments in obtaining plant extracts through cost-effective and environmentally friendly procedures offer a viable alternative. These extracts can reduce or replace antibiotics in boar semen doses, enhancing the industry’s sustainability.
Felipe Martínez’s participation in the conference and the presentation of these two studies highlight the importance of seeking sustainable and effective solutions to combat antimicrobial resistance in animal production. The NeoGiANT project continues to make strides in replacing antibiotics with natural plant extracts, paving the way for more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in animal reproduction.
