(n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acid compositions

Abstract

Methods and compositions for improving the viability of sperm are disclosed. The method involves adding (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids to antioxidants and sperm or seminal fluid, or to the diet of the animal producing the sperm. The compositions incorporate (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants in a feed supplement.

1 . The use of an antioxidant to enhance sperm function and/or viability.  
     
     
         2 . The use of a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) to enhance sperm function and/or viability.  
     
     
         3 . The use of an antioxidant accompanied by a PUFA to enhance sperm function and/or viability.  
     
     
         4 . The use claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the antioxidant and/or the PUFA is administered to the animal producing the sperm.  
     
     
         5 . The use claimed in any of    claim 1    to  3 , wherein the antioxidant and/or the PUFA is added to the sperm or to fluid surrounding the sperm.  
     
     
         6 . The use claimed in any of    claims 2    to    5   , wherein the PUFA is an n-3 fatty acid.  
     
     
         7 . The use claimed in any claims  1  and  4  to  6 , wherein the antioxidant is selected from vitamins, plant extracts and carotenoids.  
     
     
         8 . The use of a PUFA to enhance sperm function and/or viability in avians, wherein the PUFA is an n-6 fatty acid.  
     
     
         9 . A method of enhancing sperm function and/or viability, comprising adding to the semen of an animal substantially sperm-free seminal fluid containing an antioxidant and/or a PUFA.  
     
     
         10 . A method as claimed in    claim 9   , wherein said seminal fluid is produced from the semen of another animal.  
     
     
         11 . A method as claimed in    claim 9    or    10   , wherein said seminal fluid is produced by removing sperm from the semen of an animal.  
     
     
         12 . A method as claimed in    claim 9   ,    10    or  11 , wherein the antioxidant is selected from vitamins, plant extracts and carotenoids.  
     
     
         13 . A method as claimed in any of    claims 9    to    12   , wherein the PUFA is an n-3 fatty acid.  
     
     
         14 . A method as claimed in any of    claims 9    to    13   , wherein the semen with the added seminal fluid is then placed in cryoscopic storage.  
     
     
         15 . A method as claimed in any of    claims 9    to    14   , wherein the semen with the added seminal fluid is used for artificial insemination.