Platelet-rich plasma supplementation in semen extenders improves post-thaw sperm quality and fertility in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): A systematic review and meta-analysis
Role of PRP in buffalo semen cryopreservation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62310/liab.v6i1.303Keywords:
Buffalo, Platelet-rich plasma, Semen extender, Meta-analysis, Semen quality, FertilityAbstract
Cryopreservation of semen is an essential component of buffalo reproductive management, although the freeze–thaw process frequently induces sperm cryodamage and oxidative stress– related decline in fertility. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a blood-derived concentrate rich in biologically active growth factors and endogenous antioxidants, which is a known enhancer of sperm cryosurvival. Therefore, it is supplemented in buffalo semen extenders. This systematic review and meta-analysis targeted to quantify the influence of PRP substitution in buffalo semen extenders on post-thaw sperm quality and fertility outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five electronic databases to identify eligible controlled studies. PRP supplementation improves post-thaw sperm quality, including progressive motility, viability, plasma membrane integrity, and acrosomal integrity, while reducing malondialdehyde levels and increasing total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase activity, indicating reduced oxidative damage during cryopreservation. Pooled fertility data revealed that the conception rates following insemination with PRP-enriched frozen semen were higher than those in the control group. There was moderate heterogeneity in the measured variables, which were largely attributable to the differences in PRP concentrations, preparation methods, and the types of extenders used rather than disagreement in the effect direction. The study results are consistent with earlier investigations, indicating that PRP may have different mechanisms of action of protecting sperm from freezing, which potentially translates into better reproductive performance after laboratory improvements. Although the current studies support the potential incorporation of PRP into buffalo semen cryopreservation protocols, further well-designed studies are required to define a standard method of PRP preparation, determine the optimum dose, and validate the effectiveness of PRP under field conditions.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Ragil Angga Prastiya, Trilas Sardjito, Sri Pantja Madyawati, Muhammad Thohawi Elziyad Purnama, Amung Logam Saputro, Bodhi Agustono, Nining Haryuni, Samira Musa Sasi, Nagia Musa Alghoul
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Accepted 2026-03-13
Published 2026-03-17
