Chitosan–dextran sulphate nanoparticles for Gn RH release in rabbit insemination extenders

Contents This study was designed to develop chitosan ( CS )–dextran sulphate ( DS ) nanoparticles containing a Gn RH analogue and to study their effect on rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) semen quality. Six experimental extenders were tested as follows: (control) Tris‐citric acid‐glucose ( TCG ), (1) 0.05% CS ‐0.05% DS (4:1), (2) 0.1% CS ‐0.05% DS (4:1), (3) 0.05% CS ‐0.05% DS (3:1), (4) 0.1% CS ‐0.05% DS (3:1), (5) 0.1% CS ‐0.05% DS (2:1). CS and DS were dissolved in TCG medium, and nanoparticles were obtained through magnetic stirring. Rabbit seminal samples were incubated up to 5 hr at 37°C in the extenders, and seminal quality was evaluated. The entrapment efficiency was 40%–50%. After 5 hr at 37°C, a 20% of the hormone was released. Results showed that the presence of CS ‐ DS nanoparticles did not affect rabbit semen motility, viability and membrane functionality; however, acrosome integrity was significantly higher versus control ( p  < .001).