Document Type : Review article
Authors
1
Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
2
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Animal Husbandry, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, West Java, 45363, Indonesia
3
Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor 16680, Indonesia
4
Education Program in Reproduction and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash Clinical School, Monash University, Australia
5
Laboratory of Theriogenology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, 1677-1 Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan
10.22059/ijvm.2026.413642.1006093
Abstract
Sericin, a silk-derived bioactive protein, shows potential as a natural antioxidant in livestock biotechnology applications, such as sperm cryopreservation and in vitro embryo production (IVEP). This systematic review aimed to analyze the available literature on supplementing semen extenders and IVEP systems with sericin across various livestock species. A systematic literature review was conducted using Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, following the PICO framework and screening in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. From an initial 754 records, the criteria selected 27 studies, including 12 on semen cryopreservation and 15 on IVEP. In semen preservation systems, sericin supplementation at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 0.75% was associated with favorable post-thaw sperm-quality and oxidative-status outcomes in several studies. In contrast, direct evidence for improved fertility remained limited. Concentrations around 0.25% were often associated with favorable post-thaw sperm-quality outcomes, although the effective response varied by species and semen-preservation system. Additionally, sericin supplementation had a minimal effect on the extent of sperm DNA fragmentation, with multiple studies reporting no significant effect. In IVEP systems, sericin supplementation at 0.05% to 1% improved oocyte and cleavage-stage embryo quality. Concentrations around 0.5% were often associated with favorable oocyte- and embryo-related outcomes, although responses varied by species, reproductive stage, and culture system. Sericin may modulate intracellular redox balance and pathways related to cumulus–oocyte communication. Further, sericin showed potential as an alternative protein supplement in selected IVEP culture systems. However, sericin concentrations≥ 2.5% adversely affected embryonic development and IVEP outcomes. Overall, sericin supplementation is likely to offer considerable protective benefits to gametes and embryos. It can thus be used in advanced livestock reproductive technologies.
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