Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9, semen quality and sperm longevity in fractionated stallion semen

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 are gelatinases that take part in several reproductive processes. The aim of this study was to measure levels MMP-2 fractionated stallion ejaculates, evaluate the association between these components semen quality, sperm longevity during cooled storage. Semen quality were assessed separately for sperm-rich fractions (HIGH), sperm-poor (LOW), whole ejaculate samples (WE) from 33 stallions. After storage with SP either present or removed, motility DFI determined. relative activity pro-form MMP-2, active total evaluated using gelatin zymography, all stallion’s ejaculate, higher latent than forms highest HIGH fraction. activities positively correlated concentration count, but only fraction not LOW WE. MMPs related differences storage, measured as DFI. There a harmful effect on associated MMPs. In conclusion, useful markers (other concentration), survival horses.