Effects of vitamin C on testicular and seminal characteristics of Markhoz goats

Abstract

The effect of subcutaneous injections of vitamin C on the seminal characteristics of Markhoz bucks (2–4-year-old) was studied. The bucks, trained to serve an artificial vagina, were randomly allotted into three equal groups (n = 4) and received daily either zero (1 mL normal saline; control group), or 20 (VitC20 group) or 40 (VitC40 group) mg per kg body weight vitamin C from July 06, 2006 to Oct. 06, 2006. Blood samples were taken from the jugular vein at monthly inter, als, and semen samples were collected at 15-day intervals. Testicular dimensions in the scrotum (circumference, width, and length) were also determined on the day before semen collection. The ejaculates were evaluated for volume, sperm concentration, pH, motility, and abnormal and live sperm. Testicular measurements were not affected by administration of vitamin C. The interaction between vitamin C and the sampling time was significant (P