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The editorial "Antioxidants in Male and Animal Reproduction: Applications and Critical Issues" discusses the impact of oxidative stress and antioxidants on male infertility, emphasizing the role of antioxidants in improving sperm quality and fertility. The article highlights the importance of antioxidants in mitigating oxidative damage during semen manipulation and cryopreservation, with a focus on both human and animal models. Additionally, the editorial underscores the need for further research on the efficacy of antioxidants and their application in male reproductive health. [Extracted from the article]

Sperm preservation is a crucial factor for the success of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in humans, livestock, and wildlife. Irrespective of the extender and the storage conditions used, semen handling and preservation negatively affect sperm quality. Moreover, oxidative stress, which often arises during semen storage, significantly reduces sperm function and compromises the sperm fertilizing ability by inducing oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Plant extracts have recently emerged as a cheap and natural source of additives to preserve and enhance sperm function during semen storage. The present work provides an update on the use of these natural compounds as alternative additives for sperm preservation in 13 animal species, including humans. A detailed description of the effects of 45 plant species, belonging to 28 families, on sperm function during semen storage is presented. The plant material and extraction method employed, dosage, possible toxic effects, and antimicrobial properties are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]