An Overview on Assay Methods to Quantify ROS and Enzymatic Antioxidants in Erythrocytes and Spermatozoa of Small Domestic Ruminants

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The oxidative stress in the cell is the result of an imbalance between oxidants and the antioxidant defense system. In particular, oxidative stress in erythrocytes and spermatozoa of small domestic ruminants can negatively affect their productivity and welfare. This review highlights the assay methods for the quantification of ROS and enzymatic antioxidant activity in these cells, in order to help the researchers to evaluate the intracellular oxidative status and antioxidant defenses. These data can be useful in monitoring the health and reproduction of small domestic ruminants. ABSTRACT: The present review aims to provide an overview of the assay methods for the quantification of ROS and principal enzymatic antioxidants as biomarkers of oxidative stress in erythrocytes and spermatozoa of small domestic ruminants. A complete literature search was carried out in PubMed, Scopus and the World Wide Web using relevant keywords and focusing on the last five years (2018–2023). Among spectrophotometry, fluorometry and chemiluminescence, the most widely used method for ROS assay is fluorometry, probably because it allows to simultaneously assay several ROS, using different probes, with greater economic advantages. Regarding intracellular antioxidant enzymes, recent literature reports only spectrophotometric methods, many of which use commercial kits. The use of a less sensitive but cheapest method is suitable because both erythrocytes and spermatozoa samples are highly concentrated in domestic ruminant species. All methods considered in this review have been found to be appropriate; in general, the differences are related to their costs and sensitivity. Quantification of ROS and enzymatic antioxidant activity in erythrocytes and spermatozoa may find application in the study of the welfare and health status of small domestic ruminants for monitoring livestock production.