Breedflat Project - Halibut

Seminal plasma, known for its crucial role in sperm viability and fertilization, has been found to contain a diverse array of extracellular vesicles (EVs). These EVs, including exosomes and microvesicles, carry bioactive molecules such as proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acids. Previous studies suggest that EVs released from seminal plasma may mediate intercellular communication between sperm and female reproductive tissues, potentially influencing processes like sperm maturation, egg activation, and embryo development. Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) is a promising aquaculture species with strong market demand, but its production is challenged by reproductive obstacles that may be partly related to the broodstock diet. Notably, miRNAs can impact the reproductive process in various species, including fish but little is known about the miRNAs in sperm EVs in Atlantic halibut.