The drug stopped the movement of sperm cells in mice. The male contraceptive is still experimental and has a temporary effect.
Science seems to be getting closer to developing an effective male contraceptive, similar to the female contraceptive pill. In a new study published Tuesday in Nature Communications, scientists have shown that they have developed a non-hormonal, on-demand drug that works by preventing sperm from swimming.
Tests in mice suggest the pill can keep sperm dysfunctional for a few hours, long enough to prevent them from reaching the egg. However, many more tests are planned and are needed for the project to move forward. Before human trials are done, the researchers plan to test the drug on rabbits.
The new male contraceptive would have a temporary effect
The idea is that users will eventually be able to take the pill an hour before sex. Also, unlike the female contraceptive pill, the new male drug doesn’t involve hormones.
According to the scientists responsible for the project, this is precisely one of its advantages. That is, there would be no need to cut testosterone and there would be no side effects due to hormonal changes. However, female contraceptives are known for the risks they pose to patients, such as the onset of thrombosis.
Instead, the experimental male pill blocks the action of a cell signaling protein called soluble adenylyl cyclase. He is responsible for “sperm swimming”.
In the initial study in mice, funded by the US National Institutes of Health, a single dose of the drug, called TDI-11861, immobilized sperm before, during and after sex. The effect lasted for about three hours and within 24 hours it seemed to have completely disappeared.
One of the study authors, Melanie Balbach, of the Weill Cornell Medicine Research Center in New York, said the project showed promise as an easy-to-use, reversible contraceptive.
It is worth pointing out that the new male contraceptive is still in an experimental stage and, furthermore, to point out that it would not protect against sexually transmitted infections – condoms are still needed for this.
Source: BBC.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
