Scientists from Washington State University are investigating the function of a gene that could temporarily slow down sperm movement and thus become a contraceptive method for men.
The Arrdc5 gene would take care of normal sperm production in mammals, including humans. With this, we seek to develop a medicine that reduces the number of spermatozoa as well as their movement.
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Through laboratory tests, it was proved that deactivating the gene could affect fertility. An analysis revealed that with this method, 28% less sperm was produced than in the deactivated seal.
As well as the spermatozoids moved three times slower and in addition they were damaged.
“The elimination of Arrdc5 in rats leads to specific male sterility due to the production of a low number of non-moving and malformed spermatozoa”, explains the study.
The method that is being investigated is reversible so that in a few hours this is eliminated from the body and the usual values will resume.
Professor Jon Oatley says in the Daily Mail that work is being done on a drug that blocks the protein that produces the gene.
A group of scientists also announced a male contraceptive pill that was tested in rats and avoided 100% of embarrassments. This could be taken half an hour before sexual intercourse. Equally it would be temporal su efecto. (I)
