Over time they improved the TDI-11861. In mice, the drug did not appear to interfere with sexual function or cause side effects.
Of course, there is a big caveat. Mouse is not human. However, humans also have her sAC enzyme, which in men is also involved in sperm movement. Buck and Levin are convinced that this strategy may be safe for people after another team’s report in 2019 describing two infertile men with mutations in the gene that makes sAC. The males were otherwise healthy, except for an increased risk of kidney stones. It’s a problem.)
To test the compound’s safety, the Cornell University team infused male and female mice continuously for six weeks via a pump. They noted no side effects, including no kidney issues. They are currently testing the compound in rabbits, which have reproductive organs that more closely resemble human reproductive organs.
Many efforts to develop male contraceptives have primarily used hormones such as testosterone to suppress sperm production. However, like female hormonal contraceptives, these drugs can have a range of negative side effects, including mood swings, weight gain, and decreased libido. Hormonal birth control for both women and men also takes several weeks to become fully effective in preventing pregnancy. However, the gel should be applied to the shoulder daily to keep sperm levels low enough for effective contraception.
Some men may prefer non-hormonal temporary alternatives. “I think this is a really great idea. It will probably be very well received by many people who don’t want to take pills every day.” ” and a female contraceptive, and was not involved in a new job. “I think we need different options for male and female contraception.”
Georg’s lab has developed a non-hormonal drug called YCT529 that targets a protein called retinoic acid receptor alpha and is involved in sperm formation. In mice, it significantly reduced sperm counts and was 99% effective in preventing pregnancy after 4 weeks of daily administration.
Buck and Levin are also working towards tablets, but these are less efficient at delivering drugs than injections. Researchers have launched a company called Sacy Pharmaceuticals to further improve the sAC inhibitor and advance it to human clinical trials. “We’re trying to get a compound that’s going to be a great little pill,” says Levin.
They also admit that current compounds wear off too quickly and can lead to unwanted pregnancies if not taken at exactly the right time. But if all goes well, it could play a role in a future Valentine’s Day. says.
