Scientists in the United States have identified a gene that exists in almost every species of mammal, including humans, that could hold the key to developing an effective, reversible, non-hormonal male contraceptive.
In a mouse experiment published today in the scientific journal Nature Communications, researchers at the University of Washington succeeded in deactivating the Arrdc5 gene and causing infertility in males.
The gene is expressed in testicular tissue of mice, pigs, cattle and humans.
According to study lead author John Oatley, male rodents produced sperm “that could not fertilize an ovum” (female gamete) when the gene was switched off.
The study found that mice lacking the gene produced 28% fewer sperm that moved 2.8 times slower than normal mice, and about 98% of those sperm had abnormal heads and midsections.
The protein encoded by the Arrdc5 gene is essential for normal sperm production, so the Washington team is working on a drug that inhibits the function of the protein, which would promote male contraception without affecting hormones such as testosterone, which, in addition to producing sperm and red blood cells, promotes building bone mass and muscle strength.
A drug that targets this protein would also mean that its contraceptive effect would be reversible, meaning once the drug is stopped, spermatozoa will resume normal production.
John Oatley and the first author of the study, Mariana Jassetti, have issued a provisional patent for the development of a male contraceptive based on the Arrdc5 gene and its encoded protein, which could serve as an alternative to animal castration and vasectomy in animals. Men.
Author: Portuguese
Source: CM Jornal
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