There was an article published in Cell today about a potential new male contraceptive option, that would be equivalent to the pill. Matzuk et al describe a small molecule inhibitor that can inhibit the production of spermatozoa to the point of infertility in mice. When they stopped giving the mice the compound, fertility returned and the mice and their offspring appeared normal. The offspring were able to breed, and litter size, pup weight and behaviour were similar to pups sired by mice that hadn't been given the compound. The compound had no effect on hormone levels, which means the mice could engage in normal mating behaviours.
This small molecule inhibitor is very promising, and it may provide a more effective means of contraception for couples that can not use some of the current options.
A preview of the article:
http://www.cell.com/abstract/S0092-8674%2812%2900934-8?utm_source=ECE001&utm_campaign=&utm_content=&utm_medium=email&bid=38A4R3F:SKPGM2F
The article:
http://www.cell.com/abstract/S0092-8674%2812%2900929-4?utm_source=ECE001&utm_campaign=&utm_content=&utm_medium=email&bid=38A4R3F:SKPGM2F
Today's Scrabble word: Jeon for 22 points
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