Breakthrough takes big step toward safe, reversible male contraception
6 hours ago
- #nonhormonal-birth-control
- #male-contraception
- #reproductive-science
- Cornell researchers made a breakthrough in nonhormonal male contraception using a molecule called JQ1 to safely and reversibly stop sperm production in mice.
- The study targeted meiosis, specifically prophase 1, ensuring sperm production stopped without affecting libido or secondary sex characteristics, and fertility fully recovered after treatment.
- The mice treated with JQ1 became completely infertile but regained normal sperm function and produced healthy offspring after the drug was discontinued.
- Future plans include targeting earlier stages of meiosis for improved drug delivery and exploring three new gene targets, with aims to start a company and develop a long-acting contraceptive injection or patch.