 This blog series highlights pertinent publications that were featured in MCI's monthly newsletter editions in the fourth quarter of 2024. The purpose of this blog is to report interesting or relevant work from MCI Fellows, Grantees, staff members, and other community authors in the field of male contraception. This study explores the potential of inhibiting sperm maturation in the epididymis as a short-acting male contraceptive strategy. Using lorlatinib, an anti-cancer drug that inhibits ROS1, researchers treated male mice for three weeks, observing impaired sperm function and fertility. The treatment disrupted the epididymal epithelium and reduced levels of key proteins. Sperm from treated mice showed decreased motility and abnormal binding to the zona pellucida. However, these effects were reversible, as fertility was restored three weeks after stopping the treatment. The findings suggest that targeting ROS1 could lead to safe, reversible male contraceptives. This review paper in the journal Contraception suggests that male contraception should be viewed through a “joint preventive behavior” sociocultural lens, and advocates for the development of a balanced suite of contraceptive tools for people of all genders. Preventing unwanted pregnancy is a shared responsibility involving individuals of any gender, shaped by the sociocultural environment that influences reproductive rights and contraceptive technologies. Historically, models of contraceptive practices have evolved from patriarchal structures to more balanced approaches emphasizing female emancipation. The concept of "joint preventive behavior" stresses the need for equal reproductive rights, responsibilities, and contraceptive choices. Developing diverse male contraceptive methods to fit individual needs is a crucial step toward achieving balanced collaboration in reproductive health. This review paper from MCI Grantees Thomas Thomas Garcia and Marty Matzuk summarizes their excellent work identifying novel genes required for sperm development and using advanced screening techniques to develop small molecule inhibitors of these proteins, which could be developed into contraceptive leads. It focuses on identifying key genes involved in male fertility, particularly those influencing spermatogenesis and sperm motility, as potential targets for contraception. It underscores the integration of genomics, proteomics, and chemical biology in advancing male contraceptive development This study explores the socioeconomic disparities affecting male contraceptive use in South Africa, with a focus on future male birth control methods. It highlights that while 40% of men use male contraception, there are significant inequalities in adoption, primarily influenced by socioeconomic status. The study suggests that higher socioeconomic status correlates with increased use of modern male contraceptive methods. These findings underline the need for strategies to promote male contraception, such as expanding educational campaigns and ensuring equitable access to new male birth control options, which are crucial for enhancing male participation in family planning and advancing reproductive health. “Notably, 78% [of men surveyed] disagreed that contraception is solely a woman's responsibility.” Vasectomy is currently the most effective form of male contraception available, and has seen an increase in uptake in the last few years, but in order to confirm that the procedure was fully effective, men have to come back to the doctor a few months later for a follow-up semen analysis. This paper suggests some best practices for patient communication and reviews new tools to help minimize the risk of unintended pregnancies in the first months after a vasectomy. In this review paper, Dr. Brian Nguyen suggests new ways to demonstrate that men are interested in using contraceptives. Despite the proven interest in new male contraceptives, limited resources and investments hinder development due to doubts about men's willingness to use them. Over 30 studies show consistent interest from men, suggesting that future efforts should focus on building infrastructure and promoting cultural changes to support the adoption of new methods. As societal norms shift towards gender equity, men’s involvement in contraception is likely to increase, highlighting the need for proactive development and dissemination of male contraceptives. Are there any interesting publications about non-hormonal, reversible male contraception that you'd like to see featured? Please reach out to us and share your thoughts!
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