Scientists are one step closer to creating a reversible contraceptive for men

For half a century, pharmacologists have tried fruitlessly to develop an effective male contraceptive. Only now the British scientists are one step closer to creating a drug that changes the function of sperm. In the foreseeable future, a means of reversible contraception for men may appear in pharmacies.

The creation of the drug occurred by chance

It is curious that the researchers did not deliberately develop a male contraceptive. They studied peptides, amino acid compounds that penetrated the sperm cells, and then changed its functions. The experiment was conducted to help infertile people become fathers. Some men can not conceive a child because of low activity of spermatozoa. Having developed a drug that helps improve the chances of conception, scientists realized that it can be made to work in the opposite direction.

How do peptides change sperm functions?

Dr. Sarah Jones of the University of Wolverhampton reports that her team has made efforts to develop models of peptides that can change the physiology of sperm. And, it seems, they managed to find a mechanism that enhances or suppresses the penetration of spermatozoa into the egg. Now scientists see how one can cross this almost impenetrable barrier in some cases and stop penetrating into others. To date, in the field of birth control regulates female contraception. If the new development reaches pharmacies, the feminists will have another chance to amuse their ego. Scientists hope to develop the result and soon will provide improved samples of the male contraceptive.

Amino acid compounds alter the expression of proteins

During the pharmacological tests, Dr. Jones, along with his colleague, Professor John Haul, examined the penetration of peptides into cells. Researchers came to the conclusion that the situation can be regulated. When amino acid compounds penetrate semen cells, they can alter the expression of certain proteins. This, in turn, affects the movement of the streams. It should be noted that the tests were carried out in conjunction with Portuguese colleagues, and for laboratory samples, bovine sperm was taken. As a result, it was found that peptides can reduce sperm motility for several minutes.

A new word in the field of biologically active agents

Based on extensive research, these specialists have proved that it is possible to develop compounds that can be biologically active. According to Dr. Haul, the molecules synthesized in the laboratory are a new class of biologically active agents. The technology of implementation allows you to manage the processes that occur at the intracellular level. For conventional drugs, this task seems difficult to resolve.

When can I wait for men's pills on sale?

Scientists are very optimistic about predictions for the future. With some experimental development, their experiments can lead to the creation of pills or nasal spray. A man who uses a contraceptive for a few hours before intercourse will protect his partner from unwanted pregnancy. According to the developers, the effect can last several days. Now they are waiting for the test on male sperm.