Genetic Breakthrough Brings Non-Hormonal Male Contraception Closer
Researchers from Washington State University have identified a gene called Arrdc5, which could be a potent target in the development of new birth control drugs for men. The gene is only expressed in the testicles of various mammals, including humans. Manipulating the Arrdc5 gene in mice led to infertility in males, and scientists say that a drug targeting this gene could be a sorely needed solution to the massive disparity between male and female contraceptive options. The lack of hormonal involvement in the drug would be ideal, and it should be easy to engineer any such new drug to be reversible.