Men currently have only a few contraceptive options. The most commonly used methods are condoms and vasectomy.
According to Cornell University, researchers are now working on a new solution that could be both safe and reversible without causing permanent side effects.
The researchers are particularly interested in developing a hormone-free method, as hormone-based contraception has previously raised concerns about side effects.
Stops sperm production
In the new study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers examined a process in the body that plays an important role in the formation of sperm cells.
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The researchers used a substance called JQ1 to temporarily stop this process in mice. After three weeks of treatment, sperm production had stopped completely.
Fertility returned
When the treatment was discontinued, the mice’s normal functions gradually began to return. After around six weeks, most of the mice were once again producing sperm cells.
The researchers then tested whether the mice were still able to have offspring. The results showed that they remained fertile and that the offspring were healthy.
Cornell University believes the method could potentially be used in the future as a new form of male contraception.
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However, the researchers stress that the findings are still based on early animal testing.
Sources: SciTechDaily and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
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