For many years I have been hearing the lamentations of woman about birth control. The complaints about birth control are mostly centered around undesirable side-effects of various birth control pills, patches or IUDs. Ultimately, the discussion leads back to why is the birth control issue is largely a woman's responsibility? Viola!
24 May 2012
BBC News - Male pill: gene discovery may lead to contraceptive
www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-18190352
According to a recent report by the BBC, Researchers at the Centre for Reproductive Health at the University of Edinburgh, identified a gene in mice, Katnal 1, that codes for a protein that helps spermatozoa mature into sperm. If the gene is mutated, the protein required to mature sperm is not produced. Without the protein, the sperm do not fully form and the body disposes of them. This is a non-hormonal mediated process and as result, not subject to unwanted side effects. Research now needs to be extended to human trials and to test if Katnal 1 is present in human males and if so, can a mutation of the gene result in a contraceptive effect in these males without causing lasting damage.
This investigation may also add insight about sperm quality in some males that have fertility issues.
In the July issue of Fertility and Sterility 2005; 84:141-7, researchers demonstrated that the spermatozoa ultrastructure improved after acupuncture treatments. Perhaps acupuncture treatment leads to an increase in the production of the protein coded by Katnal 1? Very interesting indeed!
Fertility enhancement or non-hormonal contraception for men, we all know, the responsibility for reproductive decisions lies with both partners. The issue is more of assertion of control. So...who do you trust, baby?
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