Targeting a protein important for chromatin organization could be a new strategy for male birth control. Proper regulation of chromatin dynamics is critical for proper sperm development, and mice with alterations in a protein that is central to chromatin organization are infertile. Now, scientists show that treating mice with a drug known to inhibit that protein impedes sperm development and renders the animals infertile—but halting treatment allows sperm production to restart and mice to sire normal litters.
The results, published today (August 16) in Cell, suggest that targeting this protein could produce a safe, reversible method for non-hormonal male contraception—a long-sought goal that has so far failed to materialize as an option alongside condoms and vasectomies.
“These are terrific results that are extremely promising [for male contraception],” said Diana Blithe, who researches male contraception at the National Institute of Child Health & Human Development, but did not participate in the ...
