Scientists have discovered the gene responsible for the maturation of spermatozoa

To date, the only method of male contraception is to suppress the production of hormones like testosterone. This method is associated with unpleasant side effects such as acne, irritability and mood swings. The scientists believe they have found a safe method.

Discovery of a gene responsible for sperm maturation may contribute to the development of non-hormonal methods of male contraception. Thanks to recent studies on mice, experts have found the Katnal1 gene, which is responsible for the maturation of spermatozoa.

When the expression of the Katnal1 gene is reduced by Sertoli cells, the dynamic characteristics of microtubules of Sertoli cells change and premature release of spermatids from the spermatogenic epithelium occurs. If scientists can find a way to regulate the activity of this gene, it will be possible to suppress the maturation of spermatozoa, as a result of which fertilization will be inefficient.

This discovery can be used not only to create a new type of male contraceptives that do not affect hormone levels, but also to treat male infertility associated with a defect in the Katnal1 gene. It is important that the effect of drugs acting on the Katnal1 gene will be reversible, since it has an active effect only on spermatozoa that are in the late stages of development.