New study takes step towards male contraceptive pill

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Baylor College of Medicine have published research that could represent a crucial step forward in efforts to create a male contraceptive pill.

The team have discovered a small molecule compound that is able to penetrate the blood-testis boundary to disrupt spermatogenesis, the process by which sperm develop into mature specimens.

This compound, dubbed JQ1, was able to generate birth control effects in male mice by decreasing in the number and quality of sperm, an effect that was entirely reversible and did not affect testosterone production, mating behaviour or the health of any offspring subsequently conceived.

According to the team, this demonstrates that a reversible oral male contraceptive is a scientifically viable product.

Dr James Bradner, the paper's senior author, said: "While we will be conducting more research to see if we can build on our current findings, JQ1 shows initial promise as a lead compound for male contraception."

University of Sheffield andrology lecturer Dr Allan Pacey told BBC News that this is a welcome development, as most currently trialled means of male contraception utilise injections or implants to manipulate hormones.