Scientists identify new Genetic Target for Male Contraception
The scientists at Washington State University (WSU) have recently discovered a new gene called Arrdc5 which is expressed in the testicular tissue of mice, cattle, pigs, and humans. The study, published in Nature Communications, suggests that this could be a potential target for male contraceptive development. If this research becomes practically successful, it can bring a revolution in male contraceptive options which were previously only limited to the use of condoms and a surgical vasectomy. A majority of birth control responsibilities were primarily associated with women. Dr. John Oatley (Professor at WSU’s School of Molecular Biosciences) and colleagues are the faces behind this new study. What does the Study Suggest? Previously, scientists have identified other molecular targets for potential male contraceptive development. However, the Arrdc5 gene is specifically found in male testes. To explore its biological function, Oatley and his team used a genome editing technique ca...