Scientists have discovered a gene that is critical to sperm development, good news both for people who want children and those who do not, Science Daily reported Thursday

According to a research by University of Edinburgh, a gene “Katnal1” is essential in enabling sperm to mature. Katnal1 helps formation of cells that provide nutrients to sperm.

Researchers are hoping that by manipulating the gene, they can help sperm mature, or block the development process.

A stand-out benefit of a contraceptive using Katnal1 is that it would not affect hormone levels.

Traditional contraceptives work by disrupting the secretion of hormones such as testosterone, leading to side effects like irritability, mood swings, and acne. Researchers say this can be avoided with the new discovery.

Also, the Katnal1 hinders sperm’s later stages of development, meaning that the new contraceptive would not likely affect male reproductive abilities long term.

The research was published in the journal “PLos Genetics”.



From news reports