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Male contraceptive development: A medicinal chemistry perspective
Neil R Norcross1, Irene Georgiou1, Zoe C Johnston2
1Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 5EH, UK.
European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
|September 10, 2022
Summary
Developing non-hormonal male contraceptives is crucial. This review explores potential targets and pathways for male contraceptive development, addressing a significant unmet need.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Pharmacology
- Contraceptive development
Background:
- Significant need exists for non-hormonal contraceptive options.
- Male contraceptive development is underexplored compared to female options.
- Understanding male reproductive physiology is key to identifying targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current need for male contraceptives.
- To discuss the characteristics and development pathway for male contraceptives.
- To highlight potential drug targets for male contraception.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on male contraception.
- Analysis of potential contraceptive targets in male reproductive system.
- Discussion of discovery approaches and development strategies.
Main Results:
- Identified a critical need for reversible, non-hormonal male contraceptives.
- Outlined desirable characteristics for male contraceptive products.
- Summarized various approaches for male contraceptive discovery.
- Highlighted several promising molecular targets for investigation.
Conclusions:
- Further research into male contraceptive targets is essential.
- Development of novel male contraceptives requires a multi-faceted approach.
- Addressing the need for male contraception can improve reproductive health options.
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