Synthetic androgens for male contraception

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Reproductive Health
• Pharmacology

Background:

• High rates of unintended pregnancy persist globally, with limited male contraceptive options.
• Men express interest in novel, reversible male contraceptives, especially oral formulations.
• Current hormonal male contraception strategies involve androgens or androgen-progestin combinations to suppress sperm production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development of modified androgens for male hormonal contraception.
• To explore the potential of these novel molecules in addressing the unmet need for male birth control.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing data on modified androgens for male contraception.
• Analysis of endocrine negative feedback mechanisms targeting the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis.
• Evaluation of testosterone modifications for tailored steroid activity and enhanced sperm suppression.

Main Results:

• Modified androgens, including those with progestin activity, demonstrate potential for enhanced and accelerated sperm suppression compared to testosterone alone.
• Testosterone modifications that block conversion to dihydrotestosterone may reduce prostate stimulation.
• Single-agent hormonal male contraceptives derived from modified androgens are a promising area of research.

Conclusions:

• Modified androgens represent a viable strategy for developing effective and reversible hormonal male contraceptives.
• These novel molecules could significantly contribute to expanding contraceptive choices for men.
• Further research and development are needed to advance these modified androgens towards clinical application.