Despite the availability of numerouseffective contraceptive methodsUnintended pregnancy accounts for more than 40 percent of conceptions worldwide. Unplanned pregnancies therefore contribute significantly to population growth. Furthermore, it can also have profound negative effects on the mother's physical, mental and economic well-being. Now American researchers have developed a monoclonal sperm antibody called Human Contraception Antibody (HCA). This has been proven to be safe and causes severe sperm clumping and immobilization in laboratory tests.
Contraceptive measure against unwanted pregnancy
HCA therefore appears to be suitable for use as a contraceptive. In addition, the antibody can be administered vaginally in a dissolvable film by women for contraception if necessary. The study authors explain that they achieved this in laboratory conditions. To evaluate its suitability as a topical contraceptive, researchers tested HCA in a wide range of concentrations and under various physiologically relevant conditions in vitro. More specifically, they mixed the antibody with sperm from normal, healthy volunteers and then tested its effectiveness. Within 15 seconds, the method immobilized the sperm and caused them to stick together tightly. The scientists also found that HCA did not cause vaginal inflammation in tissue culture cells that they tested in the laboratory.
Due to its effectiveness and safety profile, themonoclonal antibodiesAccording to the study authors, close current gaps in the area of contraception. HCA could be used in women who are not currently using available contraceptive methods. In addition, this could have a significant impact on global health, according to the developers. To this end, they are currently testing HCA in a Phase I clinical trial.
However, researchers also believe they could combine HCA with other antibodies, such as anti-HIV and anti-HSV antibodies, for multipurpose prevention. Above all, this would be a product that would serve as both a contraceptive and prevent sexually transmitted infections. Passive immunization with preformed antisperm antibodies would address the concerns about active contraceptionthis studyevade.
