V R Reddy1, D D Manjramkar. 1. Division of Immunology, Institute for Research in Reproduction, Mumbai, Parel, India. libirr@icmrirr.bom.nic.in
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and contraceptive potential of magainin-A in rabbits. DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. SETTING: Department of Immunology, Institute for Research in Reproduction, Mumbai, Parel, India. ANIMAL(S): Forty-eight female New Zealand white rabbits. INTERVENTION(S): The effect of magainin-A on sperm motility (in vitro and in vivo studies) and on vaginal epithelium (histologic study) was assessed along with serum and liver biochemical profiles. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Suitability of magainin-A for contraceptive use. RESULT(S): Magainin-A arrested sperm motility, and 1 mg of magainin-A administered intravaginally blocked conception. No histopathologic abnormalities in the vaginal tissue or any changes in serum biochemical profiles were observed. CONCLUSION(S): Magainin-A may be used as an effective and safe intravaginal contraceptive compound that also has antibacterial properties.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and contraceptive potential of magainin-A in rabbits. DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. SETTING: Department of Immunology, Institute for Research in Reproduction, Mumbai, Parel, India. ANIMAL(S): Forty-eight female New Zealand white rabbits. INTERVENTION(S): The effect of magainin-A on sperm motility (in vitro and in vivo studies) and on vaginal epithelium (histologic study) was assessed along with serum and liver biochemical profiles. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Suitability of magainin-A for contraceptive use. RESULT(S): Magainin-A arrested sperm motility, and 1 mg of magainin-A administered intravaginally blocked conception. No histopathologic abnormalities in the vaginal tissue or any changes in serum biochemical profiles were observed. CONCLUSION(S): Magainin-A may be used as an effective and safe intravaginal contraceptive compound that also has antibacterial properties.