Male contraception via simultaneous knockout of α1A-adrenoceptors and P2X1-purinoceptors in mice

The search for a viable male contraceptive target has been a medical challenge for many years. Most strategies have focused on hormonal or germ-line strategies to produce dysfunctional sperm that are incapable of fertilization. The problem with such approaches is that they have intolerable side effects such as affecting male sexual activity or causing long-term irreversible effects on fertility. In addition, some strategies may transmit detrimental changes to future offspring. This manuscript describes a male contraceptive target within the autonomic nervous system, which would not affect the long-term viability of sperm nor the sexual or general health of males. In addition, due to the nature of the target, the contraceptive has the potential to be orally administered.