Language
English
Publication Date
10-1-2024
Journal
Molecular Reproduction and Development
DOI
10.1002/mrd.70000
PMID
39422082
PMCID
PMC12094158
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
10-1-2025
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Author MSS
Abstract
The development of novel non-hormonal male contraceptives represents a pivotal frontier in reproductive health, driven by the need for safe, effective, and reversible contraceptive methods. This comprehensive review explores the genetic underpinnings of male fertility, emphasizing the crucial roles of specific genes and structural variants (SVs) identified through advanced sequencing technologies such as long-read sequencing (LRS). LRS has revolutionized the detection of structural variants and complex genomic regions, offering unprecedented precision and resolution over traditional next-generation sequencing (NGS). Key genetic targets, including those implicated in spermatogenesis and sperm motility, are highlighted, showcasing their potential as non-hormonal contraceptive targets. The review delves into the systematic identification and validation of male reproductive tract-specific genes, utilizing advanced transcriptomics and genomics studies with validation using novel knockout mouse models. We discuss the innovative application of small molecule inhibitors, developed through platforms like DNA-encoded chemistry technology (DEC-Tec), which have shown significant promise in preclinical models. Notable examples include inhibitors targeting serine/threonine kinase 33 (STK33), soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC), cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), and bromodomain testis associated (BRDT), each demonstrating nanomolar affinity and potential for reversible and specific inhibition of male fertility. This review also honors the contributions of Dr. David L. Garbers whose foundational work has paved the way for these advancements. The integration of genomic, proteomic, and chemical biology approaches, supported by interdisciplinary collaboration, is poised to transform male contraceptive development. Future perspectives emphasize the need for continued innovation and rigorous testing to bring these novel contraceptives from the laboratory to clinical application, promising a new era of male reproductive health management.
Keywords
Male, Animals, Humans, Contraceptive Agents, Male, Spermatogenesis, Reproduction, Mice, Genitalia, Male, Male contraception, non-hormonal contraceptives, spermatogenesis, long-read sequencing, whole-exome sequencing, male infertility, DNA-encoded chemistry technology, CRISPR/Cas9, testis-specific genes, small molecule inhibitors, reproductive biology
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Thomas X Garcia and Martin M Matzuk, "Novel Genes of the Male Reproductive System: Potential Roles in Male Reproduction and as Non-hormonal Male Contraceptive Targets" (2024). Faculty and Staff Publications. 5563.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/5563
Included in
Allergy and Immunology Commons, Biological Phenomena, Cell Phenomena, and Immunity Commons, Pathology Commons