Vrk. Reddy et Dd. Manjramkar, Evaluation of the antifertility effect of magainin-A in rabbits: in vitro and in vivo studies, FERT STERIL, 73(2), 2000, pp. 353-358
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 i
n vivo studies) and on vaginal epithelium (histologic study) was assessed a
long 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 admin
istered intravaginally blocked conception. No histopathologic abnormalities
in the vaginal tissue or any changes in serum biochemical profiles were ob
served.
Conclusion(s): Magainin-A may be used as an effective and safe intravaginal
contraceptive compound that also has antibacterial properties. (Fertil Ste
ril(R) 2000;73:353-8. (C)2000 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine
.).