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概要

A Systematic Review Focusing on the Use of Slo1 and Slo3 as Potential Targets for the Modulation of Sperm Motility and the Development of a Male Contraceptive Pill

Maria Eleni Dionelli*

Background: There is limited knowledge and research regarding male contraceptives. Surveys conducted by pharmaceutical companies have shown that males will not take a pill that will affect their hormones. However, data from a government survey conducted in the United Kingdom in 2019 showed that 33% of sexually active men agreed on taking a male contraceptive pill, which is the exact same percentage of women that currently use a hormonal contraception. This research project seeks to establish whether the stated evidence regarding Slo1 and Slo3 as potential targets is adequate, whether there is evidence of the expression of Slo1 and/or Slo3 cellular localization in human spermatozoa and whether it can lead to the development of a male contraceptive pill.

Methods: A systematic review on numerous databases was conducted. The searched literature was limited to the English language, Humans, Mice, Vertebrates, Systematic Reviews, Meta-analyses, clinical trials, Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs), animal studies, cohort studies, case-control studies, and qualitative studies. The studies that were considered relevant were then assessed for their eligibility via an amended Downs and Blacks checklist.

Conclusion: Slo1 is highly expressed in the aorta, which should be kept in mind when developing a male contraceptive. Slo1 is not only found in sperm, but it is also present in twelve different tissues. This could present a huge challenge as separate isoforms mean separate proteins. If these are all in sperm, the specificity of the potential male contraceptive may be for different isoforms. The Slo3 channels are involved in various mechanisms affecting male fertility, making Slo3 a potential target for a male contraceptive pill. More studies are needed to further our understanding of Slo3 and Slo1, as there are a lot of gaps in knowledge and not enough studies focusing primarily on humans.