US researchers are testing YCT-529, a hormone-free male birth control pill that could redefine family planning.

  • LaLuzDelSol@lemmy.world
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    9
    ·
    2 days ago

    I’m not an expert, but looking at the research paper this is just blocking one one particular vitamin a receptor, so most functions of vitamin A would not be affected. Once concern is that this particular receptor (RAR-alpha) is partially responsible for neutrophil production, although they didn’t notice any changes in animal tests, possibly because those receptors are tucked away inside your bone marrow. Still could be a concern with long term use though…

    • deegeese@sopuli.xyz
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      1
      ·
      2 days ago

      I suppose the longer term human studies will show if it decreases white blood cell count.

      • LaLuzDelSol@lemmy.world
        link
        fedilink
        English
        arrow-up
        1
        ·
        2 days ago

        Yeah there are still several stages of clinical trials before this gets to market. Here’s hoping though!