Studies on the in vitro spermicidal activity of synthetic magainins.
Two synthetic magainins A and G are shown to have spermicidal activity. Transmission electron microscopic micrographs show that both magainins alter the plasma membranes of sperm and that these actions are rapid. Further studies will better delineate the contraceptive potential of synthetic magainins.
Edelstein
M C
MC
Howard and Georgeanna Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia.
Gretz
J E
JE
Bauer
T J
TJ
Fulgham
D L
DL
Alexander
N J
NJ
Archer
D F
DF
D023181:Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008297:Male; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D010455:Peptides / Q000494:pharmacology*; D012661:Semen / Q000502:physiology; D013081:Sperm Motility / Q000187:drug effects; D013089:Spermatocidal Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D013090:Spermatocytes / Q000187:drug effects*
D023181:Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides; D010455:Peptides; D013089:Spermatocidal Agents; C067773:magainin A; C066946:magainin G