Inhibition of liquefaction and protein degradation in human semen by gossypol.
The liquefaction of freshly ejaculated human semen was delayed by gossypol. Liquefaction is normally accompanied by an autolytic degradation of semen proteins, and prior incubation with gossypol can inhibit factors (presumably proteinases) present in seminal plasma that degrade semen proteins. The possible consequences of this inhibition are discussed in relation to the proposed use of gossypol as a vaginal contraceptive.
D006072:Gossypol / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D011480:Protease Inhibitors; D011506:Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D012661:Semen / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000201:enzymology / Q000378:metabolism; D012995:Solubility; D014622:Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies
D011480:Protease Inhibitors; D011506:Proteins; D014622:Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies; D006072:Gossypol