Evaluation of the antifertility effect of magainin-A in rabbits: in vitro and in vivo studies.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the safety and contraceptive potential of magainin-A in rabbits.


METHODS
Controlled laboratory study.


METHODS
Department of Immunology, Institute for Research in Reproduction, Mumbai, Parel, India.


METHODS
Forty-eight female New Zealand white rabbits.


METHODS
The effect of magainin-A on sperm motility (in vitro and in vivo studies) and on vaginal epithelium (histologic study) was assessed along with serum and liver biochemical profiles.


METHODS
Suitability of magainin-A for contraceptive use.


RESULTS
Magainin-A arrested sperm motility, and 1 mg of magainin-A administered intravaginally blocked conception. No histopathologic abnormalities in the vaginal tissue or any changes in serum biochemical profiles were observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Magainin-A may be used as an effective and safe intravaginal contraceptive compound that also has antibacterial properties.
Reddy
V R
VR
Division of Immunology, Institute for Research in Reproduction, Mumbai, Parel, India. libirr@icmrirr.bom.nic.in
Manjramkar
D D
DD
D000818:Animals; D023181:Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides; D004848:Epithelium / Q000187:drug effects / Q000648:ultrastructure; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008099:Liver / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D008297:Male; D010455:Peptides / Q000097:blood / Q000494:pharmacology*; D011817:Rabbits; D013081:Sperm Motility / Q000187:drug effects*; D013089:Spermatocidal Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D014621:Vagina / Q000187:drug effects
D023181:Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides; D010455:Peptides; D013089:Spermatocidal Agents; C067773:magainin A