Developing a new male contraceptive that works on demand

Optimization of lead candidates for an on-demand male contraceptive

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10933039

This study is exploring a new non-hormonal birth control option for men by looking at a specific enzyme that helps sperm move, with the goal of finding a safe and effective pill that can help prevent pregnancy without using hormones.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10933039 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a non-hormonal male contraceptive by targeting a specific enzyme called soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC), which is crucial for sperm activation and motility. The researchers will design and test various inhibitors of sAC to determine their effectiveness in blocking sperm functions while minimizing side effects. Through a combination of laboratory and animal studies, they aim to identify the most promising candidates for further development into a safe and effective oral contraceptive. If successful, this could provide men with a reliable method of contraception that does not involve hormonal treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men who are seeking a non-hormonal contraceptive option.

Not a fit: Patients who are not male or those who do not wish to use contraception may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide men with a safe, effective, and reversible method of contraception.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting sAC is novel, similar research in developing non-hormonal contraceptives has shown promise in preliminary studies.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.