Targeting a specific calcium channel in sperm for new contraceptive methods
Official title: Engineering and targeting the sperm-specific calcium channel CatSper for contraception
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11017045 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new kind of birth control for men that works by blocking a specific channel in sperm, which could help prevent pregnancy without the side effects of traditional methods.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $374,999 |
| NIH project number | 5R61HD114344-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017045 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are men seeking non-steroidal contraceptive options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not male or those who do not seek contraceptive methods may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new type of contraceptive by targeting the sperm-specific CatSper calcium channel, which is essential for sperm function and male fertility. The approach involves inhibiting this channel to prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg, offering a non-steroidal option for contraception. The researchers have created innovative chimeric channels to study the mechanism of action and develop reversible contraceptives without negative side effects. This could provide a more effective and comprehensive birth control solution for both men and women.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, effective contraceptive method that is safe and reversible for both men and women.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting calcium channels for contraception is a novel approach, similar strategies in other areas of reproductive health have shown promise.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chung, Jean-Ju Lucia — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Chung, Jean-Ju Lucia
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.