Modulation of sperm activity in fertility and contraception
Invention Prof. Naor’s team has recently discovered that two Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases (MAPKs) play a role in human sperm functions. The team discovered that human sperm progressive and hyperactivated motility is maintained by the ratio of these kinases, by either stimulating or inhibiting motility. These kinases are present in human spermatozoa in patches along the mid, principal and end pieces of the tail. Known inhibitors of these kinases were effective in modulating sperm motility. The two enzymes participate also in the process of acrosome reaction. The Need Fertility Over the last decade in-vitro fertilization (IVF), or the use of cryopreserved spermatozoa during assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) in humans, farm and pet animals have become a major way of treatment. In all, there is a need to improve sperm quality. In addition there is a need for a diagnostic kit to assess sperm quality in a fast, reliable, inexpensive and objective method. Low sperm motility and weakened acrosome reaction (AR) are major causes of fertilization failure with IVF. Decreased sperm motility is a major problem in ART of farm and pet animals, when frozen sperm are used. Therefore, great effort has been invested into methods for improving fertilization success by enhancing sperm activity.Contraception Hormone based contraceptive (the pill) represent the "blockbuster" approach; acts on many tissues (over 100) and this class of drugs may be over. 21st century contraceptives should be based on 'rational drug design' and targeted to one tissue or if possible to one cell ("magic bullet"). Hormonal contraceptives for men face many disadvantages. The digestive system quickly breaks down the hormone and toxic byproducts can accumulate in the liver. Also, there is concern that hormonal contraceptives may increase a man's risk of prostate cancer and cause the loss of libido. Novel and more effective contraceptive methods for both men and women and animals, with fewer side effects would be highly desirable.
Potential Applications These findings present the basis for:
A diagnostic tool for sperm quality analysis (ELISA-based assay; fast, reliable, objective). Agents modulating spermatozoa in fertility control and contraceptive pharmaceuticals for humans, farm and pet animals. Novel targets for new 21st century contraceptives (immunocontraceptives).
Stage The team has demonstrated an excellent correlation between sperm motility, forward progression grade, morphology and viability (the 4 parameters measured manually in male clinics as a measure for sperm quality) and the level of expression of these kinases in human sperm (as detected by western blotting with type specific antibodies, which can be the basis for an ELISA-based assay). The increased expression of two known selective isoforms of MAPK is an excellent predictor for poor human sperm quality. Patent US Tech Transfer Officer Ms. Irit Ben-Chlouch Office: +972-3-6406601 Fax: +972-3-6406675 Mail: [email protected]
Inventor(s): Professor Zvi Naor
Type of Offer: Licensing
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