Reversible Male Contraceptive

Background

The global population, currently at 7.8 billion, is projected by the United Nations (UN) to reach between 9.6 and 12.3 billion by 2100. Uncontrolled population growth significantly contributes to environmental degradation, with unplanned pregnancies being a major factor due to insufficient access to effective contraception. Male contraceptive options are notably limited, relying on female compliance, condoms (with a ~15% failure rate), or vasectomies (which are poorly reversible). To address this gap, we have developed a novel on-demand reversible male contraceptive. This innovation empowers men to take an active role in fertility decisions, potentially impacting population growth and societal gender dynamics.

Technology Overview

Stellenbosch’s solution is a 2-component hydrogel designed to block the vas deferens, thus preventing the passage of sperm cells. Unlike vasectomy, this hydrogel is easily reversible, restoring fertility. The hydrogel is formulated from two aqueous polymer solutions with complementary reactive groups that form a gel in 10-30 seconds upon mixing. This rapid gelation minimizes damage to the vas deferens. The hydrogel is stable and inert under physiological conditions, blocking sperm passage while allowing fluid diffusion. Reversibility is achieved by injecting a biocompatible compound that “uncrosslinks” and dissolves the hydrogel. This method is highly effective due to the low viscosity of the solution post-uncrosslinking, offering superior reversibility compared to other products like RISUG/Vasalgel.

Under practical conditions, the reversibility of the newly developed system is far superior to that of the currently available hydrogels.

Stage of Development

The technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4. In vitro experiments to test gelation and redissolution times have been conducted. The hydrogel’s impermeability has been confirmed using silica particles the size of sperm heads. Histological studies of the vas deferens post-insertion and removal of the hydrogel indicate less damage compared to traditional hydrogels.

Benefits

• Reliable and long-lasting: more effective than condoms with better longevity
• Easily reversible
• Non-hormonal
• Minimal damage: low viscosity during injection reduces deformation and damage to the vas deferens

Applications

Primarily designed as a reversible male contraceptive, this hydrogel could also be investigated for female contraceptive use or other applications requiring on-demand hydrogel reversibility.

Opportunity

To advance, Stellenbosch require partners and funding for pre-clinical trials, likely involving dogs or primates. Stellenbosch is seeking a development partner to collaborate on this exciting advancement.