ANTI-FERTILITY EFFECT OF 3-OXO-4-ANDROSTENE-17-BETA CARBOXYLIC-ACID IN MALE-MICE

In rats [1], rabbits [6] and hamsters [4], the fertilizing capacity of spermatozoa depends on testosterone and its metabolites. The head of the epididymis contains 5-10 times more testosterone (T) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) than the tail of this organ [3]. It is 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT) rather than T that is the active androgen in the target organs for the development and maintenance of fertilizing capacity of spermatozoa in the castrated hamster [5]. We have demonstrated in vitro an inhibition of testosterone 5a-reductase activity by 3-oxo-4-androstene-l7β-carbox-ylic acid (17βC) in the male reproductive organs of the rat [7]. The present report deals with an impact of subcutaneously administered 17βC on the fertilizing capacity of spermatozoa in the mouse. © 1979 Informa UK Ltd.