Gene interference key to new contraceptive

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Scientists say a contraceptive drug that avoids the side effects of hormonal birth control looks possible. An American Society for Reproductive Medicine conference has been told a technique called "RNA interference" could stop sperm entering the egg.

RNA interference is a way of silencing a gene to stop it working properly.

Researchers from a Boston Women's Hospital have identified a gene called ZP3, which is active in eggs just before they are fertilised.

ZP3 produces a protein which allows the sperm to bind to the surface of the egg.

If this protein is not there, the egg can not be fertilised.

However, the new pill is at least a decade away. © 2007 Australian Broadcasting Corporation

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Posted October 18th, 2007 by Dinka