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January 15, 2025 – Portland, OR
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) have developed an innovative lab model that could lead to the creation of new, non-hormonal birth control methods. The research focuses on understanding how cervical mucus changes during the menstrual cycle and its role in regulating fertility. The breakthrough study, published in Biology of Reproduction, aims to provide alternatives to hormonal contraceptives, a significant step forward in family planning.
The study, led by Dr. Leo Han, M.D., M.P.H., Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at OHSU School of Medicine, explores the genetic mechanisms behind cervical mucus production. Han, a complex family planning specialist, has dedicated his career to developing novel contraceptive methods. His research team has identified numerous genes involved in mucus production, which could serve as drug targets for a new class of contraceptives that block sperm without the use of hormones.
“Over 95% of unintended pregnancies in the U.S. are due to improper or inconsistent use of contraception,” said Dr. Han. “There are many individuals who want to avoid pregnancy but either cannot or do not wish to use hormonal birth control. The cervix plays a key role in fertility regulation, acting as a natural barrier for sperm entry. By understanding how cervical mucus works, we can create a targeted non-hormonal solution.”
The research highlights the pivotal role of cervical mucus in the reproductive process. During the fertile window around ovulation, estrogen causes mucus to become thinner, allowing sperm to pass through the cervix. After ovulation, progesterone thickens the mucus, blocking sperm and pathogens from entering the upper reproductive tract. This cyclical change in mucus is critical for fertility and conception.
Lead author of the study, Dr. Katrina Rapp, M.D., who was an OHSU medical student at the time of the research, emphasized the importance of addressing unmet contraceptive needs. “Throughout medical school, I engaged with numerous women who desired a non-invasive, non-hormonal contraceptive option. Cervical mucus serves as an ideal target due to its natural role in regulating fertility.”
To investigate the molecular processes behind cervical mucus production, the researchers developed an in vitro lab model using cells from rhesus macaques, whose cervices are similar to humans. Through RNA sequencing, the team was able to map the genetic activity in cultured endocervical cells. This enabled the identification of genes that regulate the mucus production cycle, providing potential targets for future drug development.
“One of our major findings was the identification of about 150 different genes in one group and 250 in another, all of which showed substantial differences under varying hormonal conditions,” said Dr. Han. “These genes could be pivotal in developing drugs that influence mucus behavior and prevent sperm entry.”
The study offers a powerful new tool for understanding cervical mucus and fertility regulation. Moving forward, the research team plans to test non-hormonal inhibitors of fertile mucus production in nonhuman primates, bringing them closer to developing a viable contraceptive option.
Dr. Rapp highlighted the broader implications of the research, particularly for marginalized communities. “Unmet contraceptive needs and unplanned pregnancies disproportionately affect socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. This research could help promote reproductive justice by offering more accessible birth control options.”
With this promising new model, OHSU researchers are pioneering the development of non-hormonal birth control methods that could transform reproductive health care.
For more information, refer to the full study: Transcriptional profiling of mucus production in rhesus macaque endocervical cells under hormonal regulation, published in Biology of Reproduction (2024). DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae121.
