Van der Horst, GMaritz, G.S.Hattingh, Nicole Lisa2023-06-152024-04-172023-06-152024-04-171999https://hdl.handle.net/10566/11179Magister Scientiae (Biodiversity and Conservation Biology)Although the modern era of contraception has focused attention on the female, research into male contraception is continuing on several fronts. Despite the widespread use of premature withdrawal, the condom and vasectomy, there is no acceptable drug for controlling fertility in the male. Research and developments to suppress the sperm production, inhibit the maturation of sperrn, and block sperrn transport are under investigation. Thus, a strong demand exists for a safe, reversible and effective male contraceptive. A compoundN'N-bis(dichloroacetyl)- 1,8-octamethylenediamine, commonly known as WIN 18446 used in the treatment of amebiasis was found to possess antispermatogenic activity. WIN 18446 (WIN), the most potent of the bis(dichloroacetyl)diamines and one of the least active amoebicidal agents was shown to exert a specific effect on the testes while the Leydig cells were unaffected. Full recovery of spermatogenesis is established upon the withdrawal of WIN. One drawback associated with this compound was that the human consumption of alcohol induced an antabuse effectContraceptionWin 18446AntispermatogenicDNC and mxALHN'N-bis(dichloroacetyl)University of Western Cape