IMMUNOLOGIC ASPECTS OF FERTILITY CONTROL

Abstract

A survey has been presented of immunologic experiments and ideas pertaining to reproductive physiology in man and lower animals. The status with respect to fertility control is assessed and, with the exception of induction of aspermatogenesis, considered to offer mainly prospective rather than presently effective procedures. Prospects for qualitative, as well as quantitative control of fertility are also considered, and the role of studies of protein biosynthesis in this connection is further indicated. The use of immunologic reagents for diagnostic purposes in reproductive physiology is indicated, as in detection of ovulation and early tests of pregnancy. The role of naturally occurring immunologic situations, such as the ABO blood groups in infertility, is considered. Also, the naturally occurring antigen-antibody-like interaction of the receptor substances of egg and sperm is discussed with reference to their potential use as antifertility agents. A new theory of parturition as graft-versus-host reaction is presented.