Retinoic acid receptors (RARs) receive signals essential to cell growth and fertility through retinoic acid, a type of vitamin A. By blocking a type of RAR called RAR-α (which only affects fertility, not cell growth), scientists were able to create a male birth control pill that’s 99% effective. The new pill has no adverse side effects, unlike pills targeting testosterone, which often cause depression and heart disease. Although the pill has only been tested by mice, scientists hope to see promising results when human clinical trials start. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
