Abstract

ANIMAL MODELS IN PRECLINICAL STUDIES FOR ANTIFERTILITY

B. V. Gokul Bal*, Dr. R. Manivannan, M. Bhuvanesh, M. Damodaran, P. Dharani

Abstract

 Preclinical research is a crucial step in the development of antifertility drugs and modern contraceptive technologies. Before any new compound is introduced into human trials, it must be carefully tested in animal models to evaluate its safety, effectiveness, pharmacokinetic behavior, pharmacodynamic effects, and potential reproductive toxicity. Animal species such as rodents, rabbits, and nonhuman primates are commonly used because they mimic several aspects of human reproductive physiology.  Through these models, researchers can study key reproductive processes including ovulation, spermatogenesis, hormonal balance, implantation, and overall reproductive safety. Although animal models cannot completely replicate human reproductive biology, they remain essential for regulatory approval and for ensuring that new contraceptive agents are both safe and effective. This review discusses the basic concepts of fertility and antifertility, the importance of research in this area, classification of antifertility agents, commonly used animal models, anti-implantation and hormonal evaluation methods, and the advantages and limitations of these experimental systems in contraceptive research.

Keywords: Antifertility, Preclinical studies, Animal models, Contraception, Antiimplantation, Hormonal evaluation.