ABSTRACT
Experiments on the effects of antibodies on fertilization date back to the turn of the century, when Metchnikoff investigated the agglutination of sperm by antisera gen erated against homogenized testis (Landsteiner and Metchnikoff, 1899). Many early experiments utilized whole testis immunogen to examine the effects of antisera (in vivo and in vitro) in a number of species, including human (reviewed by Tyler, 1961). The outcome of these experiments varied widely, dependent on the site of immunization, immunogen used, and endpoint assay. Decades of studies to refine an immunocontraceptive vaccine have yet to provide a definitive approach. This is due, in part, to the complexities of both the immune system and the reproductive system. The studies have, however, provided a wealth of knowledge about the interactions of the immune system with the reproductive system. In so doing, they have been important not only for refining approaches to such a vaccine, but also for providing information essential for the development of treatments for reproductive tract disorders, including sexually transmitted diseases.
