The objective of this project is to synthesize new gossypol derivatives for use as male contraceptives. The fact that gossypol itself is already being used as a male contraceptive agent in China, and the need for an inexpensive, reversible, nontoxic male contraceptive in developing countries indicates that new, more potent gossypol derivatives will be commercially successful.The gossypol derivatives will be tested for ability to inhibit androgen and estrogen binding to proteins, sperm motility, and sperm metabolism. Sufficient quantities of these analogues for later in vivo studies (Phase II) with rats and hamsters will be prepared. Later studies (Phase II) may also include testing these gossypol derivatives for ability to inhibit the growth of tzypanosoma cruzi and killing herpes virus.National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)