Microbicides are a new way of thinking about preventing sexually transmitted infections and one that has been getting increasing support from funders like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. They refer to a range of products that when applied topically prevent the transmission of HIV and other diseases. They are a groundbreaking prevention method for both sexes and a potentially lifesaving tool for women, who are two to four times more vulnerable than men to sexually transmitted HIV infection.
CONRAD's scientists have been involved in pre-clinical testing of almost every microbicide in late stage clinical trials. We are currently conducting ongoing human clinical trials of Ushercell, a cellulose sulfate gel envisioned for use as a contraceptive and for the prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Ushercell has shown a consistent, strong safety profile over more than a decade in development and has progressed to a Phase II efficacy trial indicating that Ushercell is a highly effective contraceptive, and Phase III clinical trials ongoing at six sites in Nigeria, Benin, Burkino Faso, South Africa, Uganda and India to determine its effectiveness in prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
The ideal characteristics of a microbicide would be:
- Active against a range of sexually transmitted pathogens
- Not irritating to mucosal surfaces
- Available in spermicidal and non-spermicidal formulations
- Effective over relatively long periods
- Acceptable to potential users in regards to odor, color, taste, portability
- Stable at high temperatures
- Able to maintain or enhance normal vaginal ecology
- Not systemically absorbed
Scientists are working to develop microbicides that would combat sexually transmitted infections in one or more of the following ways:
- Kill or immobilize STI pathogens
- Form a barrier between the pathogen and vaginal or rectal tissue
- Block early steps in infectious processes
- Prevent the pathogen from replicating once it has entered cells
- Boost the vagina's own defense system
It is our hope at CONRAD that a safe and effective microbicide will be available to women everywhere by the end of the decade. For detailed information on the current microbicide pipeline and clinical trials, please go to: www.microbicide.org.
Links to other organizations involved in microbicide development
Alliance for Microbicide Development - Consortium of representatives from industry, non-profit research institutions, and advocacy groups dedicated to microbicide development.
Global Campaign for Microbicides - International campaign to build support for increased investment for microbicides and other user-controlled prevention methods.
Microbicides Research & Development Portfolio (MRDP) Database for the NIAID.
Combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic and improving women's health
