HIV Prevention Trials Network

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Microbicides for Prevention Research

Overview

The HPTN's microbicide agenda is transitioning to the Microbicide Trials Network (MTN).  Information on current HPTN microbicide trials will be maintained on the HPTN website until this transition process is complete.

 

Microbicides are antimicrobial products formulated for application to the surface of the vagina and/or rectum for the prevention of HIV transmission during sexual intercourse. They are considered to be one of the most promising preventive interventions to emerge over the past decade.

 

There are several mechanisms of action that may allow microbicides to prevent HIV transmission. These are: 

  • killing or inactivating pathogens
  • strengthening the body's normal defenses
  • blocking infection by creating a barrier between the pathogen and target cells
  • preventing infection from spreading to other cells

More than 60 products have been evaluated as potential microbicide candidates. The majority of these products have undergone preclinical evaluation, some have advanced into human studies. To be successful in reducing HIV transmission the ideal topical microbicide must have several characteristics: 

  • it must be safe and effective
  • inexpensive and widely accepted
  • available in both spermicidal and non-spermicidal formulations
  • able to be used without partner knowledge. 

Even a partially effective microbicide might have a profound impact on the dynamics of HIV transmission. In fact, researchers have developed a mathematical model that shows that if even a small proportion of women in lower income countries using a 60% efficacious microbicide in half the sexual encounters where condoms are not used, could avert 2.5 million HIV infections over 3 years.

 

Studies

HIVNET 016A

Condom Promotion and Counseling Study

(Concluded)

HPTN 032

Male Tolerance Study of BufferGel and PRO 2000/5 Gel (P)

(Concluded)

HPTN 035

Phase II/IIb Safety and Effectiveness Study of the Vaginal Microbicides BufferGel and 0.5% PRO2000/5 Gel (P) for the Prevention of HIV Infection in Women

(Closed to Follow Up)

HPTN 047

A Phase I Safety and Acceptability Study of the Investigational Vaginal Microbicide PRO 2000/5 Gel (P)

(Concluded)

HPTN 049

Phase I Safety and Acceptability Study of the Vaginal Microbicide 6% Cellulose Sulfate Gel Among HIV-Infected Women

(Concluded)

HPTN 050

Phase I Safety and Acceptability Study of the Vaginal Microbicide Agent PMPA Gel

(Concluded)

HPTN 055

HIV Prevention Preparedness Study

(Concluded)

HPTN 056

Characterization of Baseline Mucosal Indices of Injury and Inflammation in Men for Use in Rectal Microbicide Trials

(Concluded)

HPTN 059

Phase II Expanded Safety and Acceptability Study of the Vaginal Microbicide 1% Tenofovir Gel

(Concluded)
 
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