Title: Things to come: Nano-technology and HIV prevention.

POPLINE Document Number: 314854

Author(s):

Wolbring G

Source citation:

Contact, 2006 Aug;(182):36.

Abstract:

The Australian pharmaceutical company Starpharma performs research on an nano-technology-based anti-microbial gel which prevents HIV infection of cells. The vaginal gel, SPL7013, uses nanoparticle called dendrimers to encapsulate and disable HIV. "VivaGel had good results in Phase 1 human clinical trials: it appears to be non-toxic, non-irritating, and successful at preventing HIV and genital herpes" . Studies also show that viruses are not evolving resistance to the microbicide. The product is now in expanded phase 1-2 trials, being tested around the world in various populations. It still has along way to go but the indications are positive. The United States' National Institutes of Health's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) signed a $20.3 million contract to fund VivaGel development for HIV prevention in October 2005. Two months ago, the NIAID signed another agreement to fund clinical trials of VivaGel aimed to study its application for genital herpes prevention. The United States Food and Drug Administration has granted VivaGel fast track status, which will be beneficial for phase 3 trials, cutting in half the time it takes for product registration and getting the product to market. The Food and Drug Administration's support of VivaGel has been something of a landmark as this is the first dendrimer to go through its system. (excerpt)

Keywords:

Australia
United States
Progress Report
Evaluation
Women
HIV Prevention
Technology
Vaginal Gel
Microbicides
Research and Development
Private Sector
USFDA
Product Approval
Oceania
Developed Countries
North America
Americas
Demographic Factors
Population
HIV Infections
Viral Diseases
Diseases
Economic Factors
Vaginal Spermicides
Contraceptive Methods
Contraception
Family Planning
Drugs
Treatment
Medical Procedures
Medicine
Health Services
Delivery of Health Care
Health
Macroeconomic Factors
USPHS
Government Agencies
Organizations
Political Factors
Sociocultural Factors
Legislation