Vaginal mAB Delivery Systems

Boston University Medical Campus, Boston MA

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

The recent successful trial of tenofovir vaginal gel provides important proof of concept indicating that a vaginal microbicide can prevent HIV. However, the limited protection observed (39% overall), argues for the development of additional microbicide agents and methods to deliver them. This IPCP application will develop a monoclonal antibody (Mab) based microbicide, distinct from the small molecule antiretrovirals that dominate the current microbicide pipeline. Mabs show promise in providing safe, potent, and specific, yet broad-spectrum microbicide action. Project 4 will attempt to enhance Mab effectiveness by its focus on the means of Mab delivery. Limitations on microbicide effectiveness can be divided into two categories: first, intrinsic failure of the method to provide protection when used (