Population Council Research that makes a difference

In an effort to determine whether an intrauterine system (IUS) that releases the progesterone receptor modulator CDB-2914 is feasible, animal studies were being carried out to establish the effect of the IUS on the endometrium. A collaborating investigator at the Oregon National Primate Research Center tested the IUS in rhesus macaque monkeys. The devices were implanted and kept in place for three cycles, followed by uterus removal at the end of the third cycle.

While the available data are preliminary, the regular withdrawal bleeding seen in control animals at the beginning of each cycle was completely blocked in animals treated with the CDB-2914 IUS. This indicates that CDB-2914 prevented progestational development of the endometrium, an indication that this approach may result in a new, bleed-free contraceptive for women. The studies are continuing in order to establish the viability of this approach.