Biomedical Research
Carraguard May Block HIV by Adhering to Cells
HIV may be ferried deep into the body from the vagina by immune
system cells known as macrophages, suggests new research conducted by
Population Council virologist David M. Phillips and his colleagues. The
research also showed that the Council’s lead candidate microbicide gel,
Carraguard®, is effective at reducing this form of HIV transmission in lab
animals. The Population Council is preparing to enter into large-scale
clinical trials to test Carraguard’s efficacy in blocking HIV
transmission in 4,000 nonpregnant women. The microbicide candidate will
be one of the first products of its kind to enter this advanced phase of
research.
2002
Microbicides
Motivations for and Barriers to Study Participation
To gain insight into the factors that motivate people to participate in
clinical trials, Population Council researchers with colleagues at the
Thailand Ministry of Public Health–U.S. Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention Collaboration recently assessed the interests and concerns of
women in Chiang Rai, Thailand regarding participation in microbicide
clinical trials. Findings from this and similar research may prove
valuable for selecting trial sites, estimating enrollment rates, and
tailoring trials to best meet women’s needs.
2001
Biomedical Research
Nonoxynol-9 Rapidly Exfoliates Rectal Epithelium
New findings suggest that products
containing the spermicide nonoxynol-9 (N-9) may increase the risk of HIV
infection when used during rectal intercourse. David M. Phillips, of the
Population Council's Center for Biomedical Research, and his colleagues
found that N-9 caused the rapid shedding of epithelium when applied
rectally. Surveys in the United States have shown that 41 percent of men
who have sex with men try to use products containing N-9 as lubricants
during rectal sex. This practice stems in part from a belief that such
products may protect against HIV infection. While there is some evidence
in support of this idea, there is also some evidence that N-9 may enhance
HIV transmission.
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