A new non-hormonal contraceptive intravaginal ring using anti-sperm antibodies
Official title: Nonhormonal contraceptive intravaginal ring based on high valency anti-sperm antibody constructs
Funded at Mucommune, LLC · NIH-10693139 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of birth control that uses a special ring you can place inside your body to release antibodies that catch sperm, giving women a non-hormonal option that’s easy to use without needing to take something every day or worry about timing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mucommune, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morrisville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 14, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $535,972 |
| NIH project number | 5R33HD099747-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10693139 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women of reproductive age who are seeking non-hormonal contraceptive methods.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking contraceptive options or those who prefer hormonal methods may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a non-hormonal contraceptive method using an intravaginal ring that releases antibodies to bind and trap sperm, preventing fertilization. The approach focuses on creating a user-controlled device that does not require daily dosing or coital timing, addressing common concerns about hormonal contraceptives. By utilizing advances in antibody production, the study seeks to provide a practical and effective alternative for women who prefer non-hormonal options. The research builds on previous animal model validations to ensure safety and efficacy in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide women with a safe, effective, and user-friendly contraceptive option that does not involve hormones.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using antibody-based methods for contraception, but this specific approach with an intravaginal ring is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Mucommune, LLC
Morrisville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moench, Thomas Ray — Mucommune, LLC
- Study coordinator: Moench, Thomas Ray
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.