A new treatment to prevent gonorrhea using bispecific antibodies applied topically.
Official title: Bispecific antibody for topical administration to prevent gonorrhea
Funded at Planet Biotechnology, INC. · NIH-11013480 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help prevent gonorrhea using a special cream that boosts your body's defenses against the bacteria that cause the infection, offering a potentially safer and more effective option for those at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Planet Biotechnology, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hayward, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $299,999 |
| NIH project number | 1R43AI186979-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013480 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of gonorrhea infection, particularly sexually active individuals and those with multiple partners.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already infected with gonorrhea or those who have no risk factors for the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to prevent gonorrhea by developing a bispecific antibody that can be applied topically. The focus is on targeting the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which has become resistant to many antibiotics. The methodology involves creating a fusion protein that enhances the immune response against the bacteria, aiming to reduce infection rates and associated complications. Patients may benefit from a new preventive measure that could be safer and more effective than current options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new preventive treatment for gonorrhea, potentially reducing infection rates and associated health complications.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using bispecific antibodies is innovative, similar strategies in targeting bacterial infections have shown promise in preliminary studies.
Where this research is happening
-
Planet Biotechnology, INC.
Hayward, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wycoff, Keith — Planet Biotechnology, INC.
- Study coordinator: Wycoff, Keith
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.