Bioadhesive vaginal film for 7-day protection against HIV, HSV, and pregnancy
Official title: Development of a bioadhesive vaginal film for extended release of MPT antibodies
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11645331 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A vaginal film that slowly releases antibodies to prevent HIV, HSV, and unintended pregnancy for about a week from a single use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $672,881 |
| NIH project number | 6R33HD117426-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11645331 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Women at risk of HIV/HSV infection who seek contraception and ongoing protection.
✕Less likely to help
People seeking non-antibody-based methods or who prefer non-vaginal delivery may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to create a discreet, affordable vaginal film that releases contraceptive and antiviral antibodies over seven days. It builds on prior safety data showing the components are well tolerated and extends them into a sustained-release platform. If successful, the film could offer a convenient option for women at risk of HIV/HSV infection and unintended pregnancy, reducing the need for frequent dosing. The work includes formulation development, safety testing, and ex vivo efficacy studies to optimize delivery during different menstrual and activity conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could provide long-lasting protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections with a single application.
How similar studies have gone: Previous Phase 1 work showed the components can be safely delivered vaginally and reduced infection risk in ex vivo models; this project advances to a sustained-release format.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rohan, Lisa Cencia — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Rohan, Lisa Cencia
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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.