Developing a new type of intravaginal ring for contraception and STI prevention
Next Generation Multipurpose Intravaginal Ring Technology Using Innovative CLIP 3D Printing
This study is testing a new type of intravaginal ring that can release several medications at once to help prevent unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, like HIV and herpes, using cool 3D printing technology to make it more effective and tailored to women's needs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10752633 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating an innovative intravaginal ring (IVR) that can deliver multiple drugs simultaneously to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV and herpes. By utilizing advanced 3D printing technology, known as continuous liquid interface production (CLIP), the researchers aim to design IVRs with complex shapes that enhance drug release and effectiveness. This approach allows for a more personalized and efficient method of drug delivery that is controlled by women, promoting greater autonomy in reproductive health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women of reproductive age who are at risk for unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are not sexually active or those who do not require contraception or STI prevention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide women with a highly effective, user-friendly method of preventing both unintended pregnancies and STIs.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in the development of intravaginal rings, but this specific approach using CLIP technology is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Benhabbour, Soumya Rahima — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Benhabbour, Soumya Rahima
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 below.