NIH-funded research Sbir 2 grant

Developing a vaginal ring to treat and prevent genital herpes

Official title: IND-enabling Preclinical Development of a Sustained-release Pritelivir Intravaginal ring for the Treatment and Prophylaxis of Genital Herpes

Funded at Auritec Pharmaceuticals, INC. · NIH-10929431 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new type of vaginal ring that slowly releases a medication called pritelivir to help treat and prevent genital herpes, aiming to offer a better treatment option for those affected by this common condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAuritec Pharmaceuticals, INC.
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pasadena, United States)
Project startFebruary 1, 2018
Project endAugust 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$1,025,000
NIH project number5R44AI136201-05
Project IDNIH-10929431 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of or currently suffering from genital herpes.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have genital herpes or are not at risk for the infection may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a sustained-release intravaginal ring that delivers pritelivir, a promising antiviral medication, to treat and prevent genital herpes. Genital herpes is a widespread condition affecting millions, and current treatment options are limited. The study aims to utilize a novel platform technology that has previously been successful in delivering antiviral agents effectively. By testing the safety and effectiveness of this new delivery method in preclinical models, the research seeks to provide a more effective treatment option for patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment and prevention method for genital herpes, improving the quality of life for many patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar sustained-release delivery systems for antiviral agents, indicating potential for this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Auritec Pharmaceuticals, INC.
    Pasadena, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Smith, Thomas J. — Auritec Pharmaceuticals, INC.
  • Study coordinator: Smith, Thomas J.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.