Development of combination vaginal ring formulations for HIV prevention and contraception

Thirty years since the discovery of HIV, HIV/AIDS remains a major global health priority. In the absence of an effective vaccine, there is considerable interest in developing female-controlled preventative strategies to reduce the rates of sexual transmission of HIV. A vaginally administered microbicidal gel, containing the antiretroviral drug tenofovir, recently demonstrated proof-of-concept in a human clinical trial (Karim 2010). A silicone elastomer vaginal ring delivery device releasing dapivirine, initially developed in this research group, is due to enter Phase III clinical studies in 2012, with the aim of extending HIV protection over 28 days.

In this project, the overall aim is to develop a second-generation dapivirine ring device that, in addition to its HIV protective effect, is also capable of providing a contraceptive function through the simultaneous release of a progestogenic compound – a so-called ‘dual protection’ technology. We anticipate that this can be achieved through combining the dapivirine and the progestin compounds in specific ways within a ring device. The work will involve a number of scientific challenges and will provide the student with experience and key skills in a wide range of drug delivery and experimental techniques, including ring manufacture, in vitro release testing, stability analysis, and analytical methods. Also, the student will have the support of a well-established research group with extensive experience in this area.

Full funding for this PhD studentship has already been secured from the International Partnership for Microbicides.

Further information on the project can be obtained by emailing Dr Karl Malcolm ([Email Address Removed]).

START DATE FOR THIS PROJECT IS APRIL 2012