Non-hormonal Contraceptive Multipurpose Prevention Technology (MPT) Containing Q-Griffithsin (QGRFT)
The Population Council is developing a self-administered, non-hormonal contraceptive fast-dissolving insert for on-demand prevention of pregnancy, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections. Additional benefits may include the prevention of bacterial vaginosis.
Development Stage:
Preclinical – Early (Pre1)
Hormonal/Non-Hormonal:
Non-Hormonal
Delivery Route & Method:
Topical - Fast Dissolving Insert/Capsule-Vaginal
Mechanism of Action:
The selected organic acids will lower vaginal pH (pH = 3.5-4.5) in the presence of semen. The low pH inactivates sperm and bacteria. When inserted into the vagina, the FDI dissolves into a viscous gel delivering the active agents throughout the vaginal lumen to prevent sperm penetration. QGRFT is a potent non-antiretroviral (ARV) inhibitor of HIV. QGRFT binds to HIV envelope glycoproteins and prevents entry of HIV into target cells.
Developer:
- Population Council
Funding:
- Nat. Institute Allergy & Infect. Diseases (NIAID)
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Population Council
- U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
Funding Mechanism:
NIH: R01 (NIAID)
MATRIX
Active Ingredient(s):
- QGRFT
- Organic acids
Product Indication(s):
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- HIV
- HSV-2
- Pregnancy