Results of microbicide trial were announced today.

The results of the MDP301 trial of PRO2000 gel were announced today.  This gel was being developed as a possible microbicide to protect women from HIV infection during sex.  The results revealed that PRO2000 was safe but did not provide protection against HIV.

Deborah Jack, Chief Executive of NAT (National AIDS Trust);

“Whilst disappointing these findings offer valuable lessons and insights on the road to developing new tools to prevent HIV.  AIDS is the leading cause of death among women of reproductive age (15 – 49 yrs) globally.  So it is vital we learn lessons from this trial and move forward to develop a tool that gives women more power to protect themselves from HIV.

The UK Government has shown great leadership in supporting efforts to develop microbicides.  Despite the economic downturn, the HIV community is looking to the UK to sustain international momentum on microbicide development.

There are other microbicide options currently in development which are promising.  We remain optimistic that with continued investment and support, science and technology will equip us with new tools to fight HIV.”

Notes to the editor:

For further information please contact: 
Katherine Sladden
Communications Officer
NAT
020 7814 6733 
press@nat.org.uk

NAT 
NAT (National AIDS Trust) is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to transforming society’s response to HIV. We provide fresh thinking, expert advice and practical resources. We campaign for change.
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