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Microbicide for prevention of sexually transmitted diseases using a pharmaceutical excipient
1New York Blood Center, NY, USA. rneurath@nybc.org
Abstract:
Preferred microbicides are expected to inactivate most sexually transmitted viral and nonviral pathogens, including HIV-1, without affecting lactobacilli, components of the natural defense system against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), be widely available, be inexpensive, and have an established safety record for human use. We show here that cellulose acetate phthalate [C-A-P enteric coating polymer (Eastman)], a compound used for coating of enteric tablets, meets all these criteria.
Insights
Cellulose acetate phthalate, a polymer used in tablet coatings, effectively inactivates sexually transmitted pathogens like HIV-1. This compound is safe, inexpensive, and widely available, making it a promising microbicide candidate.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Public Health
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Microbicides are crucial for preventing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
- Ideal microbicides must target pathogens without harming beneficial vaginal lactobacilli.
- Existing microbicides face challenges with availability, cost, and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate cellulose acetate phthalate (C-A-P) as a potential microbicide.
- To determine if C-A-P meets the criteria for an effective and safe microbicide.
Main Methods:
- Assessing C-A-P's efficacy against various sexually transmitted viral and nonviral pathogens.
- Evaluating C-A-P's impact on lactobacilli populations.
- Considering C-A-P's availability, cost, and established safety profile.
Main Results:
- Cellulose acetate phthalate demonstrated inactivation of key STD pathogens, including HIV-1.
- C-A-P did not adversely affect lactobacilli, preserving the natural vaginal defense system.
- The compound is widely available, inexpensive, and possesses a known human safety record.
Conclusions:
- Cellulose acetate phthalate meets all essential criteria for a preferred microbicide.
- C-A-P represents a promising, accessible, and safe option for STD prevention.