KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 1 — Drs Myron S. Cohen and Wafaa M. El-Sadr, principal investigators of the HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN), in collaboration with FHI 360, have received a seven-year award from the US National Institutes of Health as part of the next funding cycle (2020-2027) for the Network.
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The core and protocol-specific funding will enable the HPTN to continue its HIV prevention research efforts focused on developing new biomedical prevention methods and optimising the integration of proven biomedical, behavioural and structural interventions to achieve high-effectiveness and impact.
During this new funding cycle, the HPTN will focus on four priority areas including identifying novel antiretroviral (ARV)-based methods and delivery systems for HIV prevention, and developing multi-purpose technologies for HIV prevention as well as for contraception and prevention of other sexually transmitted infections.
The HPTN will also continue as a partner in the COVID-19 Prevention Network (CoVPN). The recently-formed CoVPN evaluates biological agents, including vaccines and monoclonal antibodies to prevent COVID-19.
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Recognising the challenges of long-term adherence to daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), the HPTN has intensely pursued research to evaluate the safety and efficacy of long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB LA) for PrEP.
Future approaches may include the use of implants, patches, and microneedles to deliver CAB LA and/or other long-acting ARVs, according to a statement.
Combining ARV-based prevention tools that protect against HIV acquisition with efficacious contraceptive agents is compelling for persons who desire contraception and HIV prevention.
Based in Durham, NC, FHI 360, a nonprofit human development organisation, has been the leadership and operations centre for the HPTN for more than 15 years and will continue to serve that role. – BERNAMA