Nanofibers: A New Platform for Protecting Against HIV and Pregnancy?

Nanofibers can physically block sperm, as shown here. The fibers can also release spermicide and other chemicals. In theory, it shouldn't be too difficult to protect oneself against HIV and other STIs, as well as pregnancy. Condoms, after all, are very effective. But in practice, it's not so simple. Many of the people at high risk for HIV, for instance, are women who don't have much control over whether their partners wear protection. Taking daily medication or applying drug-laden gels also have their downsides---people forget, they find it inconvenient, there's social stigma. So finding ways to provide protection thats get over these hurdles is an important research goal. Scientists at the University of Washington think a new delivery platform may be a step in the right direction. They've created nanofibers embedded with pre-existing drugs against HIV-1, HIV-2, and sperm. Theoretically, these stretchy microfabrics could be inserted into the vagina directly ...