A small vaginal implant developed by scientists at the University of Waterloo (Canada) could help protect women from transmitting HIV . The device works by reducing the number of immune cells that are arrayed against the virus , and that in doing so make them vulnerable to infection.
NO MOVEMENT
In fact, HIV spreads by preferentially corrupting the T lymphocytes , white blood cells that the immune system puts in place to counter "the intruder". However, it has been observed that the lymphocytes, if instead of intervening to promptly fight the virus, if they remain initially at rest (in a defined state of immune quiescence), they are not infected and the transmission does not take place. Oral medications designed to induce this "armed truce" are not always effective. The device that acts in the exact place of sexual transmission , could give better results, and in an economic way.
HOW DOES IT WORK
Just a spiral-like appearance, the implant consists of a hollow, porous tube that gradually releases hydroxychloroquine , an antimalarial drug that also has the effect of calming immune activation .
The substance is gradually absorbed by the female genital tract, while two folding arms hold the device in place.
The research has been inspired by some past studies on Kenyan women who had not contracted infection despite repeated unprotected sex with HIV-positive men . Subsequent analyzes had revealed that the T lymphocytes of these women were in a state of immune quiescence . The Canadian team then tried to reproduce this condition pharmacologically.
HOW RELIABLE IS IT?
For now the implant has been tested, with good results, on animal models, where it has led to a significant reduction of T lymphocyte activity. The next step will be to understand if it can be used on patients, whether it is safe even on its own or if instead it should be combined with other forms of prevention.