Virucides in prevention of HIV infection: research priorities

Article Abstract:

Vaginal spermicides may help prevent HIV infection and other types of sexually transmitted diseases in women. These preparations are antiseptics with virucidal properties, or the ability to kill different types of viruses. Vaginal spermicides that are used in different contraceptive products include nonoxynol-9, octoxynol-9, benzalkonium chloride and menfegol. They are used in many different forms including foams, jellies, creams, sponges, suppositories and as a coating for condoms. Research studies have found that spermicides have activity against HIV and herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. They also have activity against the bacteria that cause gonorrhea and syphilis. Their effectiveness in preventing Chlamydia infections is still questionable. Vaginal spermicides offer women a method of protection from infection that can be used independently of their partner.

Usage, HIV infection, HIV infections, Antiviral agents

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Genomic homogeneity of the AHU/IA-1,2 phenotype of Neisseria gonorrhoeae during its disappearance from an urban population

Article Abstract:

The selective disappearance of a particular strain of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, AHU/IA-1,2, from the Seattle area could be related to its remarkable genetic uniformity. This strain accounted for 52% of the gonorrhea cases reported in Seattle-King County during 1971 through 1974. Fewer were found in subsequent years, and none of this type of Neisseria was identified from 1994 through 1996. Sixty-eight AHU/IA-1,2 samples were examined for genetic diversity and found to be notably unvarying when compared with 10 isolates of another type, AHU/IB. The possible role of this uniformity in the organism's survival is not yet understood.

Analysis, Genetic aspects, Phenotype, Phenotypes, Neisseria gonorrhoeae

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Do spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 prevent sexually transmitted infections? A meta-analysis

Article Abstract:

Nonoxynol-9 appears to be effective in reducing the transmission of gonorrhea and chlamydia but more research is needed to determine its effect on HIV transmission. Researchers used meta-analysis to evaluate 12 studies of nonoxynol-9, six of which were clinical trials. Six clinical trials of gonorrhea found that nonoxynol-9 lowered the transmission rate by about 40%. The four clinical trials of chlamydia found that nonoxynol-9 lowered the transmission rate by 25%. One clinical trial and one observational study of HIV produced conflicting results.

Sexually transmitted diseases, Sexually transmitted disease prevention

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