Viriom successfully completes clinical safety trial with novel NNRTI, advances to efficacy studies in HIV-infected patients, and to development of HIV microbicide formulation
The Russian Corporation of Nanotechnologies (known as Rusnano) in Moscow, along with a yet-to-be announced co-investor, plans to fund the development of up to 15 potential drug molecules that have unique mechanisms of action, taking them from the preclinical development stage through to Phase 2 clinical trials. "We expect that of the 15 compounds, a few will support the investment," says Andrey Ivaschenko, chairman of ChemRar, the Moscow-based pharmaceutical and biotechnology services company that will provide the first five target molecules. Although the investment is not a huge sum, he notes, a compound can be developed to the Phase 2 clinical stage in Russia for $5-10 million.
Rabochaya St. 2-a, bldg. 1
Khimki, Moscow
141400, Russia
Phone: +7 (495) 995-4944
Fax: +7 (495) 626-9780
www.viriom.com
Prevention
How can HIV infection / AIDS be prevented?
Avoidance of infection is still the only effective means of protection against HIV disease. Awareness of the risk of infection and observance of protective measures are therefore of the utmost importance.
Among the greatest challenges in relation to HIV prevention is the need for effective educational campaigns and humanitarian assistance in developing countries.
Great hope is currently being placed in a newly developed HIV vaccine. This vaccine contains HIV genes and stimulates both cellular resistance and antibody response to the virus. Tests are being conducted to determine whether it is suitable for use in humans.
Measures to prevent infection:
- Use of condoms (safer sex)
- Use only one’s own or new injecting equipment (safer use)
- Use of disposable gloves whenever there is a risk of direct blood contact