IPM is dedicated to the research and development of promising new microbicide candidates and to moving these products into initial safety studies as soon as possible. With an estimated 14,000 new HIV infections each day, there is an urgent need to provide at-risk women with innovative, effective and self-initiated HIV-prevention strategies.

Coordinating Research Efforts for the Global Good

IPM’s research and development efforts focus on next- generation microbicides, working closely with both the public and private sectors to expand the pipeline of potential microbicide products by funding their research in whole or in part. Collaborators include pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies, non-profit organizations and academic institutions.

IPM also supports basic science research related to the field of microbicides so that new discoveries in HIV science can be applied to the identification and screening of promising drugs. Through a myriad of collaborative relationships, a special emphasis is placed on developing new drug delivery systems for microbicides including vaginal rings, controlled-release technologies and solid dosage forms.

Wherever possible, IPM uses existing facilities in its research and development efforts. When using existing infrastructure is not feasible or appropriate, new facilities are built to increase capacity. For example, in 2005 IPM built a manufacturing facility for microbicide formulations in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This clinical trials material facility is capable of manufacturing drug products for safety and expanded safety trials and will expedite the process of bringing drugs to trial.

To guide its research and development efforts, IPM has created a Scientific Advisory Board composed of international experts in the field of microbicides. This Board provides critical guidance on reviewing products and accelerating microbicide development. (View list of members.)