Peptide hydrogels as a long-acting multipurpose drug delivery platform for combined contraception and HIV prevention

These aqueous solutions have the potential to be injected subcutaneously and rapidly self-assemble in response to phosphatases in the subcutaneous space, forming an in situ hydrogel depot that releases the drugs. This formulation is designed to improve patient compliance by reducing dosing frequency and has demonstrated good biostability and prolonged drug release in preclinical models. The use of D-amino acids and peptoids within the peptide-mimetic sequence significantly enhances its resistance to enzymatic degradation, addressing a major challenge in peptide-based drug delivery systems by extending the functional life of the hydrogel in biological environments.

Preliminary in vivo evaluations in Sprague-Dawley rats have demonstrated effective dual delivery of MIV-150 and etonogestrel over 49 to 56 days. Encouraging experimental results support the continued development of these peptide-mimetic hydrogel formulations as a scalable, multi-purpose prevention strategy. The development of this technology aims to enhance adherence among women in resource-limited regions through reduced dosing frequencies, directly impacting their health by reducing the rates of HIV transmission and unintended pregnancies.<br><br><i>Thesis embargoed until 31st July 2030</i>