Lee said he envisions the research eventually leading to creation of a small vaginal suppository that a woman could use on a regular basis to provide ongoing protection. "It would be as discreet as can be," said Lee, adding that each dose could last a week or longer and could be inserted at any time, not just prior to exposure. He said he hopes to translate the technology to other viruses, such as the human papilloma virus, the herpes virus, or even the common cold or flu.

The researchers believe this is the first time such a method has been used to stymie a viral attack. Lee said genetically engineered bacteria have been used as vaccine delivery vehicles in the past, but were designed to stimulate a strong immune response and were not comprised of naturally colonizing bacteria. "What we are doing is very different," said Lee. "We are trying to get the bacteria to directly bind and neutralize the pathogens themselves."

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Contact: Mitzi Baker
mitzibaker@stanford.edu
650-725-2106
Stanford University Medical Center
8-Sep-2003