British Lab Scraps Experimental Anti-AIDS Gel
An experimental gel designed to prevent men and women from being infected with the virus that causes AIDS has been dropped by the British biotechnology firm developing it.
An experimental gel designed to prevent men and women from being infected with the virus that causes AIDS has been dropped by the British biotechnology firm developing it.ML Laboratories Plc said on Thursday it was scrapping the project after scientists from Britain’s state-funded Medical Research Council decided not to include it in a late-stage Phase III clinical trial in Africa next year.Gels, or microbicides, are designed to be applied before sex and act like an invisible condom, offering added protection against the virus that has infected 38 million people worldwide.AIDS experts estimate even a partially effective microbicide could prevent 2.5 million deaths from AIDS over three years — but finding a product with the right properties is proving difficult.A number of other gels are still under development around the world.ML said that ending development of its Emmelle gel would be positive for the company’s financial outlook in the short term since it would result in a small reduction in research and development expenditure.ML shares were 7.5 percent firmer at 17-3/4 pence in afternoon trade. (Source; Reuters, Sept 2004)
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