Nanotechnology-Based Contraception

David Clapham of Boston Children's Hospital in the U.S. will develop and test a nanoparticle contraceptive that releases sperm tail inhibitors in response to vaginal pH changes or exposure to prostatic fluid. The nanoparticles could be incorporated into a vaginal gel to block sperm motility required for fertilization. This project's Phase I research culminated in the development of mesoporous silica nanoparticles that contain sperm inhibitors. In Phase II, Clapham will refine the efficacy and stability of the nanoparticles, conduct animal model tests, and collect data necessary to file for a new drug application.