Image Gallery

The following images are available for download. Unless otherwise noted, please credit Microbicide Trials Network, University of Pittsburgh and Magee-Womens Research Institute. If you have questions about these images or would like additional caption information, please contact Lisa Rossi at rossil@upmc.edu [1] or Clare Collins at collcx@upmc.edu [2].

Microbicides

Different

formulations 1

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Different

formulations 2

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microbicide film

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study gel and

applicator

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Tenofovir tablet with gel image

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Microbicides can be formulated in different ways.

Research

Research 1

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Research 2

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Using a unique tissue explant model that very closely mimics how HIV infects cells of the cervix or rectum, MTN researchers are able to test different products for their safety and effectiveness.

Research 3

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Research 4

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Research 5

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MTN researchers perform studies that assess the stability of drug compounds in different formulations of microbicides.

Research 6

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MTN researchers look closely for any effects that microbicides may have on the normal population of vaginal microflora, studies that are important for assessing the safety of different products.

People

Ward Cates FHI Principal Investigator Download high res jpeg [14] Credit: Family Health International	Connie Celum Co-Principal Investigator Download high res jpeg [15] Credit: University of Washington	Charlene Dezzutti Principal Investigator Network Laboratory Download high res jpeg [16]
Sharon Hillier Principal Investigator Download high res jpeg [17]	Ben Masse Statistical Data and Monitoring Center PI Download high res jpeg [18] Credit: Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research & Prevention	Ian McGowan Co-principal investigator Download high res jpeg [19] Download high res jpeg [20] Credit: Adam Milliron

Graphics and Illustrations

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HIV infects T cells, one of several immune system cells, which have a specific molecule on its surface called a CD4 receptor. The receptor serves as a docking station where HIV sits before invading the cell. T cells are not found on the surface of the vagina, but below the epithelium, these and other target cells are found in abundance. How HIV reaches these cells is not certain. Perhaps HIV hitches a ride with dendritic cells that straddle the two layers, having conveniently been captured by these cells as an “invader” to be turned over to T cells and other immune cells that would otherwise orchestrate an attack. Or maybe the virus uses more direct routes through breaks in the tissue caused by local trauma and/or a sexually transmitted infection.