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OwnerMichael J. Oldham, Bruce F. Rose +1inventors
InventorsMichael J. Oldham, Bruce F. Rose, Howard C. Krivan
Estimating the term…
In order to prevent conception and/or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) one or more lectins capable of binding sperm and/or the pathogenic microorganisms responsible for STD's are administered to the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. The lectins immobilize the sperm to render them incapable of fertilization and also bind to the microorganisms to render them non-pathogenic or to the cells to prevent infection by the microorganisms. Lectins can also be administered to treat sexually transmitted vaginal infections. The invention also encompasses a device for to be placed in the vault of the vagina which comprises a ring which surrounds the cervix and a membrane spanning the central aperture of the ring to prevent the direct contact of ejaculate with the cervical tissues. The device is impregnated or coated with lectins and releases them into the vaginal environment over a period of time.
A method of treating sexually transmitted infections comprising administering to the site of the infection an amount of a composition containing at least one lectin capable of binding to a pathogenic microorganism or to carbohydrate moieties expressed on the surface of epithelial cells at the site of the infection, said lectin being effective to diminish the infective capability of the microorganism, said lectin being dispersed in a biocompatible non-toxic vehicle.
A composition for administering lectins to the vagina comprising at least one lectin dispersed in a pharmacologically acceptable non-toxic vehicle.
A device for administering lectins to the vagina comprising a solid support adapted to be inserted into the vagina, said support being impregnated with or coated with at least one lectin.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.