Researchers at the Johns Hopkins University and ReProtect LLC have developed a gel that may help both block the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and reduce unwanted pregnancies.

The compound, known as BufferGel, is currently in advanced clinical trials for its ability to prevent pregnancy. Trials of its ability to block HIV transmission are scheduled to be under way soon.

When applied vaginally prior to intercourse, BufferGel maintains vaginal acidity at its normal levels, which can kill both sperm and many germs.

To learn more about this research, watch a short video news release on BufferGel.

Watch the video in Real format.

(Real Networks offers a free version of their player, if your computer doesn't have it. Newer computers come bundled with this player, but those with older computers may need to download the player. If you have any trouble at all, please e-mail: [email protected])

Watch it using Windows Media Player.

Videotaped copies of the news release are also available on request. A press release on BufferGel is online at http://www.jhu.edu/news_info/news/home02/jan02/germs.html

Note: Professor Richard Cone is a part-owner of ReProtect LLC. His financial interests in this research are being managed by the Johns Hopkins University in accordance with its conflict-of- interest policies. The clinical trials are funded by the National Institutes of Health.