UoH researchers develop patented nanoformulation for STI prevention, inflammation and contraception

University of Hyderabad researchers have secured an Indian patent for a lactoferrin nanoparticle-based formulation combining curcumin with antiretroviral drugs. Laboratory and animal studies showed controlled drug release, sustained antiviral activity, lower systemic absorption and reduced tissue damage following vaginal administration, researchers said

Hyderabad: Researchers at the University of Hyderabad (UoH) have secured an Indian patent for an all-in-one nanotechnology formulation that could potentially help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), reduce inflammation and provide contraceptive action through a single product.

Granted on September 16, 2026, the patent covers methods and compositions based on lactoferrin nanoparticles loaded with curcumin in combination with antiretroviral drugs such as efavirenz, tenofovir or dapivirine.

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The lactoferrin particles serve as the carrier, while curcumin contributes anti-inflammatory and contraceptive action and the antiretroviral drugs act against viruses. The patented formulations are designed to bring antiviral and anti-inflammatory components together while incorporating the contraceptive potential of curcumin, the researchers said.

Laboratory and animal studies described in the patent provide encouraging evidence of the technology’s potential practical applicability. The nanoparticles demonstrated controlled, pH-dependent drug release, sustained antiviral activity, compatibility with Lactobacillus and increased local drug availability following vaginal administration, they said.

The nanoformulations also showed lower systemic drug absorption than corresponding soluble formulations and reduced tissue damage in the reported animal studies, they said.

The significance of the technology lies in its multipurpose prevention strategy. Instead of requiring separate approaches for infection prevention, inflammation and contraception, the locally administered platform could potentially address several needs simultaneously, the researchers said.