Complexation hydrogels for stabilization of peptidic HIV-1 virucides

Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1), the causative agent of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), is a critical health priority. Although many therapies have been developed to slow the progression of AIDS, there are still no treatments available that can prevent or completely remove the infection. Recently, a highly potent, peptide triazole (PT) class of HIV-1 entry inhibitors has been identified that holds great promise for preventing HIV transmission. The purpose of this work is to enhance the in vivo stability of peptide triazoles by encapsulation in a pH-responsive hydrogel, composed of poly(methacrylic acid-g-ethylene glycol). Hydrogel loading and release of PT compositions are studied, and the stability of encapsulated PTs in enzymatic solutions is investigated.