A substance made from seaweed promises to be an important ally for women in preventing infection with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus, the precursor to AIDS). The product produced good results in tests using human cells, Luiz Roberto Castello Branco, coordinator of the project at Brazil's Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, told Tierramérica.

It will be tested in animals beginning in March, and the results of the pre-clinical tests will be ready by December, he said.

It has not yet been determined if it will be applied as a gel or a cream for vaginal use, but it would give women a new way to protect themselves.

“Many women become infected (with HIV) because their partners have unprotected sexual relations outside of the couple. With the vaginal application, she can take care of herself without her partner knowing. For the first time, the woman could have complete control of prevention,” said Castello Branco.