Continuity Biosciences Receives $9.6 Million Grant for Innovative HIV Prevention Implant

$9.6 Million Grant to Revolutionize HIV Prevention

Continuity Biosciences, a clinical-stage biotechnology firm based in the USA, recently announced that it has been granted up to $9.6 million from the Gates Foundation. This funding is earmarked for the development of an ultra-long-acting subcutaneous implant aimed at delivering HIV prevention medications over an extended period. This innovative approach has the potential to significantly aid those at risk of HIV, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

The Challenge of Consistent HIV Prevention

In recent years, despite various advancements in HIV prevention, a staggering 1.2 million new infections were recorded in 2025 alone, as stated by UNAIDS. One of the primary issues facing individuals at risk is not the availability of effective drugs but maintaining consistent access and adherence to HIV prevention regimens.

Daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is known to be highly effective if taken as prescribed but often suffers from poor adherence due to the requirement of daily dosing. Long-acting injectables, while improving dosing intervals, still necessitate regular visits to healthcare facilities. These barriers are amplified in LMICs, where healthcare access can be severely limited.

A Solution in a Single Implant

The primary innovation behind Continuity's new implant lies in its nanofluidic drug delivery system. This advanced technology utilizes precisely engineered channels to ensure a steady release of the anti-retroviral (ARV) medication over multiple years following a single implantation. Instead of requiring daily pills or repetitive injections, this implant provides a more reliable method of HIV prevention, reducing the burden on users and healthcare providers alike.

Alessandro Grattoni, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Advisor of Continuity Biosciences, highlighted that, "By leveraging our nanofluidic implant technology, we aim to create a future where HIV prevention is not dictated by the need to remember pills or clinic appointments." This innovation promises to deliver a constant supply of ARVs, greatly enhancing the protective benefits against HIV for extended periods, which could represent a transformative shift in preventive healthcare.

Commitment to Global Access

As part of the grant's stipulations, Continuity has committed to ensuring global access, thereby making this groundbreaking technology available at an affordable cost to individuals in need within LMICs. The commitment also involves sharing knowledge and expertise acquired during the research and development stages, fostering an environment of collaboration in the healthcare community.

In addition to focusing on HIV prevention, Continuity is exploring the application of its drug delivery platforms to address other medical conditions like Type 1 diabetes, various endocrinological disorders, and even oncology treatments. The company is also currently conducting its first clinical study centered on an innovative iontophoretic oncology platform targeting pancreatic cancer.

Looking Forward

The development of this ultra-long-acting implant represents a significant step forward in enhancing the lives of individuals who are at high risk for HIV. As healthcare evolves, solutions that reduce the complexity and frequency of treatment while maintaining effectiveness are crucial.

Continuity Biosciences aims to push the boundaries of what's possible in medication adherence and patient care. If successful, this implant could greatly increase the number of people who successfully prevent HIV infections, marking a pivotal moment in global public health strategy.

For more information about Continuity Biosciences and their innovative approaches, visit Continuity Biosciences.