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BIOMEDICINE The Population Council conducts fundamental research on reproductive and immunological processes, which serves as the basis for the development of new contraceptive methods, hormone therapies, and AIDS-prevention products. A primary activity is applied research, including the development of new methods of contraception to meet the needs of women and men. In addition, the Council is developing female-controlled microbicides, with and without contraceptive properties, for protection against HIV and possibly other sexually transmitted infections. The development of products with applications in the broader context of health is also on the Population Council's agenda. Population Council social science and public health researchers collaborate to conduct studies about the acceptability of proposed products. They monitor the introduction of contraceptives into the marketplace. And they conduct surveillance on product use after introduction. Biomedical researchers at the Population Council also conduct fundamental research on reproductive and immunological processes. This provides the knowledge base upon which applied research and successful product development are built. One major focus of this research program is the cellular and molecular mechanisms of male reproduction. Such knowledge supports the contraceptive development program and increases the prospects for developing safe and effective methods of fertility regulation and other reproductive health products. Research projects on the role of dendritic cells in immunodeficiency virus infection and the regulation of gonadal function by the pituitary are also currently underway. Finally, the Population Council contributes to the education and support of the next generation of reproductive scientists. The Council's postdoctoral fellowship program in reproductive biomedicine aims particularly to enhance the capacity of developing-country scientists to address reproductive health issues. The following pages provide more information on the Population Council's biomedical research: See Also
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