Prevention of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Breastmilk Transmission with Copper Oxide: Proof-of-Concept Study

Abstract

This study is proof of concept that copper oxide is efficacious against HIV-1 found in breastmilk and serves as the basis for further research aimed at determining the possible effects that copper may have on the nutritional and anti-infective properties of breastmilk. Furthermore, this supports the continuing study of the feasibility of developing a filtering device, such as an "at-the-breast" disposable shield that can be used discreetly and safely by HIV-1-infected mothers during breastfeeding.

Using Copper to Fight Microorganisms

“…Recently, the deactivation of HIV-1 and other viruses in suspension by copperbased filters has been reported [40,119]. Furthermore, the deactivation of HIV-1 in breastmilk obtained from HIV-1 infected women has been demonstrated [120].…”

Role of Divalent Cations in HIV-1 Replication and Pathogenicity

“…Moreover, extracellular copper/zinc SOD has anti-HIV-1 effects [298] and reduces neurotoxic effects of HIV-1 proteins [299,300] by controlling oxidative stress. Additionally, copper oxide contained in latex, polymeric materials, filter matrices and fibers has virucidal activity [301]; copper-coated filters neutralized HIV-1 virus particles [302,303] and copper oxide restricted HIV-1 transmission from breast milk [304].…”

Reducing infectivity of HIV upon exposure to surfaces coated with N,N‐dodecyl, methyl‐polyethylenimine

“…Recently proposed virus processing technologies aim to reduce infectious viral titers in human milk, in particular those of HIV (Borkow et al, 2008, 2011; Gerrard et al, 2012). Mother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT) of HIV in breastfeeding accounts for up to 40% (200,000) of infant infections of the disease, with 90% of these transmissions occurring in sub‐Saharan Africa (Chasela et al, 2010).…”

“…One possible method to reduce MTCT in breastfeeding would be to pass infected milk through a device which reduces the infectious viral load while maintaining the nutritional and immunological benefits that the breast milk delivers to the infant. Such a device could be incorporated into a baby bottle or a nipple shield delivery system (NSDS) worn by the mother during feeding (Borkow et al, 2008, 2011; Gerrard et al, 2012). Conventional nipple shields are thin silicone devices placed over the breast which are used to aid the breastfeeding process for mother and child.…”