An international team of researchers has brought millions of vulnerable women closer to a potentially powerful weapon against HIV

Because most HIV⁠ (HIV: A virus that attacks cells of the immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases.) infections are transmitted across mucosal surfaces – the vagina⁠ (vagina: The internal passage leading from the opening of the vulva to the cervix of the uterus.) and the rectum⁠ (rectum: The internal passage between the anus and the colon; stores solid waste until it leaves the body through a bowel movement.) particularly – scientists have been concentrating on microbicidesexternal link, opens in a new tab to prevent transmission. The research has intensified in recent years because of promising theories like the one behind PSC-RANTES and the lack of a viable vaccine.