Use of silver nanoparticles in HIV treatment protocols: A research proposal

Abstract

Current emphasis on elimination of the HIV/AIDS epidemic challenges researchers to assess the efficacy of alternative treatment modalities. Previous studies have been conducted using different silver preparations such as silver nitrate (AgNO3) and silver oxide hydrosol (Ag4 04) to treat HIV/AIDS patients. These studies did not use nanoparticles and used small sample sizes. Nanoparticle preparations hold particular promise because of their ability to enhance surface coverage. The present investigation is designed to test the efficacy of silver nanoparticle preparations using a pretest- posttest methodology. This research proposal is intended to increase awareness of a complimentary approach to HIV treatment and to stimulate future silver nanoparticle research. © 2012 Frazer RA.