Sexual Health Research Hub
Research Portfolio
The Northern Contraception, Sexual Health & HIV Service provides sexual health services to over 10,000 patients and has developed international recognition for sexual health, HIV and genitourinary medicine (GUM) research.
We currently have a wide range of NIHR portfolio adopted commercial and non-commercial studies covering research across a variety of HIV and GUM conditions including:
- Gonorrhoea
- Syphilis
- PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
- New treatments and access to treatment for patients living with HIV
We also conduct research in Clinical Trials of Investigational Medicinal Products, Clinical Trials of Investigational Medicinal Devices as well as observation studies (questionnaires and surveys).
As part of our continuing growth in research, we are making important links with other research active departments, such as the Infectious Diseases Research Team at North Manchester General Hospital and the GP practices.
Locally, we have a team of research-active clinicians, health advisors, research nurses, a research lead, clinical trials coordinator and clinical trial assistant who work together to facilitate set up and delivery of research.
The Northern has successfully recruited to time and target in over 98% of our studies. We consistently set up and deliver on targets.
Portfolio
TransPRIDE
The TransPRIDE study aims to establish normal PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) levels in transgender women and non-binary people with a prostate. Knowing the normal PSA level in this population will help doctors to diagnose and treat prostate cancer more quickly.
This study will have the following direct benefits to the participants involved:
- Providing information to them on prostate health
- Facilitating a check on PSA level which may be reassuring or may facilitate early diagnosis of a prostate problem
- Improving participant engagement with healthcare and research
- Financial compensation in the form of a £25 electronic gift voucher code
- Blood tests for oestradiol, testosterone, FSH and LH which may be difficult for them to access depending on their current healthcare providers.
PURPOSE 5
PURPOSE 5 is a study comparing an investigational injection given twice a year with a daily oral pill for PrEP.
Participation is voluntary, and you can choose other HIV prevention options or not take PrEP at all. The goal is to understand how these approaches work when used consistently.
You, or someone you know, may be able to take part if you/they:
- You are at least 18 years of age
- You are currently not on PrEP
- You have not received a positive HIV test
- You are someone who could benefit from PrEP
Recruitment closed.
MK-053
The MK8591A-053 research study is testing an investigational medicine in people living with HIV-1 who have never taken any antiretroviral therapy (ART) to treat their HIV. Researchers will assess the safety and tolerability of the investigational medicine, see how well it slows the growth of the HIV virus, and how it works in the body compared to an approved 3-drug medicine. All participants in this study will have their health closely monitored by an experienced study team.
All trial medication and trial-related tests will be provided at no cost to you. You will be paid a stipend for each of your hospital clinic visits. Stipend payments are offered to compensate for the time; the inconvenience and potential loss of earnings associated with the trial visits.
You may be eligible to take part in this study if you are at least 18 years of age and:
- Are HIV-1 positive
- Have not taken any ART since your diagnosis of HIV
- Have not taken long-acting medications, such as cabotegravir or lenacapavir, to prevent HIV at any time
To learn more about the MK-053 Study, please click here:
CORAL
The CORAL study aims to gather real-world data on the uptake, acceptability, and effectiveness of injectable HIV treatment using cabotegravir and rilpivirine, administered every two months in NHS clinics. While clinical trials have shown this treatment to be safe, well-tolerated, and effective, real-world evidence is needed to understand how it works in routine care—particularly regarding treatment adherence and timely injections.
Participation is voluntary. If you choose to take part in the study, we will collect data from your medical records, including demographics, HIV history, blood results, and treatment details.Data will be updated every 6 months from routine clinic visits, covering medical history, test results, treatment, and any HIV-related symptoms or illnesses.
To learn more about the Coral-Light Study, please click here:
SPHERE
The Sphere trial is exploring how health and wellbeing coaching can impact on mental, physical, social and emotional health.
The trail is open to people over age of 18 who are living with HIV and attending this clinic.
If you’re eligible to join the trail, you’ll have a 50:50 chance of getting up to eight free health and wellbeing coaching sessions tailored to your needs.
To learn more about the Sphere Study, please click here:
STRIVE
STRIVE – Soluble T-cell Receptors In Viral Eradication
The STRIVE Study is looking at an investigational medication for people who have an HIV infection and are currently on an antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen for HIV. Participants will receive the study medication and study-related care and tests at no cost.
You will not be paid to take part in this study, but you may be reimbursed for your time, meals and reasonable travel costs during your study participation.
You, or someone you know, may be able to take part if you/they:
- are 18−65 years of age
- are living with HIV and are currently on ART
- have tested positive for a particular gene called HLA-A*02:01
To learn more about the STRIVE Study, please click here:
BEXGONO
Gonorrhoea cases are rising globally, and antibiotic resistance is a growing concern. In England, diagnoses have doubled in the past decade, with half occurring in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). The 4CMenB (Bexsero®) vaccine, originally developed for meningococcal disease, offers partial protection (30–40%) against gonorrhoea and has an excellent safety record.
This study will evaluate the new programme’s uptake, behavioural impact, and effectiveness by comparing vaccinated and unvaccinated GBMSM attending clinics across England.
To learn more about the BEXGONO Study, please click here:
TINIES
People living with Hepatitis B often need regular blood tests, which usually mean extra hospital visits—even when most care can be managed by phone.
Home blood tests like TDL TINIES could reduce unnecessary trips and make monitoring easier.
We want to know what you think about this new approach.
We are inviting adults (18 and over) living with Hepatitis B who attend the Mortimer Market Centre to help us test a new way of doing blood tests at home.
You will need to :
- Try a finger-prick home blood testing kit called TDL TINIES.
- Share your experience through a short questionnaire and an optional phone interview.
To learn more about the Tinies Study, please click here:
CASCADE
The CASCADE Study, aims to learn more about the health, experiences, and needs of people who have recently acquired HIV—defined as having an HIV-negative test within 12 months of a HIV-positive test or meeting other laboratory criteria. By understanding these experiences, we can improve HIV prevention and support services for the future.
Participation is voluntary. If you choose to take part, we will use relevant information from your clinic records, ensuring your data is kept safe, secure, and anonymous. Your decision will not affect your care, and you can withdraw at any time.
You, or someone you know, may be able to take part if you/they:
- You were diagnosed with HIV within the last 12 months of a negative HIV test, or
- You meet other laboratory criteria for recently acquired HIV
To learn more about the Cascade Study, please click here:
For participants acquiring HIV more than 12 months ago:
For participants acquiring HIV in the past 12 months:
TIME
This study focuses on the health and wellbeing of trans and other gender diverse people living with HIV in Europe, exploring their experiences with HIV treatment and related health conditions. By collecting questionnaire data on general health, sexual health, and life experiences, we aim to understand factors linked to HIV outcomes, transmission, and prevention strategies. The insights gained will help improve future care and treatment for trans and gender diverse people living with HIV. Participation involves a 45–60 minute questionnaire, usually scheduled during a routine clinic visit, and you can stop at any time.
Recruitment closed.
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(For researchers, health professionals and pharmaceutical companies)
The Northern Team
"Thank you so much, it was great working with the research team."
Gabe
Principal Investigator
Sally
Principal Investigator
Lisa
Clinical Research Manager
Stephanie
Clinical Trial Manager
