Global strategies are required to cure and eliminate HBV infection

Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2016 Apr;13(4):239-48. doi: 10.1038/nrgastro.2016.7. Epub 2016 Feb 24.

Abstract

Chronic HBV infection results in >1 million deaths per year from cirrhosis and liver cancer. No known cure for chronic HBV exists, due in part to the continued presence of transcriptionally active DNA in the nucleus that is not directly targeted by current antiviral therapies. A coordinated approach is urgently needed to advance an HBV cure worldwide, such as those established in the HIV field. We propose the establishment of an International Coalition to Eliminate Hepatitis B Virus (ICE-HBV) to facilitate the formation of international working groups on HBV virology, immunology, innovative tools and clinical trials: to promote awareness and education as well as to drive changes in government policy and ensure funds are channelled to HBV cure research and drug development. With the ICE-HBV in place, it should be possible to enable a HBV cure within the next decade.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic / economics
  • Drug Discovery / economics
  • Drug Discovery / organization & administration
  • Global Health*
  • Health Policy
  • Health Promotion / economics
  • Health Promotion / organization & administration
  • Hepatitis B, Chronic / drug therapy*
  • Hepatitis B, Chronic / immunology
  • Hepatitis B, Chronic / prevention & control*
  • Hepatitis B, Chronic / virology
  • Humans
  • International Cooperation*
  • Research Support as Topic

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents