A new method to target and eliminate hepatitis B virus DNA using CRISPR technology
Official title: A novel CRISPR/Cas12 system targeting HBV DNA for gene therapy
Funded at East Tennessee State University · NIH-11170264 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to use CRISPR technology to safely and effectively remove the hepatitis B virus from people who are infected, aiming to provide a better treatment option than what’s currently available.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Tennessee State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Johnson City, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $19,201 |
| NIH project number | 3R01AI177624-01A1S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11170264 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus and have not responded adequately to existing antiviral therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with hepatitis B virus or those who have acute infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel CRISPR/Cas12 system designed to specifically target and eliminate hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA from infected cells. The approach aims to overcome the limitations of current antiviral therapies that can only suppress the virus but not eradicate it from the host genome. By utilizing a single guide RNA, this method seeks to achieve complete viral inactivation, potentially offering a more effective treatment option for those with chronic HBV infections. The research will explore the safety and efficacy of this gene therapy in a controlled setting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a curative treatment for chronic hepatitis B infections, significantly improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with CRISPR/Cas12 technology in targeting viral DNA, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yao, Zhi Q. — East Tennessee State University
- Study coordinator: Yao, Zhi Q.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.