Developing new therapies to eliminate chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Engineering exosomes for new gRNA/Cas therapeutics to eliminate HBV infection
['FUNDING_R21'] · EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11004677
This study is exploring a new way to help people with chronic hepatitis B by using special tiny particles to deliver a gene-editing tool that could completely get rid of the virus, offering hope for a cure instead of just managing the infection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (JOHNSON CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11004677 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative therapies using engineered exosomes to deliver CRISPR/Cas technology aimed at eliminating chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Current treatments can manage the virus but do not eradicate it, leaving patients at risk for long-term complications. By utilizing advanced gene-editing techniques, the study aims to specifically target and remove the viral DNA from infected cells, potentially leading to a complete cure. The approach emphasizes safety and efficacy by using non-viral delivery systems to minimize risks associated with traditional methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B virus infection who have not responded adequately to existing antiviral treatments.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with hepatitis B virus or those who have acute infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a groundbreaking cure for chronic hepatitis B virus infection, significantly improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of CRISPR/Cas technology is a relatively novel approach in this context, there have been successful applications of similar gene-editing strategies in other viral infections.
Where this research is happening
JOHNSON CITY, UNITED STATES
- EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY — JOHNSON CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YAO, ZHI Q. — EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: YAO, ZHI Q.
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 below.