Developing new treatments to inhibit hepatitis B virus DNA
High throughput screening and preclinical development of HBV cccDNA inhibitors
This study is looking for new ways to stop the hepatitis B virus from making a key part of its DNA, which could help create better treatments for people living with hepatitis B.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10995325 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to create a high throughput screening system to identify potential inhibitors of hepatitis B virus (HBV) covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), which is crucial for the virus's lifecycle. The project will utilize a specialized cell line that produces viral components in response to cccDNA, allowing researchers to screen various compounds for their ability to inhibit cccDNA formation. If successful, this approach could lead to the development of new therapies that effectively target and eliminate HBV cccDNA, addressing a significant gap in current hepatitis B treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B infection who are seeking new treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have hepatitis B or those with acute hepatitis B may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively eliminate hepatitis B virus from the body, potentially curing the infection.
How similar studies have performed: While targeting cccDNA is a novel approach, previous research has shown promise in developing antiviral therapies for hepatitis B, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Haitao — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Guo, Haitao
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.