Investigating how blocking a specific immune pathway can help treat chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Immunologic correlates of functional cure of HBV with immune checkpoint blockade
This study is looking at how the immune system fights chronic hepatitis B and whether blocking a certain part of the immune response can help boost the body's ability to control the virus, with the hope of finding new short-term treatments that could lead to a lasting cure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10828796 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the immune system in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections and how blocking a specific immune checkpoint can rejuvenate the body's immune response. The study aims to explore the effects of PD-1 blockade on HBV-specific T cells, which are crucial for controlling the virus. By examining the changes in immune responses and viral replication in patients, the research seeks to identify potential short-term therapies that could lead to a functional cure for chronic HBV.
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 therapies.
Not a fit: Patients who have cleared the hepatitis B virus or those with acute hepatitis B infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that effectively eliminate chronic hepatitis B virus infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with immune checkpoint blockade in cancer treatment, but its application in chronic viral infections like HBV is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lauer, Georg Michael — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Lauer, Georg Michael
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.