Understanding how a virus affects chronic hepatitis in woodchucks
Official title: Exploring Hepatitis B Virus PreCore Gene Functions in Woodchucks
Funded at Georgetown University · NIH-11001237 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene from the hepatitis B virus works in woodchucks to understand why the virus can stick around in the body, which could help create better treatments for people with chronic hepatitis B.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgetown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | December 14, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $196,425 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI175472-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001237 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic hepatitis B or those at risk of developing chronic infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute hepatitis or those who do not have hepatitis B infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the functions of the PreCore gene of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) using woodchucks as a model. By studying the woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV), which is closely related to HBV, researchers aim to uncover mechanisms that allow the virus to persist in the body. The study will involve techniques such as liver transfection to explore how specific proteins derived from the PreCore gene influence chronic infection. This research could lead to the development of new antiviral treatments for chronic hepatitis B.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral therapies that improve treatment options for patients with chronic hepatitis B.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using animal models to study hepatitis viruses has shown promise, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgetown University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Menne, Stephan — Georgetown University
- Study coordinator: Menne, Stephan
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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.