Using engineered exosomes to target and eliminate HBV-infected cells
Official title: Engineered exosomes carrying synthetic gRNA/Cas9 targeting HBV-infected cells
Funded at East Tennessee State University · NIH-11075295 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with chronic hepatitis B by using specially designed tiny particles that can deliver tools to directly target and remove the virus from infected liver cells, aiming to provide a safer and more effective treatment 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 | April 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $344,043 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI177624-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075295 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B virus infection who have not responded adequately to existing antiviral therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HBV or those who have already achieved viral clearance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections by using engineered exosomes that carry synthetic gRNA and Cas9 proteins. These exosomes are designed to specifically target and edit the genetic material of HBV-infected liver cells, potentially eliminating the virus from the body. The study aims to overcome the limitations of current antiviral treatments that cannot fully eradicate the virus. By utilizing a non-viral delivery system, the research seeks to minimize safety concerns associated with traditional gene-editing methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a curative treatment for patients with chronic HBV infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of CRISPR/Cas9 technology is gaining traction, this specific approach using engineered exosomes for HBV treatment is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
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.