Identifying factors regulating production and expression of HBV cccDNA and the minichromosome using in vitro and in vivo models of HBV replication

Abstract

Chronic Hepatitis B (CHB) affects more 250 million people globally, causing significant morbidity and mortality from associated sequelae. The etiological agent, hepatitis B virus (HBV) contributes to the majority of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases, resulting in nearly a million deaths annually. Carriage of the virus (HBsAg positivity) is associated with elevated risk of developing these liver complications, so while available nucleos(t)ide analogue (NUC/NA) therapy can effectively control viral replication, viral clearance to the point of ‘functional cure’ is required to significantly lower the risk. Moreover, development of a cure remains paramount as treatment is typical..