A unique monoclonal antibody for therapeutic use against chronic hepatitis B: not all antibodies are created equal

Even though current antiviral treatments based on pegylated interferon, or nucleos(t)ide analogues, in mono or combination therapies, have demonstrated clinical benefit to HBV-infected patients, chronic hepatitis B remains a difficult-to-cure disease. An absolute cure, defined as total elimination of HBV DNA, is currently not achievable, and a functional cure characterised by sustained virological response and HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) clearance off-treatment remains a challenge. Pegylated interferon treatment can lead to a sustained virological response and HBsAg clearance off-treatment in only 3–7% of patients,1 and it is too often associated with contraindications and adverse effects. Long-term treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogues is better tolerated, but the chance to achieve a sustained virological response and HBsAg loss remains low,2 and the drugs do not eradicate intrahepatic HBV DNA. The risk of disease progression and development of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronically HBV-infected patients is clearly associated with high levels...
Source: Gut - Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Tags: Commentary Source Type: research