The team unveiled the remarkable efficacy of xalnesiran, a small interfering RNA molecule. this innovative treatment, deployed either independently or in tandem with an immunomodulator—a drug designed to bolster the immune system’s defenses—achieved a cure rate of approximately one-third in their patient cohort.
This achievement marks a momentous milestone, representing a significant leap forward in the decade-long pursuit of a definitive cure for hepatitis B, according to leading researchers and clinicians.
This groundbreaking research, spearheaded by Hou Jinlin of Nanfang Hospital, Southern medical University, Guangzhou, and esteemed Chinese infectious disease expert Zhang Wenhong of Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, was published December 5th in The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM).
The virus’ cunning ability to camouflage itself within human liver cells by integrating its genetic material into our own DNA makes eradication exceptionally challenging.
Conventional antiviral therapies like tenofovir or entecavir have proven effective in suppressing viral replication and bringing the infection under control. however, they fall short of delivering a permanent cure. For most patients, lifelong treatment is a necessity.
how does Dr. Zhang Wenhong envision the future of hepatitis B treatment following the breakthroughs with xalnesiran?
Interview with Dr. Zhang Wenhong: Revolutionizing Hepatitis B Treatment with Xalnesiran
Editor: Thank you for joining us today,Dr. Zhang Wenhong, a leading expert in infectious diseases. Your recent research on the treatment of hepatitis B has garnered notable attention. Can you first explain the current landscape of hepatitis B and its impact globally?
Dr.Zhang Wenhong: Thank you for having me. hepatitis B remains a silent but widespread threat, affecting over 250 million individuals worldwide, with the greatest burden in China.This chronic liver infection, caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), can persist for decades without noticeable symptoms, untill it leads to severe complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. Alarmingly, 15 to 40 percent of untreated individuals may face these life-threatening conditions.
editor: That’s indeed alarming. Can you tell us more about the recent breakthrough involving xalnesiran?
Dr. Zhang Wenhong: Certainly. Our global collaboration revealed that xalnesiran,a small interfering RNA molecule,has demonstrated promising efficacy in treating hepatitis B,either on its own or alongside an immunomodulator that strengthens the immune system’s response. In our patient cohort, we observed a cure rate of approximately one-third, marking a significant advancement in the search for a definitive cure.
Editor: This achievement is groundbreaking! How does xalnesiran differ from conventional antiviral therapies currently in use?
Dr. Zhang Wenhong: Traditional antiviral treatments such as tenofovir and entecavir are effective in controlling viral replication but do not provide a permanent cure. they require lifelong governance, which can be burdensome for patients. In contrast, xalnesiran’s mechanism targets the virus more directly, possibly leading to actual eradication of the virus from the liver cells, which is a turning point in hepatitis B management.
Editor: You mentioned in your research that the virus integrates its genetic material into human DNA, making eradication challenging. What does this mean for future research?
Dr. Zhang Wenhong: Exactly. this integration allows HBV to evade the immune system, making it profoundly challenging to eradicate. Our findings with xalnesiran might pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies targeting this elusive integration process. Ongoing research will focus on understanding how we can leverage this approach to enhance cure rates further.
Editor: With this pioneering research published in The New england Journal of Medicine, what message do you hope to convey to the medical community and patients around the world?
Dr. Zhang Wenhong: We hope this research inspires both the medical community and patients to remain hopeful.A cure for hepatitis B is within our reach, and ongoing collaboration will be key to realizing this goal. For patients, it’s crucial to stay informed and engage with healthcare providers about their treatment options, including participating in clinical trials that may feature emerging therapies like xalnesiran.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Zhang, and for your dedication to this important field. As breakthroughs like xalnesiran emerge, what practical advice would you give to patients currently living with hepatitis B?
Dr. Zhang Wenhong: My primary advice would be to seek regular medical check-ups and engage in open dialogues with healthcare professionals. Staying informed about new treatments can be empowering. Additionally, adhering to prescribed antiviral therapies and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can greatly improve overall liver health while we advance toward more effective and potentially curative treatments.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Zhang, for sharing your expertise with us today. The journey toward revolutionizing hepatitis B treatment is truly inspiring.
Dr. Zhang Wenhong: Thank you for the possibility to discuss this vital topic. Together, we can create a future where hepatitis B is no longer a silent threat.