Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 26, 2026
11:34
A Competent Hepatocyte Model Examining Hepatitis B Virus Entry through Sodium Taurocholate Cotransporting Polypeptide as a Therapeutic Target
Published on: May 10, 2022
2.7K
Hepatitis B and C Viruses and Biologics
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
Skin Therapy Letter
|July 22, 2017
Summary
Patients with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) or Hepatitis C virus (HCV) require expert consultation before starting biological therapy. This ensures safe management of these common viral infections alongside immunosuppressive treatments.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) are prevalent global infections.
- These viral infections can complicate the management of patients requiring immunosuppressive therapies, including biological agents.
- Clinicians face challenges in balancing immunosuppression with chronic viral hepatitis management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical need for specialized consultation in patients with HBV or HCV undergoing biological therapy.
- To emphasize the potential risks associated with initiating immunosuppressive treatment in the context of viral hepatitis.
- To provide guidance on optimal patient management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on HBV and HCV management in patients receiving biological therapy.
- Analysis of clinical implications of immunosuppression in viral hepatitis.
- Synthesis of expert recommendations for patient referral.
Main Results:
- Patients with HBV and HCV are at increased risk when treated with biological therapies.
- Prior consultation with hepatologists or infectious disease specialists is crucial.
- Current literature supports a proactive approach to managing these patients.
Conclusions:
- Referral to a hepatologist or infectious disease expert is recommended before initiating biological therapy in patients with HBV or HCV.
- This multidisciplinary approach optimizes patient safety and treatment outcomes.
- Effective management requires careful consideration of viral status and immunosuppressive regimens.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Retrovirus Life Cycles
50.0K
Retroviruses have a single-stranded RNA genome that undergoes a special form of replication. Once the retrovirus has entered the host cell, an enzyme called reverse transcriptase synthesizes double-stranded DNA from the retroviral RNA genome. This DNA copy of the genome is then integrated into the host’s genome inside the nucleus via an enzyme called integrase. Consequently, the retroviral genome is transcribed into RNA whenever the host’s genome is transcribed, allowing the...
50.0K
01:28Drug Products: Biologics, Biosimilars and Interchangeables
309
Body:Biologics, derived from living sources such as humans, animals, or microorganisms, represent a significant category of pharmaceuticals. These complex molecules, developed through advanced biotechnological methods or purified from natural sources, include essential medical treatments like insulin and growth hormones. The complexity of biologics arises from their large molecular structures and the intricate processes required for their production, making them distinct from conventional...
309
01:29Viruses with RNA Genomes
1.1K
RNA viruses are categorized into positive-strand, negative-strand, or double-stranded groups based on their genomic structure and replication mechanisms. This classification dictates how they exploit host cellular machinery for protein synthesis and replication. Some RNA viruses also utilize reverse transcription as part of their life cycle, further diversifying their replication strategies.Positive-Strand RNA VirusesPositive-strand RNA viruses have genomes that function directly as messenger...
1.1K
01:26Pharmacokinetics: Drug–Food and Drug–Viral Interactions
358
A drug interaction occurs when the concurrent use of another drug, food, or an external substance alters the pharmacological activity of a drug. This interaction can modify the action of the original drug, affecting its effectiveness and safety.Drug–food interactions are significant as they impact drug absorption, metabolism, and excretion. For example, grapefruit juice is a well-known disruptor of drug metabolism. It inhibits the cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme, crucial for the metabolism of...
358
01:24Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Biologic Agents: Anti-TNF
646
Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF), a proinflammatory cytokine, contributes significantly to the inflammation seen in Crohn's disease. It exists as soluble TNF and membrane-bound TNF, with actions mediated through TNF receptors (TNFR). TNFR activation leads to the release of proinflammatory cytokines, T-cell activation, collagen production, and leukocyte migration, all contributing to inflammation in Crohn's disease. Anti-TNF monoclonal antibodies, namely infliximab (Remicade), adalimumab...
646
01:29Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics
1.2K
Microorganisms play a fundamental role in vaccine development, gene therapy, and therapeutic production. Their biological properties are harnessed to advance medicine and public health. Beyond immunization, microorganisms contribute to gut health, antibiotic synthesis, and genetic disease treatment.Live Attenuated and Inactivated VaccinesLive attenuated vaccines, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, utilize weakened forms of pathogens to closely resemble natural infections.
1.2K