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A Cell Culture Model for Producing High Titer Hepatitis E Virus Stocks
Published on: June 26, 2020
Current status of hepatitis delta.
Margarita Papatheodoridi1, George V Papatheodoridis2
1University College of London, Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, Royal Free Campus, London, UK.
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection, a severe complication for chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) patients, is more prevalent globally than previously thought. Screening and novel treatments are crucial for managing this significant health issue.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection significantly worsens chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) disease, posing a major global health challenge.
- Recent data indicate a higher global prevalence of HDV than previously estimated.
- Mandatory screening for anti-HDV antibodies in all chronic HBV patients is now recommended.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current epidemiology of HDV infection.
- To discuss the diagnostic approaches for HDV.
- To summarize the available and emerging treatment options for HDV.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on HDV prevalence.
- Analysis of diagnostic methods for anti-HDV antibodies.
- Evaluation of current and investigational therapeutic strategies for HDV.
Main Results:
- HDV infection represents the most severe form of chronic viral hepatitis.
- Current treatment with pegylated interferon-alpha shows limited efficacy.
- Several novel host-targeting therapies are in phase 2 clinical trials, including pegylated interferon-lambda, bulevirtide, lonafarnib, and REP-2139.
Conclusions:
- HDV infection is a critical concern for chronic HBV patients due to its severity and increasing prevalence.
- Effective screening protocols are essential for identifying infected individuals.
- The development of novel therapeutic agents is crucial to improve treatment outcomes for HDV infection.
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