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Updated: Jul 11, 2025

Using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-derived Hepatocyte-like Cells for Drug Discovery
Published on: May 19, 2018
Synthetic approaches and application of clinically approved small-molecule drugs to treat hepatitis
Zhen-Xi Niu1, Peng Nie2, Piet Herdewijn2
1Department of Pharmacy, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450018, China.
Abstract:
Hepatitis, a global public health concern, presents a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Particularly, hepatitis B and C are viral infections that can lead to severe liver damage, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The urgency to combat these diseases has driven researchers to explore existing small-molecule drugs as potential therapeutics. This comprehensive review provides a systematic overview of synthetic routes to key antiviral agents used to manage hepatitis. Furthermore, it elucidates the mechanisms of action of these drugs, shedding light on their interference with viral replication and liver disease progression. The review also discusses the clinical applications of these drugs, including their use in combination therapies and various patient populations. By evaluating the synthetic pathways and clinical utility of these drugs, this review not only consolidates current knowledge but also highlights potential future directions for research and drug development in the fight against hepatitis, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes and reduced global disease burden.
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