J-103 The International Coalition to Eliminate Hepatitis B (ICE-HBV)

Abstract

Background: Over 257 million people worldwide are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), resulting in over 880,000 deaths per year from cirrhosis and liver cancer. There is no known cure for chronic HBV, due in part to the continued presence of transcriptionally active DNA in the nucleus which is not directly targeted by current antiviral therapies. Our aim is to inspire and support the discovery of a safe, scalable and effective cure for the benefit of all people living with CHB. Methods: To achieve this, we have created an international research driven forum, the International Coalition to Eliminate Hepatitis B (ICE-HBV), which is coordinating collaborative partnerships among researchers and stakeholders to accelerate the search of an HBV cure. Results: ICE-HBV working groups have developed a joint global scientific strategy for HBV cure, with input from key stakeholders including the HBV affected community. Through engagement with key stakeholders, ICE-HBV aims to drive changes in governmental policy to ensure more funds are channelled to HBV cure research and drug development. ICE-HBV fosters new collaborations among HBV researchers and industry worldwide and initiate new projects to fast-track the discovery of an HBV cure. Conclusions: The push for a cure for chronic HBV infection is particularly timely thanks to the recent development of cell culture infection models that, for the first time, empower truly curative research. Through its global network, ICE-HBV is striving to promote effective collaboration and facilitate opportunities that can produce a cure for chronic HBV infection.