The Hepatitis B Foundation (HBF) has become a world-class research organization with one of the largest concentrations of scientists working on the problem of hepatitis B. We recruit experienced scientists and train young students in our dedicated research institute – the Institute for Hepatitis and Virus Research – which we established to fulfill our research mission.

Drug Discovery – Our scientists use high-speed bio-informatics and high-throughput screening of our 100,000 chemical compound library to determine their potential impact on hepatitis B and liver cancer. It is what large pharmaceutical companies do, but is virtually unheard of for a nonprofit research foundation. Large companies have repeatedly shown this approach works. However, they are not applying it to hepatitis B or liver cancer in the unique way we do.

We have discovered a new family of compounds called “tetravirs” that show promise against hepatitis B. This year we hope to see how effective our drug really is, and if it can be developed to become truly beneficial.

Early Detection of Disease – Our scientists and collaborators have identified specific proteins, called “glycoproteins,” that may be present in the blood or urine of people who have liver disease. The presence of these “biomarkers” will allow physicians to diagnose hepatitis, fibrosis and liver cancer in their earliest stages, leading to earlier intervention, more effective treatment, and ultimately save lives.

The National Cancer Institute publicly recognized that three of the four most promising biomarkers for liver cancer come from our work, and they are currently sponsoring clinical trials to test the effectiveness in patients.

(Photo: Dr. Andy Cuconati, the HBF's distinguished Bruce Witte Scholar, is the senior scientist and project leader for our Drug Discovery Program)