A new immune therapy targeting hepatitis B virus (HBV) has shown promise in an animal study. Researchers gave a treatment known as TG1050 to HBV-infected mice. They presented their findings at the 50th International Liver Congress in Vienna, Austria.

The two main facets of a hep B cure involve first eliminating the surface antigen of the virus, known as HBsAg (antigens prompt the body to produce antibodies); and when that antigen’s corresponding antibody becomesdetectable, a process known as HBsAg seroconversion.

Thirty percent of the mice experienced a decrease of the antigen as well as HBsAg seroconversion.

Previous studies have shown that TG1050 has the capacity to lead to an enduring immune response against hep B. These findings support a potential human trial of the immune therapy.

To read a press release on the study, click here.