[HBsAg trajectories and key thresholds toward functional cure of hepatitis B].

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a pivotal global health challenge. The pursuit of a functional cure for hepatitis B remains an ardent and intricate issue in clinical settings, as the current arsenal of nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) primarily achieves sustained suppression of HBV DNA but falls short in fully addressing clinical needs. The standalone use of Peg-interferon (PEG-IFN) or its combination with NAs still fails to satisfy the pressing clinical demands for functional cure. However, groundbreaking advancements in hepatitis B treatment have emerged through the research and development of antiviral agents with novel mechanisms, notably small nucleic acid drugs, which have ushered in a new era for functional cure prospects. Leveraging longitudinal data spanning multiple time points of HBsAg levels, we can now delineate the trajectory leading towards HBV functional cure and devise predictive models that refine clinical treatment protocols. Two pivotal thresholds of HBsAg levels emerge as crucial milestones, facilitating the selection of eligible participants for clinical trials. This refinement in screening enhances the personalized management of hepatitis B, tailoring interventions to individual patient needs and maximizing outcomes.