Sequential combination of anti-PD-1 antibody and PEG-IFNα in chronic hepatitis B patients: correlates of HBsAg loss with enhanced T-cell responses.
Emerg Microbes InfectSep 25, 2026 (epub)
Hongmin Wang, Chao Zhang, Xiaoying Li et al.
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In 30 seconds
This pilot clinical trial investigated the sequential combination of anti-PD-1 antibody (sintilimab) and PEG-IFNα in ten virologically suppressed chronic hepatitis B patients. The study found that six patients achieved HBsAg loss, with three responding during anti-PD-1 treatment and three after PEG-IFNα was added. Notably, all six maintained HBsAg negativity 24 weeks post-treatment.
Key findings
- Six out of ten patients achieved HBsAg loss during the study.
- Three patients lost HBsAg during anti-PD-1 treatment, while three others did so after PEG-IFNα was added.
- All six patients maintained HBsAg negativity 24 weeks after treatment discontinuation.
- Increased HBV-specific IL-2 and IFN-γ responses were observed in patients with HBsAg loss.
Why it matters
The study highlights a potential immunotherapeutic strategy that may enhance HBsAg loss in chronic hepatitis B patients, addressing a significant challenge in achieving functional cures. Understanding T-cell responses could inform future treatment approaches.