M.D., Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China, 1991
Ph.D., Hepatology Institute, Peking University. Beijing, China, 1997
Postdoctoral Fellow Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, 1998-2001
Appointment at the Baruch S. Blumberg Institute: Professor, Vice President of Drug Development
Other appointments:
Secretary, International Society of Antiviral Research (ISAR).
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Dr. Jinhong Chang’s research focuses on the discovery and development of antiviral therapeutics for chronic hepatitis B virus infection and emerging viral diseases. Her laboratory integrates virology, immunology, and translational medicine to identify novel viral and host targets and advance first-in-class antiviral candidates from discovery through preclinical transltion. Current efforts include the development of a first-in-class oral antiviral targeting the yellow fever virus NS4B protein, as well as new therapeutic approaches for hepatitis B virus and other medically important viral pathogens.
Dr. Chang leads the development of a first-in-class oral antiviral candidate for yellow fever virus (YFV) targeting the viral NS4B protein. Originating from an in-house drug discovery program, the candidate has advanced through lead optimization, mechanism-of-action studies, efficacy evaluation, and preclinical development. Mechanistic studies revealed that the lead compound binds directly to NS4B and disrupts the integrity of viral replication organelles, specialized membrane structures required for efficient viral RNA synthesis. This disruption rapidly suppresses viral replication and exposes viral replication intermediates to host innate immune sensing pathways, revealing a previously unrecognized role of NS4B in maintaining the integrity of viral replication organelles. The program is currently advancing through GLP toxicology, GMP manufacturing, and other IND-enabling activities in preparation for first-in-human clinical trials. This work aims to deliver the first targeted small-molecule antiviral therapy for yellow fever and establish a new therapeutic strategy for flaviviral diseases.