Led by experts in virology, immunology, cancer biology, chemistry, and drug development, our five research teams work to better understand the pathobiology of hepatitis while also investigating other RNA viruses that cause it to develop more effective antiviral drugs and immune modulators. Faculty and research staff at Baruch S. Blumberg Institute are committed to the development of earlier diagnostics, precision treatments and ultimately cures for the hepatitis B virus, liver cancer and other related diseases.
Ju-Tao Guo, MD, program director
Jinhong Chang, MD, PhD
Andrea Cuconati, PhD
Ying-Hsiu Su, PhD
Liuidi Tang, PhD
Qiong Zhao, PhD
A deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms of viral replication and host innate and adaptive immune control of hepatitis B virus (HBV), flaviviruses such as Dengue, Yellow Fever, and Zika, and human coronaviruses is essential for discovering and developing novel antiviral drugs and immune modulators. Our current virology and immunology research projects include:
We also study the oncogenic processes underlying hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), aiming to identify biomarkers and therapeutic targets that can prevent or treat liver cancer.
Jinhong Chang, MD, PhD, program co-director
Yanming Du, PhD, program co-director
Jason Clement, PhD
Julianna Deakyne, PhD
Kristi Fan, PhD
Ju-Tao Guo, MD
Kayleigh McGovern-Gooch, PhD
Liudi Tang, PhD
Qiong Zhao, PhD
We focus on structure-guided discovery and lead optimization to design highly target-specific, small molecule agents with exceptional potency and selectivity. Our research spans from preclinical to clinical development, ensuring that promising candidates advance toward real-world therapeutic solutions.
Our efforts center on creating antiviral and immune-modulating compounds to combat chronic hepatitis B and address emerging threats from novel flaviviruses and coronaviruses. By integrating cutting-edge structural biology, medicinal chemistry, and mechanism of action research, we aim to deliver innovative treatments that improve global health outcomes.
Currently, a first-in-class yellow fever virus NS4B inhibitor is progressing from preclinical to phase I clinical development. A best-in-class HBV capsid assembly modulator and a first-in-class HAV replication inhibitor are in preclinical development. In addition, we are discovering HBV virion and subviral particle production inhibitors and innate immune modulators to facilitate the functional cure of chronic hepatitis B.
Ju-Tao Guo, MD, program director
Jinhong Chang, MD, PhD
Liudi Tang, PhD
Qiong Zhao, PhD
In collaboration with pharmaceutical companies and academic partners, BSBI is pioneering next-generation biopharmaceutical agents for chronic hepatitis B and liver cancer. Our research focuses on the development of RNA-trigger technology, as well as mRNA- and gene-editing-based therapeutics, designed to precisely target viral reservoirs and oncogenic pathways. These collaborative efforts are accelerating the path from discovery to clinical application, bringing hope to millions affected by chronic liver diseases worldwide.
Ying-Hsiu Su, PhD, program director
Timothy Block, PhD
Aejaz Sayeed, PhD
We are discovering and developing urine DNA and plasma cell-free RNA biomarkers for liver cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recurrence monitoring, while also providing bioinformatics support to all Blumberg Institute laboratories. The role of HBV DNA integration in the carcinogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is also currently under investigation.
Richard Pestell, PhD, president
Xuanmao Jiao, PhD
Zhiping Li, PhD
Chari A. Cohen DrPH, MPH
Catherine Freeland, PhD, MPH
Yasmin Ibrahim, MD, PhD, MBA
The Hepatitis B Foundation’s staff is engaged in a wide range of public health research under the direction of Chari A. Cohen, DrPH, MPH, president of the foundation. A widely published scholar, Dr. Cohen’s research interests include eliminating health disparities associated with hepatitis B, developing best practices for improving screening, vaccination and linkage to care rates to decrease morbidity and mortality associated with chronic hepatitis B infection.
Catherine Freeland, PhD, MPH, associate director of public health research, is collaborating with researchers employed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to study efforts aimed better preventing mother-child infection of hepatitis B.
Yasmin Ibrahim, MD, PhD, MBA, the foundation’s public health program director, conducts research on discrimination with patients worldwide and directs the three Community Advisory Boards (CABs) that are sponsored by the foundation.
Research publication by them with colleagues at the Hepatitis B Foundation and elsewhere are posted here.