Arbutus Biopharma develops RNAi‑based therapeutics, notably imdusiran, to silence HBV transcripts and lower viral antigens, combined with nucleos(t)ide analogues, pegylated interferon, and immune‑modulating agents. The multi‑mechanism "Suppress, Reduce, Boost" regimen aims to achieve a finite, functional cure for chronic hepatitis B, reducing the need for lifelong treatment.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects millions worldwide, yet existing therapies rarely achieve functional cure and often require lifelong treatment, leading to ongoing disease burden and risk of liver complications.
Solution
Arbutus Biopharma develops virology therapeutics that combine distinct mechanisms to target HBV at multiple stages. Its lead RNAi candidate, imdusiran, reduces circulating viral antigens, while companion antivirals suppress viral DNA replication and immunomodulators boost host immune responses. By delivering these agents together in finite regimens, the company aims to achieve durable functional cure without the need for indefinite therapy. Clinical programs evaluate imdusiran in combination with pegylated interferon, nucleos(t)ide analogues, and novel immunotherapies such as PD‑L1 inhibition and checkpoint blockade. The multi‑pronged “Suppress, Reduce, Boost” strategy is supported by deep drug‑development expertise and ongoing Phase 1‑2 trials.
Target Audience
Primary customers are pharmaceutical partners and healthcare providers seeking curative HBV therapies, as well as patients with chronic hepatitis B who require finite, effective treatment options.
Features
- RNAi therapeutic (subcutaneous) imdusiran that silences HBV transcripts, lowering HBsAg levels
- Combination regimens that pair imdusiran with nucleos(t)ide analogues, pegylated interferon‑α2a, and immune‑modulating agents (e.g., PD‑L1 inhibitor AB‑101, nivolumab, VTP‑300)
- Clinical trial designs targeting functional cure endpoints, including HBsAg loss and sustained viral suppression
- Multi‑mechanism “Suppress, Reduce, Boost” framework aligning antiviral, antigen‑reduction, and immune‑reawakening actions
- Subcutaneous administration enabling outpatient dosing and potential for finite treatment courses