A Crash course in understanding Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)

These events will be of particular interest to those who may not have an advanced background in science, but are keen to discover more about the exciting research happening at the Crick.

This lecture will be with Philippa Matthews, Group Leader for the HBV elimination laboratory at the Crick.

Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver. Although it causes over a million deaths worldwide each year, most people don’t know much about it, and it has been neglected as a public health threat. The highest number of infections are in countries with low healthcare resources, so people living in poor countries are hardest hit. Ambitious global targets have been set for ‘elimination of hepatitis B’ by 2030. We are not on track to reach these goals, even though there are tools available - including an effective vaccine and medications.

To help advance progress and tackle unanswered questions, Philippa Matthews set up the HBV elimination laboratory at the Crick in 2021. Her group works in close partnership with medical and research teams worldwide, including in Kenya, Uganda and South Africa. Philippa is a Professor of Infectious Diseases at University College London and her role as a doctor involves providing care for people with hepatitis B - as well as other infections. Outside work, Philippa enjoys spending time with her family and creating art, and she loves swimming in the sea (on warm days!).

Host or Publisher The Francis Crick Institute