Episode 46 – Development of a Hepatitis C Cure with Dr Raymond Schinazi

In this episode of Going Anti-Viral, Dr Raymond Schinazi joins host Dr Michael Saag for an in-depth conversation about the development of a cure for hepatitis C. Dr Schinazi, the Frances Winship Walters Professor of Pediatrics and Director of the Laboratory of Biochemical Pharmacology at Emory University, shares insights from his distinguished career in antiviral research and development. He begins by outlining his background and long-standing interest in antiviral therapies, including groundbreaking work in HIV treatment. The conversation then shifts to his pivotal role in the development of sofosbuvir, a breakthrough direct-acting antiviral drug in the cure for hepatitis C, and the importance of NS5A inhibitors in antiviral drug regimens. Dr Schinazi also offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the business and regulatory journey of bringing a transformative therapy to market, reflecting on the personal impact of this milestone. The episode concludes with a discussion of his current research into potential treatments for hepatitis B.