Digestive Diseases
Centre of Excellence

Liver Research Program

The Liver Research Program focuses on advancing knowledge and treatment outcomes for patients with chronic viral hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, autoimmune liver disease, and portal hypertension.

Prof Alex Thompson

Dr Jacinta Holmes

Dr Marno Ryan

Dr Jessica Howell

A/Prof Paul Desmond

Dr Catherine Croagh

Dr David Iser

Prof Kumar Visvanathan

Current Research Projects

The department is actively involved in multinational clinical trials focusing on new agents
for:

  • Hepatitis B
  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Hepatocellular carcinoma
  • Other liver diseases including primary biliary cholangitis
  • Primary sclerosing cholangitis
  • Portal hypertension

For more details, visit our Clinical Trials page.

  • The EPOCH study: Evaluation of point-of-care testing for HCV in collaboration
    with the Medically Supervised Injecting Room.
  • C No More study: A one-stop-shop for hepatitis C care in the community corrections
    population: The peer and nurse-led study.
  • STOP strategy in chronic hepatitis B: Determining sustained virological response
    post long-term nucleoside analogue therapy in chronic hepatitis B patients.
  • HOMER study: Studies on epidemiology, pathogenesis, and management of
    hepatocellular carcinoma.
  • Evaluation of host, viral, and tumor factors that predict natural history and
    treatment response in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
  • NAFLD studies: Studies on pathogenesis and management of non-alcoholic fatty
    liver disease, including medical and dietary interventions.
  • Novel methods for assessing portal hypertension: Development and evaluation of
    new methods.

Our program collaborates extensively with institutions and organisations to enhance research capabilities in liver disease management, including:

The Liver Research Program is focused on pioneering studies that drive advancements in liver disease diagnostics and treatment. Our research aims to improve patient care and shape the future of liver health. Stay tuned for updates on our latest publications and the impact of our research.

For research fellowship opportunities and collaborative projects, please contact Prof Alex Thompson, Dr Jacinta Holmes, Dr Marno Ryan, Dr Jessica Howell, A/Prof Paul Desmond, Dr Catherine Croagh, Dr David Iser, or Prof Kumar Visvanathan.

For any inquiries related to the Liver Research Program, please visit our general contact page. Our team will ensure your query is directed to the appropriate department.