5. Conclusions
HBV suppression, HCC
Our animal data demonstrated a synergistic effect between rmIFN-α and anti-PD1 treatment for HBV suppression or even clearance. This effect was observed in patients with HCC who received sequential combination therapy with ropeginterferon alfa-2b and nivolumab in a Phase I clinical study. Most AEs were either mild or moderate. Increased liver transaminase was common but not associated with increased bilirubin levels or clinical symptoms. No unexpected AEs were observed. The MTD of sequential combination therapy with ropeginterferon alfa-2b and nivolumab was determined. Further exploration and clinical development of combination therapy are required.