The Debes’ research team focuses in the development of liver cancer in individuals with viral hepatitis in global settings. The team works on 3 different pillars:
- Mechanisms of hepatitis-related liver cancer. Using technologies such as single cell hepatocyte sequencing and spatial genomics applied to liver tissue, the team aims to address the mechanisms of viral hepatocarcinogenesis that lead to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in individuals with viral hepatitis.
- Biomarkers for early detection of liver cancer. In collaboration with The South American Liver Research Network, founded and directed by Dr. Jose Debes, and ESCALON project (co-led by Dr. Debes), the team studies individuals at risk for HCC in Europe, South America and Africa addressing easy to implement biomarkers for the prediction of HCC.
- Awareness & education on risk factors for hepatitis B and liver cancer in resource-limited settings. Through The African Network for Hepatitis B Awareness and Education and strong collaborations in Tanzania and Ethiopia the team works on teaching healthcare workers across the continent about hepatitis B and liver cancer and implement survey- and app-mediated research to further understand general knowledge and increase awareness and prevention on both diseases.