New Zealand Clinical Research (NZCR) was proud to be represented on the global stage by Professor Ed Gane at the 34th Annual Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL 2025), held in Beijing from 26-30 March. As one of the most prestigious gatherings in hepatology, the conference attracted world-leading clinicians and researchers to share developments in liver disease research, treatment, and policy, focusing this year on “Multidisciplinary Collaboration For Elimination & Cure.”
As the Chief Medical Advisor to NZCR, Professor Gane delivered four presentations, cementing his position as a leading voice in the fight to eliminate chronic liver disease. Among these, a standout session focused on the critical contribution that New Zealand Clinical Research has made to the early-phase development of new therapies for chronic hepatitis B (CHB).
From Pre-clinical to Clinical: NZCR’s Role in Advancing CHB Therapies
In the talk titled “From Pre-clinical to Clinical: Phase 1 Studies in CHB,” Professor Gane explored how NZCR has played a pivotal role in the development pipeline for new hepatitis B medicines. He detailed the rigorous and highly specialised work involved in conducting early phase trials, an area where NZCR has become internationally recognised for its scientific expertise, quality, and consistency.
With over two decades of experience conducting early phase studies, NZCR’s contribution extends well beyond New Zealand’s borders. Professor Gane highlighted a number of international collaborations that have relied on NZCR’s clinical capabilities to move promising compounds from lab-based research into safe, ethically conducted human trials. In particular, he noted NZCR’s exceptional patient engagement, robust data quality, and commitment to advancing treatments for patients living with CHB, many of whom remain underserved by current therapeutic options.
Leading Conversations on Functional Cure and Novel Therapies
In another key presentation, Professor Gane addressed the future of hepatitis B treatment, speaking on novel therapeutic combinations and the road towards a functional cure. As a globally recognised expert in liver disease, his insights drew attention to the importance of integrating immune modulators with antivirals, and the role that early human data, such as that generated by NZCR, plays in informing global drug development strategies.
Further sessions included a discussion on “Translating Innovation into Clinical Practice,” where Professor Gane emphasised how clinical research centres like NZCR are instrumental in bridging the gap between discovery and real-world treatment. The presentation reinforced the notion that effective collaboration between academic researchers, pharmaceutical companies, and experienced research sites is essential for delivering breakthrough therapies to patients.
His final presentation involved a panel discussion on improving access to clinical trials for people living with viral hepatitis in the Asia-Pacific region. Here, Professor Gane highlighted NZCR’s model for inclusive trial design and community engagement, particularly among Māori and Pacific populations in Aotearoa New Zealand, something international delegates recognised as a best-practice approach.
A Testament to NZCR’s Leadership in Hepatology Research
Professor Gane’s presence at APASL 2025 served as a powerful reminder of NZCR’s status as a world-class clinical research organisation. With advanced facilities in both Auckland and Christchurch, NZCR has supported numerous global programmes in liver disease, oncology, metabolic conditions, and other therapeutic areas. The organisation remains at the forefront of phase 1 and 2 research, offering deep scientific expertise, highly trained investigators, and a culture of innovation that continues to attract leading sponsors worldwide.
As the APASL meeting wrapped up, it was clear that NZCR’s influence extends far beyond the walls of its clinics. With passionate advocates like Professor Ed Gane showcasing its impact on a global stage, NZCR remains firmly positioned as a leader in advancing the future of liver health, both here in New Zealand and across the Asia-Pacific region.
