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Intra-familial evidence of horizontal transmission of hepatitis B virus surface antigen mutant G145R
1Ransome Research Laboratory, Singapore General Hospital, Republic of Singapore.
Objectives:
To provide intra-familial evidence on the horizontal transmission of hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) mutant G145R.
Methods:
Serum samples from family members of 10 vaccinated infants who carried this G145R mutant were collected. The presence of the mutant was analysed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing.
Results:
The G145R mutant was identified in family members of three of the 10 infants. In family 1, the mutant found initially in child 1 was identified in another child and the father. In families 2 and 3, the G145R mutant detected previously in child 1 was detected in the father. Additional mutations in HBsAg were identified in at least two members in family 1 and 2, suggesting horizontal transmission of the mutant among them. The G145R mutant was found in samples with high levels of neutralizing antibody against HBV (anti-HBs). In addition, liver damage was seen in one G145R carrier infant.
Conclusions:
The G145R mutant could be transmitted horizontally among family members, and this could occur in the presence of high levels of anti-HBs. Improvement of detection system for the G145R and other HBsAg mutant will be needed for their effective control.
Insights
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg) G145R mutant can spread within families, even with high antibody levels. Improved detection is crucial for controlling this HBV mutant.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Hepatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg) mutations can impact vaccine efficacy and treatment.
- The G145R mutant is a specific HBsAg mutation of concern.
- Understanding transmission routes is vital for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the intra-familial horizontal transmission of the HBsAg G145R mutant.
- To determine if transmission occurs in the presence of anti-HBs (antibody against HBV).
Main Methods:
- Collected serum samples from family members of 10 vaccinated infants carrying the G145R mutant.
- Utilized polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing to detect the G145R mutant.
Main Results:
- The G145R mutant was detected in family members of 3 out of 10 infants.
- Horizontal transmission was suggested by the presence of the mutant in multiple family members, including parents and siblings.
- Mutant strains were found in individuals with high levels of anti-HBs.
- Liver damage was observed in one infant carrying the G145R mutant.
Conclusions:
- Horizontal transmission of the HBsAg G145R mutant within families is possible.
- Transmission can occur despite high levels of anti-HBs.
- Enhanced detection systems for HBsAg mutants are necessary for effective control strategies.