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[Study on HBV preS/S gene mutation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells]
1Department of Molecular Virology, Shanghai Medical University, Shanghai 200032.
Summary
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA fragments, not full genomes, were found in patient immune cells (PBMCs). These mutations in preS genes may impact HBV infection, but replication in PBMCs is not supported.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Immunology
Context:
- Chronic hepatitis B is a significant global health concern.
- The role of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in HBV infection is not fully understood.
- HBV preS and S genes are crucial for viral entry and replication.
Purpose:
- To investigate the presence and significance of HBV preS and S gene mutations in PBMCs of chronic hepatitis B patients.
- To determine if HBV can replicate within PBMCs.
Summary:
- HBV preS and S gene fragments were detected in PBMCs of 19 chronic hepatitis B patients, with positive rates of 26.3% for preS1 and preS2.
- Sequence analysis revealed point mutations in the preS1 and preS2 genes within PBMCs.
- No full-length HBV genome was detected in PBMCs, suggesting limited or no viral replication in these cells.
Impact:
- The identified mutations in the preS region (aa21-47) may influence HBV adsorption, penetration, and tissue tropism.
- Further research is needed to explore the functional impact of HBV subgenomic fragments in PBMCs on cell function.
- Findings contribute to understanding HBV persistence and potential extrahepatic manifestations.