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Entering the spotlight: hepatitis B surface antigen-specific B cells.
The Journal of Clinical Investigation
|September 18, 2018
Summary
Researchers identified Hepatitis B virus surface antigen-specific B cells, which are impaired in chronic Hepatitis B infection. These B cells are a new target for functional cure strategies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-specific T cells are key to viral clearance.
- B cells producing neutralizing antibodies against HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) are understudied due to technical challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect and characterize HBsAg-specific B cells ex vivo.
- To investigate the role and function of these B cells in HBV infection.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a novel technique for specific detection and characterization of HBsAg-specific B cells.
- Ex vivo analysis of B cell phenotype and function.
Main Results:
- HBsAg-specific B cells are present in HBV-infected individuals.
- These B cells exhibit phenotypic alterations and functional impairment in acute and chronic HBV infection.
Conclusions:
- HBsAg-specific B cells are a newly identified target for antiviral therapies.
- Targeting these B cells may offer a pathway toward a functional cure for chronic HBV infection.
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