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Updated: Oct 15, 2025
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A Protocol for Analyzing Hepatitis C Virus Replication
Published on: June 26, 2014
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The Hepatitis E Virus Open Reading Frame 2 Protein: Beyond Viral Capsid
Zhaobin Zhou1,2, Yinqian Xie3, Chunyan Wu1,2
1Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.
Frontiers in Microbiology
|October 25, 2021
Summary
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) ORF2 protein is more than a capsid component. This review details its roles in viral replication, immune response, and pathogenesis, aiding HEV infection control.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes global outbreaks of acute hepatitis.
- The HEV genome includes an ORF2, encoding the major viral capsid protein.
- Emerging evidence suggests HEV ORF2 protein has functions beyond capsid formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review recent advances in understanding HEV ORF2 protein functions.
- To explore HEV ORF2's roles in viral replication, pathogenesis, and host interactions.
- To highlight the potential of HEV ORF2 in vaccine development and infection control.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of research on HEV ORF2 protein functions.
- Analysis of studies investigating HEV ORF2's involvement in viral replication and pathogenesis.
- Examination of research on HEV ORF2's role in immune response and host tropism.
Main Results:
- HEV ORF2 protein is crucial for viral capsid assembly.
- HEV ORF2 protein regulates innate immune responses and cellular signaling pathways.
- HEV ORF2 protein influences host tropism and contributes to HEV pathogenesis as a secretory factor.
Conclusions:
- Understanding HEV ORF2 protein's diverse functions is key to developing effective HEV vaccines.
- Further research into HEV ORF2's roles can lead to improved strategies for controlling HEV infection.
- HEV ORF2 protein represents a promising target for therapeutic interventions against Hepatitis E.
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