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Naturally occurring core-gene-defective hepatitis B viruses
1Department of Medicine SL35, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
The Journal of General Virology
|July 1, 1995
Summary
Core-gene-defective hepatitis B virus (HBV) deletions were found in 6.5% of chronic HBV patients. These stable genetic variations may contribute to the persistence of hepatitis B infection.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects millions globally.
- Understanding HBV genetic variations is crucial for managing chronic infection.
- Defective HBV genomes can impact viral replication and disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of core-gene-defective HBV in patients with chronic HBV infection.
- To characterize the nature and significance of these genetic deletions.
- To assess the stability and potential role of defective HBV in chronic infection.
Main Methods:
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used to screen sera from 263 chronic HBV patients.
- Direct sequencing was performed on selected samples to analyze the identified deletions.
- Follow-up samples were analyzed to assess the stability of the deletions over time.
Main Results:
- Seventeen (6.5%) patients exhibited smaller bands indicative of defective HBV DNA.
- Follow-up analysis showed persistence of deletions in most patients studied.
- Identified deletions included in-frame losses (codons 79-122) and frameshift mutations in the P gene.
Conclusions:
- Core-gene-defective HBV is present in a subset of chronic HBV infections.
- The observed deletions are stable and may persist throughout the course of infection.
- These genetic defects might play a role in the chronicity of hepatitis B virus infection.