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Pondé RADA, Amorim GDSP. Exchanges in the 'a' determinant of the hepatitis B virus surface antigen revisited. Virology 2024; 599:110184. [PMID: 39127000 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2024.110184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
The hepatitis B virus surface antigen's (HBsAg) 'a' determinant comprises a sequence of amino acid residues located in the major hydrophilic region of the S protein, whose exchanges are closely associated with compromising the antigenicity and immunogenicity of that antigen. The HBsAg is generally present in the bloodstream of individuals with acute or chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It is classically known as the HBV infection marker, and is therefore the first marker to be investigated in the laboratory in the clinical hypothesis of infection by this agent. One of the factors that compromises the HBsAg detection in the bloodstream by the assays adopted in serological screening in both clinical contexts is the loss of S protein antigenicity. This can occur due to mutations that emerge in the HBV genome regions that encode the S protein, especially for its immunodominant region - the 'a' determinant. These mutations can induce exchanges of amino acid residues in the S protein's primary structure, altering its tertiary structure and the antigenic conformation, which may not be recognized by anti-HBs antibodies, compromising the infection diagnosis. In addition, these exchanges can render ineffective the anti-HBs antibodies action acquired by vaccination, compromise the effectiveness of the chronically HBV infected patient's treatment, and also the HBsAg immunogenicity, by promoting its retention within the cell. In this review, the residues exchange that alter the S protein's structure is revisited, as well as the mechanisms that lead to the HBsAg antigenicity loss, and the clinical, laboratory and epidemiological consequences of this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robério Amorim de Almeida Pondé
- Secretaria de Estado da Saúde -SES/Superintendência de Vigilância Em Saúde-SUVISA/GO, Gerência de Vigilância Epidemiológica de Doenças Transmissíveis-GVEDT/Coordenação de Análises e Pesquisas-CAP, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil; Laboratory of Human Virology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
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Geremia N, Giovagnorio F, De Vito A, Martignago L, Fiore V, Rastrelli E, Madeddu G, Parisi SG, Starnini G, Panese S, Babudieri S. HBV in Italian Women's Jail: An Underestimated Problem? J Clin Med 2024; 13:1398. [PMID: 38592679 PMCID: PMC10932425 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is little information regarding the hepatitis B virus (HBV), vaccination status, and hepatitis B exposure in Italian women's jails. We aimed to describe the HBV exposure and HBs antibody (anti-HBs) protection levels in female prisoners. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective multicentric study was performed in Italian prisons from 2021 to 2023. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify risk factors for HBc antibody (anti-HBc) seropositivity and non-protective anti-HBs titer. RESULTS We included 156 patients. The median age was 41.0 (IQR 34.0-48.0). Of the studied subjects, 31 (19.9%) had anti-HBc positive titer. Two women were HBsAg positive. In the multivariate analysis, older age [OR 1.06 (CI 1.01-1.11), p = 0.011], North-Eastern European [OR 11.67 (3.29-41.30), p < 0.001] and African origin [OR 6.92 (CI 1.51-31.60), p = 0.013], and drug use [OR 6.55 (CI 1.96-21.9), p = 0.002] were risk factors for HBV exposure. Thirty-seven (32%) women had no history of HBV vaccination. Forty-four (38%) had an anti-HBs non-protective titer. In the multivariate analysis, North-Eastern European origin [OR 4.55 (CI 1.19-17.50), p = 0.027] was associated with unprotective anti-HBs titer. CONCLUSION Our results show both the low prevalence of HBV and protection in female prisoners. Age, North-Eastern European and African origin, and drug use have a role in exposure risk to HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Geremia
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine, Ospedale Dell'Angelo, 30174 Venice, Italy
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine, Ospedale Civile "S.S. Giovanni e Paolo", 30122 Venice, Italy
| | | | - Andrea De Vito
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
- School in Biomedical Science, Biomedical Science Department, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Luca Martignago
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy
| | - Vito Fiore
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Elena Rastrelli
- Medicina Protetta-Unit of Infectious Diseases, Belcolle Hospital, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Giordano Madeddu
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Starnini
- Medicina Protetta-Unit of Infectious Diseases, Belcolle Hospital, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Sandro Panese
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine, Ospedale Dell'Angelo, 30174 Venice, Italy
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine, Ospedale Civile "S.S. Giovanni e Paolo", 30122 Venice, Italy
| | - Sergio Babudieri
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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Osasona OG, Oguntoye OO, Arowosaye AO, Abdulkareem LO, Adewumi MO, Happi C, Folarin O. Patterns of hepatitis b virus immune escape and pol/rt mutations across clinical cohorts of patients with genotypes a, e and occult hepatitis b infection in Nigeria: A multi-centre study. Virulence 2023; 14:2218076. [PMID: 37262110 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2218076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) immune escape and Pol/RT mutations account for HBV immunoprophylactic, therapeutic, and diagnostic failure globally. Little is known about circulating HBV immune escape and Pol/RT mutants in Nigeria. This study focused on narrowing the knowledge gap of the pattern and prevalence of the HBV mutants across clinical cohorts of infected patients in southwestern Nigeria. Ninety-five enrollees were purposively recruited across clinical cohorts of HBV-infected patients with HBsAg or anti-HBc positive serological outcome and occult HBV infection. Total DNA was extracted from patients' sera. HBV S and Pol gene-specific nested PCR amplification was carried out. The amplicons were further sequenced for serotypic, genotypic, phylogenetic, and mutational analysis. HBV S and Pol genes were amplified in 60 (63.2%) and 19 (20%) of HBV isolates, respectively. All the sixty HBV S gene and 14 of 19 Pol gene sequences were exploitable. The ayw4 serotype was predominant (95%) while ayw1 serotype was identified in 5% of isolates. Genotype E predominates in 95% of sequences, while genotype A, sub-genotype A3 was observed in 5%. Prevalence of HBV IEMs in the "a" determinant region was 29%. Commonest HBV IEM was S113T followed by G145A and D144E. The Pol/RT mutations rtV214A and rtI163V among others were identified in this study. This study provided data on the occurrence of existing and new HBV IEMs and Pol gene mutations in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwadamilola G Osasona
- African Centre of Excellence for the Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Redeemers University, Ede, Nigeria
| | | | - Abiola O Arowosaye
- Department of Virology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Lukman O Abdulkareem
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Moses O Adewumi
- Department of Virology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Christian Happi
- African Centre of Excellence for the Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Redeemers University, Ede, Nigeria
| | - Onikepe Folarin
- African Centre of Excellence for the Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Redeemers University, Ede, Nigeria
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Jose-Abrego A, Roman S, Rebello Pinho JR, Gomes-Gouvêa MS, Panduro A. High Frequency of Antiviral Resistance Mutations in HBV Genotypes A2 and H: Multidrug Resistance Strains in Mexico. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:1023-1034. [PMID: 37577226 PMCID: PMC10412697 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00135s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Lamivudine (3TC), telbivudine (LdT), entecavir (ETV), adefovir (ADF), and tenofovir (TFV) are drugs used to treat hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, but specific mutations allow some viruses to become resistant to antiviral drugs or to acquire immune escape capacities. These mutations have not been thoroughly investigated in Mexico. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of HBV antiviral resistance and escape mutations. Methods This cross-sectional study analyzed 158 samples. HBV DNA was extracted, amplified, and sequenced in serum samples using the spin column method, PCR assay, and Sanger's sequencing, respectively. HBV genotypes were determined, and HBV mutations were tested using the Geno2pheno tool. Results Overall, 68.4% (108/158) of HBV patients were infected with genotype H, followed by G (11.4%, 18/158), A2 (10.8%, 17/158), F1b (6.9.0%, 11/158), D (1.9%, 3/158), and E (0.6%, 1/158), and 5.1% (8/158) had evidence of recombination. The prevalence of resistance mutations was 8.2% (13/158) and the most common combined mutation was rt180M+rt204V. Notably, we found the combinations rt180M+rt204V+rt173L (n=2) and rt180M+rt204V+rt202G (n=1) that confer multidrug resistance to 3TC, LdT, and ETV. Resistance mutations were found in genotypes A2 (11.8%, 2/17), and H (10.2%, 11/108), and escape mutations were detected in HBV genotypes A2 (11.8%, 2/17), H (10.2%, 11/108), F1b (9.1%, 1/11) and G (5.6%, 1/18). Conclusions The highest prevalence of antiviral resistance mutations or escape mutations was detected in HBV genotypes A2 and H. The earliest cases of HBV multidrug resistance were detected in Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Jose-Abrego
- Department of Genomic Medicine in Hepatology, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, “Fray Antonio Alcalde,” Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
- Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Sonia Roman
- Department of Genomic Medicine in Hepatology, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, “Fray Antonio Alcalde,” Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
- Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - João Renato Rebello Pinho
- LIM07, Department of Gastroenterology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Arturo Panduro
- Department of Genomic Medicine in Hepatology, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, “Fray Antonio Alcalde,” Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
- Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
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Sant'Anna TB, Araujo NM. Hepatitis B Virus Genotype D: An Overview of Molecular Epidemiology, Evolutionary History, and Clinical Characteristics. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1101. [PMID: 37317074 PMCID: PMC10221421 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype D (HBV/D) is the most extensively distributed genotype worldwide with distinct molecular and epidemiological features. This report provides an up-to-date review on the history of HBV/D subgenotyping and misclassifications, along with large-scale analysis of over 1000 HBV/D complete genome sequences, with the aim of gaining a thorough understanding of the global prevalence and geographic distribution of HBV/D subgenotypes. We have additionally explored recent paleogenomic findings, which facilitated the detection of HBV/D genomes dating back to the late Iron Age and provided new perspectives on the origins of modern HBV/D strains. Finally, reports on distinct disease outcomes and responses to antiviral therapy among HBV/D subgenotypes are discussed, further highlighting the complexity of this genotype and the importance of HBV subgenotyping in the management and treatment of hepatitis B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís B Sant'Anna
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Parasitology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, RJ, Brazil
| | - Natalia M Araujo
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Parasitology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, RJ, Brazil
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Castro GM, Sosa MJ, Sicilia PE, Riberi MI, Moreno C, Cattaneo R, Debes JD, Barbás MG, Cudolá AE, Pisano MB, Ré VE. Acute and chronic HBV infection in central Argentina: High frequency of sub-genotype F1b, low detection of clinically relevant mutations and first evidence of HDV. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 9:1057194. [PMID: 36698842 PMCID: PMC9868314 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1057194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Genomic analysis of hepatitis B virus (HBV) identifies phylogenetic variants, which may lead to distinct biological and clinical behaviors. The satellite hepatitis D virus (HDV) may also influence clinical outcomes in patients with hepatitis B. The aim of this study was to investigate HBV genetic variants, including clinically relevant mutations, and HDV infection in acute and chronic hepatitis B patients in central Argentina. Methods A total of 217 adult HBV infected patients [acute (AHB): n = 79; chronic (CHB): n = 138] were studied; 67 were HBV/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfected. Clinical and demographic data were obtained from medical records. Serological markers were determined. Molecular detection of HBV and HDV was carried out by RT-Nested PCR, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Results Overall, genotype (gt) F [sub-genotype (sgt) F1b] was the most frequently found. In AHB patients, the gts/sgts found were: F1b (74.7%) > A2 (13.9%) > F4 (7.6%) > C (2.5%) > A1 (1.3%). Among CHB patients: F1b (39.1%) > A2 (23.9%) > F4 (18.2%) > D (9.4%) > C and F6 (3.6% each) > A1, A3 and B2 (0.7% each). The distribution of sgt A2 and gt D was significantly different between HBV mono and HBV/HIV coinfected patients [A2: 15.9% vs. 35.7% (p < 0.05), respectively and D: 14.6% vs. 1.8% (p < 0.05), respectively]. Mutation frequency in basal core promoter/pre-Core (BCP/pC) region was 35.5% (77/217) [AHB: 20.3% (16/79), CHB: 44.2% (61/138)]. In the open reading frame (ORF) S, mutations associated with vaccine escape and diagnostic failure were detected in 7.8% of the sequences (17/217) [AHB: 3.8% (3/79), CHB: 10.1% (14/138)]. ORF-P amino acid substitutions associated with antiviral resistance were detected in 3.2% of the samples (7/217) [AHB: 1.3% (1/79), CHB 4.3%, (6/138)]. The anti-HDV seropositivity was 5.2% (4/77); one sample could be sequenced, belonging to gt HDV-1 associated with sgt HBV-D3. Discussion We detected an increase in the circulation of genotype F in Central Argentina, particularly among AHB patients, suggesting transmission advantages over the other genotypes. A low rate of mutations was detected, especially those with antiviral resistance implications, which is an encouraging result. The evidence of HDV circulation in our region, reported for the first time, alerts the health system for its search and diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo M. Castro
- Departamento Laboratorio Central, Ministerio de Salud de la Provincia de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina,*Correspondence: Gonzalo M. Castro,
| | - María J. Sosa
- Departamento Laboratorio Central, Ministerio de Salud de la Provincia de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Paola E. Sicilia
- Departamento Laboratorio Central, Ministerio de Salud de la Provincia de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - María I. Riberi
- Laboratorio de Virología, Servicio de Microbiología, Clínica Universitaria Reina Fabiola, Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Claudia Moreno
- Departamento Laboratorio Central, Ministerio de Salud de la Provincia de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo Cattaneo
- Servicio de Gastroenterología, Hospital Rawson, Ministerio de Salud de la Provincia de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - José D. Debes
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - María G. Barbás
- Departamento Laboratorio Central, Ministerio de Salud de la Provincia de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Analía E. Cudolá
- Departamento Laboratorio Central, Ministerio de Salud de la Provincia de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - María B. Pisano
- Laboratorio de Hepatitis Virales, Instituto de Virología “Dr. J. M. Vanella” (InViV)–CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Viviana E. Ré
- Laboratorio de Hepatitis Virales, Instituto de Virología “Dr. J. M. Vanella” (InViV)–CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
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Di Lello FA, Martínez AP, Flichman DM. Insights into induction of the immune response by the hepatitis B vaccine. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:4249-4262. [PMID: 36159002 PMCID: PMC9453777 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i31.4249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
After more than four decades of hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine implementation, its safety and efficacy in preventing HBV infection have been proven and several milestones have been achieved. Most countries have included HBV immunization schedules in their health policies and progress has been made regarding universalization of the first HBV vaccine dose at birth. All of these actions have significantly contributed to reducing both the incidence of HBV infection and its related complications. However, there are still many drawbacks to overcome. The main concerns are the deficient coverage rate of the dose at birth and the large adult population that has not been reached timely by universal immunization. Additionally, the current most widely used second-generation vaccines do not induce protective immunity in 5% to 10% of the population, particularly in people over 40-years-old, obese (body mass index > 25 kg/m2), heavy smokers, and patients undergoing dialysis or infection with human immunodeficiency virus. Recently developed and approved novel vaccine formulations using more potent adjuvants or multiple antigens have shown better performance, particularly in difficult settings. These advances re-launch the expectations of achieving the World Health Organization’s objective of completing hepatitis control by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Alejandro Di Lello
- Microbiology, Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica. Instituto de Investigaciones en Bacteriología y Virología Molecular, Buenos Aires C1113AAD, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires C1425FQB, Argentina
| | - Alfredo Pedro Martínez
- Virology Section, Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas Norberto Quirno “CEMIC”, Buenos Aires C1431FWO, Argentina
| | - Diego Martín Flichman
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires C1425FQB, Argentina
- Microbiology, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y Síndrome de Inmunodeficiencia Adquirida, Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
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Pisano MB, Giadans CG, Flichman DM, Ré VE, Preciado MV, Valva P. Viral hepatitis update: Progress and perspectives. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:4018-4044. [PMID: 34326611 PMCID: PMC8311538 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i26.4018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral hepatitis, secondary to infection with hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E viruses, are a major public health problem and an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite the huge medical advances achieved in recent years, there are still points of conflict concerning the pathogenesis, immune response, development of new and more effective vaccines, therapies, and treatment. This review focuses on the most important research topics that deal with issues that are currently being solved, those that remain to be solved, and future research directions. For hepatitis A virus we will address epidemiology, molecular surveillance, new susceptible populations as well as environmental and food detections. In the case of hepatitis B virus, we will discuss host factors related to disease, diagnosis, therapy, and vaccine improvement. On hepatitis C virus, we will focus on pathogenesis, immune response, direct action antivirals treatment in the context of solid organ transplantation, issues related to hepatocellular carcinoma development, direct action antivirals resistance due to selection of resistance-associated variants, and vaccination. Regarding hepatitis D virus, we describe diagnostic methodology, pathogenesis, and therapy. Finally, for hepatitis E virus, we will address epidemiology (including new emerging species), diagnosis, clinical aspects, treatment, the development of a vaccine, and environmental surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- María B Pisano
- Virology Institute, CONICET, School of Medical Sciences, National University of Córdoba, Cordoba X5016, Argentina
| | - Cecilia G Giadans
- Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP) CONICET-GCBA, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children’s Hospital, CABA C1425, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Diego M Flichman
- Institute of Biomedical Investigations in Retrovirus and AIDS (INBIRS), School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, CONICET, CABA C1121ABG, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Viviana E Ré
- Virology Institute, CONICET, School of Medical Sciences, National University of Córdoba, Cordoba X5016, Argentina
| | - María V Preciado
- Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP) CONICET-GCBA, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children’s Hospital, CABA C1425, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pamela Valva
- Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP) CONICET-GCBA, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children’s Hospital, CABA C1425, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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El-Mokhtar MA, Hetta HF, Mekky MA, Abd El-Kareem DM, Ramadan M, Salah M, Mohamed NA, El-Masry EA, Adel S, Sayed IM. Characterization of Antigen Escape Mutations in Chronic HBV-Infected Patients in Upper Egypt. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:2419-2427. [PMID: 34234472 PMCID: PMC8254413 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s315299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mutations within the “a” determinant region (position 124–147) that is present in the major hydrophilic region (MHR, position 99–160) of the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) are associated with vaccine-escape, lack of diagnosis, and failure to hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) therapy. Data regarding the amino acid changes of “a” determinant region of HBsAg are limited in Egypt. The prevalence and mutations in this region among chronic HBV (CHB)-infected patients in Upper Egypt are not known. Material and Methods Blood samples were collected from HBsAg-positive CHB-infected patients (n=123) admitted to Assiut University Hospitals. Serum samples were screened for HBsAg, HBeAg, anti-HBs and anti-HBe antibodies using commercially available ELISA kits. Viral load was determined by qPCR. In addition, mutational analysis was carried out targeting the HBV surface gene to determine the HBV genotype and vaccine escape mutations. Results Sequencing analysis of HBV DNA revealed that genotype D is the major circulating type (81.3%), followed by genotype E (18.7%). Analysis of the HBV genome revealed that 103/123 (83.7%) patients showed wild-type sequences and 20/123 (16.3%) showed mutations in the HBsAg gene. Mutation in seventeen patients (17/20, 85%) showed only one mutation, and three patients showed two mutations (3/20, 15%) in the “a” determinant region. The observed mutations were T115S (3/20, 15%), P120T/S (3/20, 15%), T126S (1/20, 5%), Q129R (2/20, 10%), M133T (2/20, 10%), S143L (5/20, 25%), D144E/A (3/20, 15%), and G145R/A (4/20, 20%). Mutations in the “a” determinant region were detected in genotype D isolates only. Conclusion We described for the first time the prevalence and characterization of vaccine escape mutants in CHB patients in Upper Egypt. Mutational analysis of the “a” determinant region revealed the presence of a wide spectrum of mutants in the circulating HBV isolates that could be a potential threat to HBV diagnosis, therapy success, and HBV vaccination program in Upper Egypt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A El-Mokhtar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71515, Egypt
| | - Helal F Hetta
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71515, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Mekky
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Doaa M Abd El-Kareem
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Ramadan
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy Al-Azhar University-Assiut branch, Assiut, 71526, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Salah
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy Port Said University, Port Said, 42526, Egypt
| | - Nahed A Mohamed
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Eman A El-Masry
- Microbiology and Immunology Unit, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Sara Adel
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, 71515, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim M Sayed
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71515, Egypt.,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
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Campos-Valdez M, Monroy-Ramírez HC, Armendáriz-Borunda J, Sánchez-Orozco LV. Molecular Mechanisms during Hepatitis B Infection and the Effects of the Virus Variability. Viruses 2021; 13:v13061167. [PMID: 34207116 PMCID: PMC8235420 DOI: 10.3390/v13061167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunopathogenesis and molecular mechanisms involved during a hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection have made the approaches for research complex, especially concerning the patients’ responses in the course of the early acute stage. The study of molecular bases involved in the viral clearance or persistence of the infection is complicated due to the difficulty to detect patients at the most adequate points of the disease, especially in the time lapse between the onset of the infection and the viral emergence. Despite this, there is valuable data obtained from animal and in vitro models, which have helped to clarify some aspects of the early immune response against HBV infection. The diversity of the HBV (genotypes and variants) has been proven to be associated not only with the development and outcome of the disease but also with the response to treatments. That is why factors involved in the virus evolution need to be considered while studying hepatitis B infection. This review brings together some of the published data to try to explain the immunological and molecular mechanisms involved in the different stages of the infection, clinical outcomes, viral persistence, and the impact of the variants of HBV in these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Campos-Valdez
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Instituto de Biología Molecular en Medicina, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, México; (M.C.-V.); (H.C.M.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
| | - Hugo C. Monroy-Ramírez
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Instituto de Biología Molecular en Medicina, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, México; (M.C.-V.); (H.C.M.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
| | - Juan Armendáriz-Borunda
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Instituto de Biología Molecular en Medicina, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, México; (M.C.-V.); (H.C.M.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
- Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Guadalajara, Zapopan 45201, Jalisco, México
| | - Laura V. Sánchez-Orozco
- Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Instituto de Biología Molecular en Medicina, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, México; (M.C.-V.); (H.C.M.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52-33-3954-5677
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Araujo NM, Teles SA, Spitz N. Comprehensive Analysis of Clinically Significant Hepatitis B Virus Mutations in Relation to Genotype, Subgenotype and Geographic Region. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:616023. [PMID: 33381105 PMCID: PMC7767914 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.616023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a highly variable DNA virus due to its unique life cycle, which involves an error-prone reverse transcriptase. The high substitution rate drives the evolution of HBV by generating genetic variants upon which selection operates. HBV mutants with clinical implications have been documented worldwide, indicating the potential for spreading and developing their own epidemiology. However, the prevalence of such mutants among the different HBV genotypes and subgenotypes has not been systematically analyzed. In the current study, we performed large-scale analysis of 6,479 full-length HBV genome sequences from genotypes A-H, with the aim of gaining comprehensive insights into the relationships of relevant mutations associated with immune escape, antiviral resistance and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development with HBV (sub)genotypes and geographic regions. Immune escape mutations were detected in 10.7% of the sequences, the most common being I/T126S (1.8%), G145R (1.2%), M133T (1.2%), and Q129R (1.0%). HBV genotype B showed the highest rate of escape mutations (14.7%) while genotype H had no mutations (P < 0.001). HCC-associated mutations were detected in 33.7% of the sequences, with significantly higher frequency of C1653T, T1753V and A1762T/G1764A in genotype G than C (P < 0.001). The overall frequencies of lamivudine-, telbivudine-, adefovir-, and entecavir-resistant mutants were 7.3, 7.2, 0.5, and 0.2%, respectively, while only 0.05% showed reduced susceptibility to tenofovir. In particular, the highest frequency of lamivudine-resistant mutations was observed in genotype G and the lowest frequency in genotype E (32.5 and 0.3%; P < 0.001). The prevalence of HBV mutants was also biased by geographic location, with North America identified as one of the regions with the highest rates of immune escape, antiviral resistance, and HCC-associated mutants. The collective findings were discussed in light of natural selection and the known characteristics of HBV (sub)genotypes. Our data provide relevant information on the prevalence of clinically relevant HBV mutations, which may contribute to further improvement of diagnostic procedures, immunization programs, therapeutic protocols, and disease prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia M Araujo
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sheila A Teles
- Faculty of Nursing, Federal University of Goias, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Natália Spitz
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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12
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Pujol F, Jaspe RC, Loureiro CL, Chemin I. Hepatitis B virus American genotypes: Pathogenic variants ? Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2020; 44:825-835. [PMID: 32553521 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2020.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) chronic infection is responsible for almost 900.000 deaths each year, due to cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ten HBV genotypes have been described (A-J). HBV genotype F and H circulate in America. HBV genotypes have been further classified in subgenotypes. There is a strong correlation between the genetic admixture of the American continent and the frequency of genotypes F or H: a high frequency of these genotypes is found in countries with a population with a higher ratio of Amerindian to African genetic admixture. The frequency of occult HBV infection in Amerindian communities from Latin America seems to be higher than the one found in other HBV-infected groups, but its association with American genotypes is unknown. There is growing evidence that some genotypes might be associated with a faster evolution to HCC. In particular, HBV genotype F has been implicated in a frequent and rapid progression to HCC. However, HBV genotype H has been associated to a less severe progression of disease. This study reviews the diversity and frequency of autochthonous HBV variants in the Americas and evaluates their association to severe progression of disease. Although no significant differences were found in the methylation pattern between different genotypes and subgenotypes of the American types, basal core promoter mutations might be more frequent in some subgenotypes, such as F1b and F2, than in other American subgenotypes or genotype H. F1b and probably F2 may be associated with a severe presentation of liver disease as opposed to a more benign course for subgenotype F4 and genotype H. Thus, preliminary evidence suggests that not all of the American variants are associated with a rapid progression to HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flor Pujol
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, CMBC, IVIC, Apdo 20632, Caracas 1020A, Venezuela.
| | - Rossana C Jaspe
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, CMBC, IVIC, Apdo 20632, Caracas 1020A, Venezuela
| | - Carmen L Loureiro
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, CMBC, IVIC, Apdo 20632, Caracas 1020A, Venezuela
| | - Isabelle Chemin
- INSERM U1052, CNRS 5286, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, centre Léon Bérard, centre de recherche en cancérologie de Lyon, 69000, Lyon, France
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Abstract
Enhancing host immunity by vaccination to prevent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains the most important strategy for global control of hepatitis B. Currently, 187 countries have in place infant hepatitis B vaccination programs. Hepatitis B surface antigen prevalence has decreased to less than 1% in children after successful implementation of universal HBV vaccination in newborns. The incidence of primary liver cancer in children, adolescents, and young adults has drastically decreased to near zero in birth cohorts receiving hepatitis B vaccination. Elimination of chronic hepatitis B by 2030 is not a mission impossible.
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14
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Bandopadhyay M, Bharadwaj M. Exosomal miRNAs in hepatitis B virus related liver disease: a new hope for biomarker. Gut Pathog 2020; 12:23. [PMID: 32346400 PMCID: PMC7183117 DOI: 10.1186/s13099-020-00353-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organisation, in its 2019 progress report on HIV, viral hepatitis and STDs indicates that 257 million people are afflicted with chronic HBV infections, of which, 1 million patients lose their lives every year due to HBV related chronic liver diseases including serious complications such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The course of HBV infection and associated liver injury depend on several host factors, genetic variability of the virus, and the host viral interplay. The challenge of medical science is the early diagnosis/identification of the potential for development of fatal complications like liver cirrhosis and HCC so that timely medical intervention can improve the chances of survival. Currently, neither the vaccination regime nor the diagnostic methods are completely effective as reflected in the high number of annual deaths. It is evident from numerous publications that microRNAs (miRNAs) are the critical regulators of gene expression and various cellular processes like proliferation, development, differentiation, apoptosis and tumorigenesis. Expressions of these diminutive RNAs are significantly affected in cancerous tissues as a result of numerous genomic and epigenetic modifications. Exosomes are membrane-derived vesicles (30–100 nm) secreted by normal as well as malignant cells, and are present in all body fluids. They are recognized as critical molecules in intercellular communication between cells through horizontal transfer of information via their cargo, which includes selective proteins, mRNAs and miRNAs. Exosomal miRNAs are transferred to recipient cells where they can regulate target gene expression. This provides an insight into the elementary biology of cancer progression and therefore the development of therapeutic approaches. This concise review outlines various on-going research on miRNA mediated regulation of HBV pathogenesis with special emphasis on association of exosomal miRNA in advanced stage liver disease like hepatocellular carcinoma. This review also discusses the possible use of exosomal miRNAs as biomarkers in the early detection of HCC and liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manikankana Bandopadhyay
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301 India
| | - Mausumi Bharadwaj
- Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301 India
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15
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Boeijen LL, Spaan M, Boonstra A. The effects of nucleoside/nucleotide analogues on host immune cells: the baseline for future immune therapy for HBV? Antivir Ther 2020; 25:181-191. [PMID: 32589166 DOI: 10.3851/imp3364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
HBV is a non-cytopathic virus and the progression of liver fibrosis is attributed to the host immune response. Complete suppression of viral replication using nucleotide or nucleoside analogues (NUCs) can prevent most complications related to chronic HBV infection. Unfortunately, antiviral treatment has to be administered lifelong to the majority of patients as HBV persists in the hepatocytes. However, although NUCs are very frequently administered in clinical practice, their effects on vital parts of the host immune response to HBV are not well established. In this review we summarize the currently available data gathered from longitudinal studies that investigated treatment-associated alterations of HBV-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells, regulatory T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells. These observations are important, as they can guide the design of studies that investigate the efficacy of new immune therapeutic agents. Novel experimental compounds will likely be added to ongoing NUC treatment, which leads to a functional cure in only a small minority of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauke L Boeijen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michelle Spaan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - André Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Quasispecies dynamics in disease prevention and control. VIRUS AS POPULATIONS 2020. [PMCID: PMC7153035 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-816331-3.00008-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Medical interventions to prevent and treat viral disease constitute evolutionary forces that may modify the genetic composition of viral populations that replicate in an infected host and influence the genomic composition of those viruses that are transmitted and progress at the epidemiological level. Given the adaptive potential of viruses in general and the RNA viruses in particular, the selection of viral mutants that display some degree of resistance to inhibitors or vaccines is a tangible challenge. Mutant selection may jeopardize control of the viral disease. Strategies intended to minimize vaccination and treatment failures are proposed and justified based on fundamental features of viral dynamics explained in the preceding chapters. The recommended use of complex, multiepitopic vaccines, and combination therapies as early as possible after initiation of infection falls under the general concept that complexity cannot be combated with simplicity. It also follows that sociopolitical action to interrupt virus replication and spread as soon as possible is as important as scientifically sound treatment designs to control viral disease on a global scale.
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Mehmankhah M, Bhat R, Anvar MS, Ali S, Alam A, Farooqui A, Amir F, Anwer A, Khan S, Azmi I, Ali R, Ishrat R, Hassan MI, Minuchehr Z, Kazim SN. Structure-Guided Approach to Identify Potential Inhibitors of Large Envelope Protein to Prevent Hepatitis B Virus Infection. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:1297484. [PMID: 31772697 PMCID: PMC6854180 DOI: 10.1155/2019/1297484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is one of the major causes of liver diseases, which can lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. The role of HBV envelope proteins is crucial in viral morphogenesis, infection, and propagation. Thus, blocking the pleiotropic functions of these proteins especially the PreS1 and PreS2 domains of the large surface protein (LHBs) is a promising strategy for designing efficient antivirals against HBV infection. Unfortunately, the structure of the LHBs protein has not been elucidated yet, and it seems that any structure-based drug discovery is critically dependent on this. To find effective inhibitors of LHBs, we have modeled and validated its three-dimensional structure and subsequently performed a virtual high-throughput screening against the ZINC database using RASPD and ParDOCK tools. We have identified four compounds, ZINC11882026, ZINC19741044, ZINC00653293, and ZINC15000762, showing appreciable binding affinity with the LHBs protein. The drug likeness was further validated using ADME screening and toxicity analysis. Interestingly, three of the four compounds showed the formation of hydrogen bonds with amino acid residues lying in the capsid binding region of the PreS1 domain of LHBs, suggesting the possibility of inhibiting the viral assembly and maturation process. The identification of potential lead molecules will help to discover more potent inhibitors with significant antiviral activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahboubeh Mehmankhah
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Ruchika Bhat
- Department of Chemistry & School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Mohammad Sabery Anvar
- Systems Biotechnology Department, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahnawaz Ali
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Aftab Alam
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Anam Farooqui
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Fatima Amir
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Ayesha Anwer
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Saniya Khan
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Iqbal Azmi
- Multidisciplinary Center for Advanced Research and Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Rafat Ali
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Romana Ishrat
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Md. Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Zarrin Minuchehr
- Systems Biotechnology Department, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Syed Naqui Kazim
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
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