Mutational analysis and interactions of HBV preS1 with asialoglycoprotein receptor

Molecular characterization and phylogenetic analyses of full-length viral genomes from Iranian patients with chronic hepatitis B virus

Aim: Chronic hepatitis B infection is the main cause of liver complications such as hepatic failure, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we attempted to evaluate molecular characterization and phylogenetic analyses of full-length viral genomes from chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected patients. Methods: The full-length genomic sequence of the five HBV isolates from Ahvaz (city of Iran) patients was amplified, cloned in pTZ57R/T vector, sequenced and examined. Results: Phylogenetic analyses showed that all isolates belonged to genotype D (D1/D3). Serotyper tool identified ayw2 serotype in all HBV isolates. YMDE mutation was detected in an HBV isolate in the reverse transcriptase domain. Conclusion: In the present study, the analyses of full-length sequence of genome revealed that the HBV genotype D, sub-genotype D1/D3, and subtype ayw2 were predominant among Ahvaz HBV strains. As HBV genome replicates and is mediated via reverse transcription process, periodic investigations of full HBV genome are needed.

Asialoglycoprotein receptor expression in placenta of women with Hepatitis B Virus e Antigen (HBeAg) positive and negative

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the relationship between Asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGP-R) on the placenta and positivity of HBeAg in the mother's serum.

METHOD

We collected 52 placentas from delivered mothers who have HbsAg-positive serum. The HbsAg-positive serum was then examined for HBeAg-positive and HBeAg-negative. Immunohistochemistry staining was performed on block paraffin sections using monoclonal antibody of ASGP-R.

RESULTS

The expression of ASGP-R of 52 placenta samples demonstrated that 37 samples were scored I, five samples were score II, two samples were score III, and eight samples were score IV. We found that 14 of 52 serum samples were HBeAg-positive and 38 were HBeAg-negative.

CONCLUSION

There is a significant correlation between ASGP-R on the placenta and positivity of HBeAg in the mother's serum. The expression of the ASGP-R could increase the risk of HBV transmission. The result of this study could be used as a guideline for preventing and therapeutic approach of HBV from mother to child.