Anti-Hepatitis B Virus Core Antigen antibody [10E11]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

The Hepatitis B Virus Core Antigen also known as HBV core antigen or Hep B core is an important component of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This antigen often referred to simply as 'core' forms the nucleocapsid of the virus. The HBV core antigen consists of a protein structure with a mass of approximately 21 kilodaltons. It is primarily expressed within the hepatocytes the liver cells where it plays a pivotal role in viral replication and assembly. The HBV core antigen is also referred to in studies as HBV protein or B core.

Biological function summary

The hepatitis B core antigen is integral for the assembly of the viral capsid which protects the viral genome during infection. It functions as part of a larger complex with other viral proteins including the pre-core and envelope proteins to facilitate viral lifecycle processes. This antigen allows for the encapsidation of viral RNA and serves as a scaffold for reverse transcription of the viral genome ensuring replication fidelity and successful infection spread.

Pathways

The hepatitis B core antigen is essential in the viral replication pathway and the HBV lifecycle pathway. It interacts closely with HBV polymerase during the packaging of viral genome into the capsid. These interactions are important for the transformation of RNA into DNA a critical step in viral maturation. The antigen is related to the HBx protein through these pathways; the HBx protein modulates viral replication and can influence the pathogenesis of the virus.

Associated diseases and disorders

The hepatitis B core antigen is strongly linked to chronic hepatitis B infection and liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The persistence of the core antigen in infected hepatocytes signifies ongoing viral replication which can lead to liver inflammation and damage. The interaction of the core antigen with immune system components such as anti-HBc antibodies assists in the diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression. It connects to the envelope proteins during the disease process which are important in immune system evasion and chronic infection establishment.