Anti-Hepatitis B Virus pre S2 Antigen antibody [S26]

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

Hepatitis B Virus pre S2 antigen also known simply as pre S2 is a component of the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). It plays a role in the viral life cycle and assists in the infection process of liver cells. The pre S2 antigen has a molecular mass of approximately 31 kDa. It is expressed on the surface of infected liver cells and virions where it facilitates the entry of the virus into the host cells.

Biological function summary

The pre S2 antigen is an integral part of the Hepatitis B viral structure participating in the initial attachment and penetration into hepatocytes. The pre S2 region of HBsAg is known for containing receptor-binding domains that interact with cellular surface molecules aiding in viral adherence and entry. These interactions are important for establishing infection making the pre S2 region a critical determinant in viral infectivity and host specificity.

Pathways

The pre S2 antigen plays a role in viral entry pathways involving liver-specific processes. During the Hepatitis B virus life cycle the pre S2 antigen interacts with the sodium taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) a transporter on hepatocytes which is essential for the virus's entry and subsequent replication within liver cells. This interaction highlights the importance of the antigen in the viral infection pathway and its involvement in the viral-host dynamics.

Associated diseases and disorders

The pre S2 antigen is directly linked to Hepatitis B infection a major cause of liver disease including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Chronic infection with Hepatitis B and the presence of pre S2 can lead to serious liver damage over time. During the progression of these diseases elevated expression of pre S2 antigen is observed further influencing disease severity. The antigen’s role in facilitating viral entry and replication makes it a target for therapeutic interventions aimed at alleviating Hepatitis B-related liver disorders.