Abstract
This article reviews the molecular biology of the hepatitis B virus in an effort to explain its natural history from a molecular perspective. The life cycle of the virus, with special attention to virus replication, polypeptide production, and morphogenesis, is described. The way in which these steps may influence the natural history of viral pathogenesis, as well as the effectiveness of interventions, receives special consideration.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use*
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DNA, Viral / genetics
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Hepatitis B Vaccines / therapeutic use*
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Hepatitis B virus / genetics
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Hepatitis B virus / growth & development
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Hepatitis B virus / physiology*
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Hepatitis B, Chronic / drug therapy
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Hepatitis B, Chronic / virology*
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Humans
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Viral Proteins / genetics
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Viral Proteins / immunology
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Virus Replication
Substances
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Antiviral Agents
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DNA, Viral
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Hepatitis B Vaccines
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Viral Proteins