Hepatitis B Polymerase (HBV polymerase)

Hepatitis B polymerase (HBV polymerase or P protein) is a multifunctional enzyme essential for the replication of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It catalyzes reverse transcription, converting viral pre-genomic RNA (pgRNA) into partially double-stranded DNA within newly formed capsids. The enzyme possesses domains including Terminal Protein (TP), Spacer, Reverse Transcriptase (RT), and RNase H. It is the primary target for current antiviral therapies against chronic hepatitis B infection, including Nucleos(t)ide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs).

Other names

HBV polymeraseHepatitis B virus polymeraseP protein

Nucleos(t)ide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs) block reverse transcription by acting as chain terminators or competitive inhibitors at active sites. Interferon enhances treatment efficacy by targeting different aspects of viral replication and immune response.