Hepatitis B virus antigens (HBsAg, HBcAg, and Polymerase) (HBV antigens)

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigens, specifically the surface antigen (HBsAg), core antigen (HBcAg), and polymerase (Pol), are the structural and functional proteins targeted by the MVA-HBVac boost (also known as VTP-300) [1][2]. These antigens are essential for the HBV life cycle: HBsAg facilitates viral entry into host cells, HBcAg forms the nucleocapsid, and the polymerase manages viral genome replication [3][4]. In chronic HBV infection, the immune system often becomes exhausted or tolerant to these antigens, leading to viral persistence and potential progression to cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma [5][6]. The MVA-HBVac boost utilizes a Modified Vaccinia Ankara vector to deliver these antigens, serving as a potent stimulus to reinvigorate the host's T-cell and B-cell responses [1][7]. By targeting these specific viral components, the therapy aims to reduce viral load and achieve a functional cure for chronic hepatitis B [2][8].

Other names

HBsAgHBcAgHBV PolHepatitis B surface antigenHepatitis B core antigenHepatitis B polymeraseVTP-300 antigens

Induction of antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses and B-cell activation to eliminate HBV-infected cells and neutralize viral particles.