Hepatitis B virus messenger RNA (HBV mRNA) (HBV mRNA)

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) messenger RNA (mRNA) serves as the essential template for both the translation of viral proteins and the reverse transcription of the viral genome. Because all HBV transcripts are polyadenylated at a single common site, they share a common 3' terminal sequence, making this region an ideal therapeutic target. Highly conserved sequences within this 3' region, particularly those overlapping the X gene, are frequently targeted by sequence-specific nucleic acid therapies such as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). By binding to these conserved sequences, these drugs trigger the degradation of all viral RNA species, leading to a profound reduction in the production of viral antigens like HBsAg and the suppression of viral replication. This multi-pronged approach is designed to reduce the viral burden and suppress the immune-tolerizing effects of circulating antigens, potentially enabling the restoration of the host's immune response and achieving a functional cure for chronic hepatitis B infection.

Other names

HBV transcriptsHepatitis B virus RNAHBV pregenomic RNAHBV pgRNAHBV X-region mRNA

Drugs targeting this sequence typically utilize RNA interference (RNAi) via small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to induce the degradation of viral mRNA transcripts through the RISC complex or RNase H-mediated cleavage. By targeting a highly conserved sequence near the 3' end—a region common to all HBV transcripts due to their co-terminal nature—these therapies can simultaneously reduce the expression of all viral proteins, including HBsAg, HBeAg, and polymerase, as well as the pregenomic RNA required for replication.