Hepatitis delta virus RNA (HDV RNA) (HDV RNA)

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) RNA is the single-stranded, circular, negative-sense RNA genome of the Hepatitis delta virus, the smallest known virus capable of infecting humans (Taylor, 2006, PubMed: 16735692). As a subviral satellite, HDV requires the presence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) to provide the surface antigens (HBsAg) necessary for its packaging and transmission (WHO, 2023). The HDV RNA genome is approximately 1.7 kilobases in length and possesses a unique ribozyme activity that facilitates its replication via a rolling-circle mechanism within the host cell nucleus (Ferré-D'Amaré et al., 1998, Nature: 395(6702):567-74). It serves as the template for the synthesis of the Hepatitis delta antigen (HDAg), which is the only protein produced by the virus and is critical for viral RNA accumulation and assembly. HDV infection causes the most severe form of viral hepatitis, often leading to rapid progression to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (WHO, 2023). Therapeutic interventions targeting HDV RNA include small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and antisense oligonucleotides designed to induce RNA degradation, as well as drugs like Bulevirtide that prevent viral entry and Lonafarnib that inhibits the prenylation of HDAg required for assembly (Wedemeyer et al., 2023, NEJM: 389(3):221-232; Yurdaydin et al., 2019, Lancet Infect Dis: 19(6):631-641). Monitoring HDV RNA levels in the blood is the primary method for diagnosing active infection and assessing the efficacy of antiviral treatments.

Other names

HDV genomeHepatitis D virus RNAHDV genomic RNAHDV antigenomic RNAHepatitis delta virus ribozyme

Inhibition of viral entry via NTCP blockade, inhibition of farnesyltransferase to prevent viral assembly, and direct degradation of viral RNA via RNA interference or antisense mechanisms.