Large surface proteins of hepatitis B virus containing the pre-s sequence

J Virol. 1984 Nov;52(2):396-402. doi: 10.1128/JVI.52.2.396-402.1984.

Abstract

The sequence of hepatitis B virus DNA contains an open reading frame which codes for a not-yet-identified protein of at least 389 amino acids. Only the products starting at the third (GP33/GP36) or the fourth (P24/GP27) initiation signal have been characterized as components of the viral surface antigen. We found a larger protein, P39, and its glycosylated form, GP42, in hepatitis B virus particles and viral surface antigen filaments. Immunological cross-reactions showed that P39/GP42 is partially homologous to P24/GP27 and GP33/GP36. The unique portion of its sequence bound monoclonal antibodies which had been induced by immunization with hepatitis B virus particles. Proteolytic cleavage patterns and subtype-specific size differences suggested that the sequence of P39 starts with the first initiation signal of the open reading frame. Its amino-terminal part (pre-s coded) is exposed at the viral surface and, probably, is highly immunogenic. A model is presented of how the open reading frame for the viral envelope leads to defined amounts of three different proteins.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Base Sequence
  • DNA, Viral / genetics
  • Genes*
  • Genes, Viral*
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / genetics*
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / isolation & purification
  • Hepatitis B virus / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Molecular Weight
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • DNA, Viral
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
  • RNA, Messenger