Hepadnaviridae: Hepatitis B

Abstract Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the prototype member of the Hepadnaviridae, causing acute and chronic liver infections, which are responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. The chronic disease burden is currently estimated at 291 million, down on estimates from 2 to 3 decades ago as a result of effective immunization campaigns against the virus. Chronically infected individuals run the risk of developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in later life. Antiviral treatment with interferon or nucleos(t)ide analogs offers the only means of interrupting this process. This article reviews the current level of knowledge relating to this important human pathogen and provides the latest updates on the taxonomy, structure, life cycle, replication and molecular biology of the virus, as well as current preventative approaches and therapeutic interventions.