Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) is a protein found on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It plays a crucial role in the virus’s ability to infect liver cells and is a key target for the immune response. The “adr” subtype refers to a specific antigenic determinant on the surface antigen, which is used to classify different strains of HBV. The recombinant form of HBsAg, produced in Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells, is used in various research and diagnostic applications.
HBV is a small, enveloped DNA virus belonging to the Hepadnaviridae family. It has a partially double-stranded circular DNA genome that encodes several proteins, including the surface antigen (HBsAg), core antigen (HBcAg), and e antigen (HBeAg). HBV infection can lead to acute and chronic liver diseases, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
HBsAg is the primary protein on the surface of HBV and is essential for the virus’s ability to infect liver cells. It is also the main target for the immune response against HBV. There are several subtypes of HBsAg, including adw, adr, ayw, and ayr, which are distinguished by specific antigenic determinants. The “adr” subtype is one of the most common and is used in various research and diagnostic applications.
Recombinant HBsAg is produced using genetic engineering techniques. The gene encoding HBsAg is inserted into CHO cells, which are then cultured to produce the protein. The recombinant protein is purified using chromatographic techniques to ensure high purity and quality. The molecular weight of recombinant HBsAg is approximately 23-27 kDa .
Recombinant HBsAg is used in various research and diagnostic applications, including: