HBx gene of hepatitis B virus induces liver cancer in transgenic mice

Article Abstract:

There is a good deal of evidence from epidemiological research that infection with hepatitis B virus is associated with liver cancer. However, there are few experimental findings showing that the virus is directly involved in the development of disease. A gene of the hepatitis B virus, known as HBx, regulates the expression of the other viral genes. Such genes, known as transactivators, use the machinery of the host (infected) cell for regulation. They can also affect the expression of host cells, which in turn would affect how the cell functions, including uncontrolled growth, as in the cancerous state. The HBx gene was given to mice at the embryonic stage. The liver cells of these mice were altered and diseased. Eventually the cells became cancerous, and spread to other areas. Male mice developed the disease and died much more quickly than female mice. This animal model can be used to study the role of the HBx gene of the hepatitis B virus in the development of liver cancer. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Usage, Development and progression, Genetically modified mice, Liver cancer

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Hepatitis B virus transactivator HBx uses a tumour promoter signalling pathway

Article Abstract:

Research suggests that the pleiotropy of the hepatitis B virus transactivator (HBx) results from activation of protein kinase C (PKC). The activation of PKC also leads to activation of the transcription factor AP-1 (Jun-Fos). The involvement of PKC and AP-1 in cellular signal transduction pathways may be what prepares the cell for replication of the hepatitis B genome. PKC activation also mediates cell transformation by tumor-promoting agents thus suggesting that similar pathways are involved in HBx oncogenesis.

Cellular signal transduction, Oncogenes

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Promiscuous liaisons

Article Abstract:

New research on the regulation of complex biological processes by members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily contradicts the belief in specific bindings between hormones and receptor homodimers. Instead, evidence shows that various hetero- and homodimers act as receptors for different hormones and with different affinities depending on the influence of transcription factors. This research has made the search for understandable connections in biological regulation even more complex.

Hormone receptors

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