Biochem/physiol Actions

Hepatitis B virus core antigen (HBcAg) is a positive control for human HBV antibodies.In humans with chronic HBV (hepatitis B virus) infection, cytotoxic effects of blood T lymphocytes can be suppressed by incubating cells with antibodies against hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg). The antigen can also work as a T-cell independent antigen in athymic mice. However, it is an efficient immunogen, resulting in T-cell activation and increased anti-HBc levels. High cytoplasmic/membranous expression of HBcAg is associated with increased liver inflammation.

HBcAg core human is a capsid protein of hepatitis B virus (HBV). It acts as a viral factor for HBVclearance. HBcAg is implicated in viral replication.

General description

amino acids 1-183 of HBV core antigen.

Physical form

Solution in 50% glycerol, 7.5 mM phosphate buffer, pH 7.2, 75 mM NaCl.