THERAPEUTIC, PROPHYLACTIC AND DIAGNOSTIC AGENTS FOR HEPATITIS B

摘要

The present invention provides regulation of expression of toll-like receptors by the hepatitis B (HBV) pre-core protein, or its extracellular expression product the hepatitis B E antigen (HbeAg). Compounds regulating such expression have use in the treatment and prophylaxis of HBV infection in animal. The invention also provides methods for diagnosing HBV and agents useful in diagnostic protocols. The present invention further contemplates methods for monitoring disease states in humans and other animal species, including animal models, and providing an indication of the subject for infection by HBV, or development of other diseased states.