Hypoxia inducible factors regulate hepatitis B virus replication by activating the basal core promoter.

ABSTRACT:

Background & aims

Hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) are a hallmark of inflammation and are key regulators of hepatic immunity and metabolism, yet their role in HBV replication is poorly defined. HBV replicates in hepatocytes within the liver, a naturally hypoxic organ, however most studies of viral replication are performed under conditions of atmospheric oxygen, where HIFs are inactive. We therefore investigated the role of HIFs in regulating HBV replication.

Methods

Using cell culture, animal models, human tissue and pharmacological agents inhibiting the HIF-prolyl hydroxylases, we investigated the impact of hypoxia on the HBV life cycle.

Results

Culturing liver cell-based model systems under low oxygen uncovered a new role for HIFs in binding HBV DNA and activating

SUBMITTER: Wing PAC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8214165 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature