Biology of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) core and capsid assembly modulators (CAMs) for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) cure

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a hepadnavirus, small DNA that infects liver tissue, with some unusual replication steps share similarities to retroviruses. HBV infection can lead chronic hepatitis (CHB), life-long associated significant risks of disease, especially if untreated. global health problem, hundreds millions currently living CHB. Currently approved strategies prevent or inhibit are highly effective, however, cure for CHB has remained elusive. To achieve cure, elimination the functionally integrated covalently closed chromosomal (cccDNA) genome required. The capsid core an essential component replication, serving roles when establishing and in creating new virions. Over last two half decades, efforts have been made find characterize antivirals target capsid, specifically protein (Cp). interfere kinetics morphology termed assembly modulators (CAMs), extremely potent, clinical investigations indicate they well tolerated effective. Several CAMs offer potential by decreasing cccDNA pools. Here, we review biology focused on Cp, development inhibitors it.