Interactions of hepatitis B virus with hepatocytes: mechanism and clinical relevance.

A receptor for hepatitis B virus (HBV) on hepatocytes has been postulated. There is increasing evidence that the binding of the virus to the target cell surface is mediated by epitopes of the pre-S proteins of the HBV envelope. In contrast to vaccination with HBsAg, passive immunization for the prevention of HBV infection is less effective. Using antibodies against the pre-S proteins, representing the putative attachment site for HBV binding to hepatocytes, a more efficient means of protection might be achieved.