A transformed Vero cell line stably producing the hepatitis B virus surface antigen.

We have constructed plasmids in which transcription of the surface antigen gene of the human hepatitis B virus (HBsAg) is under the control of the SV40 early promoter. These plasmids have been used to analyze the expression of the HBsAg gene, both in mouse cells and in African green monkey kidney (Vero) cells. We have established a Vero cell line continuously expressing HBsAg that is indistinguishable from authentic 22 nm HBsAg particles. Post-transcriptional modification of HBsAg mRNA also appears to occur normally in the monkey cells. These cells might be useful as a source of antigen for the preparation of an antihepatitis vaccine.