Polymorphisms of type I interferon receptor 1 promoter and their effects on chronic hepatitis B virus infection.

Background/aims: Exposure to HBV leads to a distinct clinical course which is partially pertained to host genetic variability. We aimed to study polymorphisms of type I interferon receptor 1 (IFNAR1) promoter and their potential effects on chronic HBV infection.

Methods: Polymorphisms of IFNAR1 promoter were identified in 320 chronic hepatitis B patients, 148 spontaneously recovered individuals, 148 healthy Chinese donors and 114 Caucasians.

Recombinant adeno-associated virus expressing the receptor-binding domain of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus S protein elicits neutralizing antibodies: Implication for developing SARS vaccines.

Development of an effective vaccine for severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) remains to be a priority to prevent possible re-emergence of SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV). We previously demonstrated that the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV S protein is a major target of neutralizing antibodies. This suggests that the RBD may serve as an ideal vaccine candidate.