Hepatitis B virus X protein decreases nephrin expression and induces podocyte apoptosis via activating STAT3.

The gene for hepatitis B virus X protein () comprises the smallest open reading frame in the HBV genome, and the protein product can activate various cell signaling pathways and regulate apoptosis, among other effects. However, in different cell types and under different external conditions, its mechanism of action differs. In the present study, the effect of HBx on the viability and apoptosis of mouse podocyte clone 5 (MPC5) cells was investigated.