Molecular genetic diversity of hepatitis B virus in Kenya

Intervirology. 2008;51(6):417-21. doi: 10.1159/000205526. Epub 2009 Mar 4.

Abstract

Eight genotypes of hepatitis B virus (A-H) and subgenotypes have been recognized worldwide. However, there is limited information on prevalent genotypes in many countries in Africa. This study was undertaken to determine the hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes in Kenya. Seropositive HBV blood samples from a blood donor setting were used in the study. HBV genotypes were determined in 52 nucleic acid-positive samples using specific primer in a nested PCR and sequencing employed in the HBV genotyping. This study shows presence of HBV variants with genotypes A (88%), E (8%) and D (4%). In conclusion, we found that HBV genotype A is the most predominant genotype in Kenya with both subgenotype A1 and A2 present. Genotype D and E are also present in our population. This demonstrates that there could be a high genetic diversity of HBV in Kenya.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • DNA, Viral / genetics*
  • Genetic Variation*
  • Genotype
  • Hepatitis B / virology*
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / genetics
  • Hepatitis B virus / classification
  • Hepatitis B virus / genetics*
  • Hepatitis B virus / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Kenya
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Phylogeny

Substances

  • DNA, Viral
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens

Associated data

  • GENBANK/DQ460641
  • GENBANK/DQ460642
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  • GENBANK/DQ460645
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