Hepatitis viruses exploitation of host DNA methyltransferases functions

Clin Exp Med. 2016 Aug;16(3):265-72. doi: 10.1007/s10238-015-0372-3. Epub 2015 Jul 7.

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Delta (HDV) infections are a global health burden. With different routes of infection and biology, HBV, HCV and HDV are capable to induce liver cirrhosis and cancer by impinging on epigenetic mechanisms altering host cell's pathways. In the present manuscript, we reviewed the published studies taking into account the relationship between the hepatitis viruses and the DNA methyltransferases proteins.

Keywords: DNMTs; Epigenetics; Hepatitis viruses; Interferon.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • DNA Methylation*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Hepacivirus / pathogenicity*
  • Hepatitis B virus / pathogenicity*
  • Hepatitis Delta Virus / pathogenicity*
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions*
  • Humans
  • Methyltransferases / metabolism*

Substances

  • Methyltransferases