Interferon gene transfer by a hepatitis B virus vector efficiently suppresses wild-type virus infection

Hepatitis B viruses specifically target the liver, where they efficiently i nfect quiescent hepatocytes. Here we show that human and avian hepatitis B viruses can be converted into vectors for liver-directed gene transfer, The se vectors allow hepatocyte-specific expression of a green fluorescent prot ein in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, when used to transduce a type I interfe ron gene, expression of interferon efficiently suppresses wild-type virus r eplication in the duck model of hepatitis 14 virus infection. These data su ggest local cytokine production after hepatitis-B-virus-mediated gene trans fer as a promising concept for the treatment of acquired liver diseases, in cluding chronic hepatitis B.