Insertion of foreign epitopes in HBcAg: how to make the chimeric particle assemble

Hepatitis B core antigen is one of the most promising protein carriers of f oreign epitopes of various human and animal pathogens. Chimeric HBcAg parti cles can be used as effective artificial immunogenes. Unfortunately, not al l chimeric proteins are able to be particulated. The dependence of correct or incorrect folding of chimeric proteins on physical and chemical properti es of inserts was studied with the help of ProAnalyst, SALIX and QSARPro co mputer programs. We have found that insertion of amino acids with high hydr ophobicity, large volume, and high beta-strand index prevent self-assemblin g chimeric proteins. These factors are most important for the C-termini of inserts. Recommendations for obtaining correct folding of chimeric HBcAg pa rticles have been given.