Hepatitis Be Antigen (HBeAg), Serum/Plasma

The precore protein of HBV contains the entire core protein plus a leader sequence that directs it to the endoplasmic reticulum, where it undergoes limited proteolysis. This leader sequence is then secreted into the plasma as hepatitis Be antigen (HBeAg). Its role in the viral life cycle is poorly understood, although it may have tolerogenic properties that would favour viral persistence and it appears to be able to modulate nucleocapsid stability, and therefore replication by forming heterodimers with the core protein. See Also Hepatitis Bs Antigen (HBsAg), Serum

HBeAg, along with HBsAg and HBc IgM, is detectable during the acute stage of infection. The detection of HBeAg indicates significant viral replication and a high probability of active liver disease. During convalescence, HBsAg and HBeAg are cleared, and, HBcAb, HBeAb, and HBsAb develop. HBeAg sero positivity is an important risk factor in vertical transmission. If a pregnant mother is HBsAg and HBeAg positive then, there is a 70 to 90% chance of having a baby with HBV infection. If the mother is HBsAg positive and HBeAg negative then, the risk drops to 5 to 20%.

1 ml Serum 1 ml K2, K3-EDTA, Na-Heparin, Sodium Citrate, or Potassium Oxalate Plasma Stability: 7 Days at 2-8 °C > 7 Days at -20 °C

Avoid grossly haemolysed samples.

Non-Reactive: < 1.00 S/CO Reactive: ≥ 1.00 S/CO