Humans
and Viruses
Human Biology 115A
Winter, 2000
Robert Siegel, instructor
Hepatitis Delta Virus
In 1977, Dr. Mario Rizzetto discovered a new antigen in hepatocytes of patients
with chronic type B hepatitis. This antigen was part of the Hepatitis D virus
(HDV). This agent is a subviral “satellite virus” that requires Hepatitis
B virus as a helper virus to provide envelope proteins. HDV's unique double
rolling circle model replication process and unusual genome sequence
distinguish it from known animal viruses. HDV infection is associated with the
most severe cases of viral hepatitis and high incidence of cirrhosis in chronic
hepatitis.
Created: February 1, 2000
Last modified: February 6, 2000