The three-in-one (3io) method for total and cccDNA quantification in small-size samples from HBV infected patients

Aims: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a member of Hepadnaviridae family comprising viruses replicating via particular reverse transcription mechanism. The first step in HBV replication is filling the single stranded fragments of the viral genome into the completely double stranded form and formation of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). cccDNA exists in the liver as an independent episomal molecule serving as a long-lasting reservoir of the virus. It acts as a template for all genomes of viral progeny. It is an excellent though evasive parameter for monitoring the course of liver disease and treatment efficienc…