Current progress in research of Hepatitis B virus genotypes

Hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection is a global health problem.Eight genotypes of HBV are identified and most have specific geographic distribution.The impact of HBV genotypes on the natural course,clinical outcome,antiviral therapy of chronic HBV infection has been studied.Genotype A and C are associated with more severe liver injury compared with genotype B and D.HBV genotype A and B have better response to interferon(IFN)treatment compared with genotype D and C.Some studies demonstrated that HBV genotype may influence transmission ways of HBV.However,most clinical data came from Asia and provided findings in patients infected with genotypes B and C.Because of geographic distribution of HBV genotype,more international cooperative studies to further clarify HBV genotype should be performed.