Identification of hepatitis B virus mutations in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

Background. Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most serious healthcare issues, particularly in the context of hepatitis B virus infection. Hepatitis B virus is associated with a high risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma, and there is evidence that certain mutations in the viral genome may increase this risk. However, studies conducted on the Russian population remain insufficient.

Objective. The aim of this study is to identify hepatitis B virus mutations that may be associated with an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in patients of the Russian population.

Materials and methods. The study included 7 male patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma secondary to hepatitis B and a control group of 30 participants. Viral genomes were determined using the latest generation sequencing panel HBV-seq. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson's χ² test.

Results. All viral genomes analyzed were genotype D, which is the most prevalent in Russia. Several mutations were identified in the hepatocellular carcinoma patient group that occurred significantly more frequently compared to the control group. These include: Core protein (C-protein): cT67N, cP130Q/L; Polymerase protein (P-protein): pT66S, pT239A, pS285A, pH289C/P, pL335H/I, pN388D, pL450M, pC667R/Y. Additionally, oncogenic mutations xK130M and xV131I were found in 3 out of 7 patients, cA80I/T in 2 out of 7, as well as single cases of mutations sP120T and sY134F.

Conclusion. The results of the present study demonstrate high genetic variability among patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Determining the significance of specific hepatitis B virus mutations and their associations with hepatocellular carcinoma development represents an important direction for further research in the field of medicine.

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