OBJECTIVETo identify the HBV genotype-specific tag sequence.

METHODSThe large S region sequences from 930 HBV genomes were aligned to identify the genotype-specific tag sequences. PCR was used to check the genotyping effect of these tags.

RESULTSTwo tag sequences, sequence between 149-169 and sequence between 461-483, were identified in the large S region. Using primers specific to these tag sequences, the genotype of HBV can be specifically identified.

CONCLUSIONThese tag sequences can be used for HBV genotyping.

Base Sequence ; DNA Primers ; Gene Library ; Genes, Viral ; Genotype ; Hepatitis B virus ; classification ; genetics ; Hepatitis B, Chronic ; virology ; Humans ; Molecular Sequence Data ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; methods ; Protein Precursors ; genetics ; Sequence Analysis, DNA