Dane particle
Last reviewed 03/2022
The complete hepatitis B virion is called the Dane particle. It is a DNA virus of the Hepadna family and consists of an outer envelope and core.
The core is formed in the hepatocyte nucleus. It contains:
- partially double stranded circular DNA - there is a single stranded gap which is repaired by the DNA polymerase
- DNA polymerase
- core antigen - HBcAg
- 'e' antigen - a protein sub-unit of the core - HbeAg
The outer envelope consists of protein, lipid and carbohydrate. It is made in the hepatocyte cytoplasm. The envelope contains the surface antigen, HbsAg.