Advances on follicular helper T cells in patients with hepatitis B virus infection / 中华临床感染病杂志

ABSTRACT

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major global public health problem. Persistent HBV infection is prone to develop chronic hepatitis B (CHB), and CHB is closely related to the development of liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. High-affinity specific anti-HBs are essential for the control of HBV infection, while the antibody production is closely related to follicular helper T (Tfh) cells. Tfh cells can help B cells differentiate into plasma cells to produce specific antibodies to control virus infection. This article reviews the latest research progress of Tfh cells in HBV infection to provide information of new strategies for the prevention and treatment of HBV.