Hepatocyte proliferation favours viral clearance in young children with chronic hepatitis B virus infection

Aim The aim of this study is to explore the correlation between hepatocyte proliferation and hepatitis B virus (HBV) clearance in young children with chronic HBV infection. Methods We collected liver biopsy samples and clinical data corresponding to paediatric patients with chronic HBV infection. Ki-67 expression in liver tissues was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. Results Eighteen patients were included and were divided into two groups based on different antiviral outcomes. Group I achieved hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss within 48 weeks. Group II did not develop seroconversion from hepatitis B e (HBe) antigen to anti-HBe after 48 weeks. There were 10 patients in Group I and 8 in Group II, respectively. Demographical data and baseline virological and biochemical characteristics in serum across Group I and Group II were not statistically different. Histologically, mean Ki-67 expression index in Group I was 15%, while the mean index in Group II was 5%. There was a significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.01). Conclusion High Ki-67 expression can contribute to viral clearance in young children with chronic HBV infection. This is the first confirmation of the association between hepatocyte proliferation and HBV clearance in vivo and has implications for novel therapeutic strategies against hepatitis B.