Kupffer Cells Interact With Hepatitis B Surface Antigen In Vivo and In Vitro, Leading to Proinflammatory Cytokine Production and Natural Killer Cell Function

摘要

Background. Based on their localization, Kupffer cells (KCs) likely interact with hepatitis B virus (HBV). However, the role of KCs in inducing immunity toward HBV is poorly understood. Therefore, the interaction of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and KCs, and possible functional consequences, were assessed.