Inhibitory Effect of IL-1β on HBV and HDV Replication and HBs Antigen-Dependent Modulation of Its Secretion by Macrophages

Co-infection with the hepatitis B virus and hepatitis delta virus (HDV) leads to the most aggressive form of viral hepatitis. Using in vitro infection models, we confirmed that IL-1β, a crucial innate immune molecule for pathogen control, was very potent against HBV from different genotypes. Additionally, we demonstrated for the first time a strong and rapid antiviral effect induced by very low doses of IL-1β against HDV. In parallel, using co-culture assays, we demonstrated that monocytes exposed to HBV, and in particular to HBsAg, during differentiation into pro-inflammatory macrophages secreted less IL-1β. Altogether, our data emphasize the importance of developing combined antiviral strategies that would, for instance, reduce the secretion of HBsAg and stimulate the immune system to produce endogenous IL-1β efficient against both HBV and HDV.