FN enhances the replication and expression of HBV.

<p>HepG2.2.15 cells were transfected with pFN (A) or shFN (B) and then 48 h after transfection, the supernatants were collected and assayed for HBeAg and HBsAg by ELISA. HBV core-associated DNA production was analyzed by qPCR. An empty vector or an irrelevant shRNA was used as a control. (C) NC-KD or FN-KD cells were transfected with empty vector or pFN along with pHBV. At 48 h after transfection, the supernatants were collected and assayed for HBeAg and HBsAg by ELISA, and HBV core-associated DNA production was analyzed by qPCR. (D) Huh7 cells were transfected with indicated plasmids and 48 h later, FN expression was determined by western blot. NC-KD and FN-KD were serum starved for 24 h and then FN expression was determined by western blot. Huh7 cells were transfected with shNC, shFN or seed matched FN off-target shRNA (shOF) along with pHBV. At 48 h after transfection, HBV core-associated DNA production was analyzed by qPCR. Numbers below the blots are the quantified optical density; control blots were set as 100. All experiments were repeated at least three times with similar results. Data represent means ± SD, n = 3 (**p<0.01; *p<0.05).