What Does WHV Stand For?

WHV stands for Woodchuck Hepatitis Virus

WHV, or Woodchuck Hepatitis Virus, is a viral pathogen that primarily infects woodchucks (Marmota monax), a species of groundhog. It is a member of the family Hepadnaviridae and shares similarities with human hepatitis viruses. WHV is significant in biomedical research as it serves as a model for studying hepatitis B virus infection and associated liver diseases in humans. Understanding WHV can provide insights into viral pathogenesis, immune response, and potential therapeutic approaches for hepatitis infections.