Full genome and phylogenetic analysis of hepatitis B virus genotype F in Mexican isolates.

Hepatitis B virus genotype F (HBV/F) is endemic in Central and South America with a minor proportion in Mexico and North America. HBV/F is divided into subgenotypes and subtypes with particular geographic circulation patterns. Here, we report the complete genome sequence and molecular characterization of HBV/F from three isolates. Phylogenetic analysis with all available HBV/F sequences showed that our sequences belonged to the F1b subtype and, in addition, the absence of the previously reported F1a subtype in Mexican isolates. Our findings suggest the circulation of HBV/F1b, the first phylogenomic study of HBV/F in Mexico.