NCIt definition : A family of hepatotropic DNA viruses which contains double-stranded DNA genomes and
causes hepatitis in humans and animals. Contains two genera: avihepadnavirus and orthohepadnavirus.;
NCIt note : The Hepadnavirus Family derives its name from its hepatotropic nature and double-stranded
DNA genome. The hepadnaviral genome is unique in that the plus strand is incomplete,
leaving 15-50% of the molecule single-stranded and the minus strand while being complete,
possesses a discontinuity at a unique site. The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the only
causative agent for a human disease within the family. (http://www.stanford.edu/group/virus/hepadna/2000/hepadnavirus.html);