Abstract: A method for detecting a predisposition to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using a unique panel of primers for identifying genetic alterations that are linked to HCC, as well as kits for carrying out the methods, are disclosed.

Abstract: An altered MHC class II determinant comprises .alpha..sub.1, .alpha..sub.2, .beta..sub.1, .beta..sub.2, domains of a mammalian MHC class II locus in which the domains are covalently linked to form a construct comprising the .beta..sub.2 -.alpha..sub.2 -.alpha..sub.1 .beta..sub.1 domains in sequence. The altered class II determinants can be associated with an antigen to elicit an immune response. In addition, the altered determinants may be used to prepare antibodies. The antibodies so produced have various diagnostic and therapeutic uses.

Abstract: Method for the production of antigens vaccinating against the virus of B viral hepatitis. It consists of transforming a cell culture with a vector, more particularly a plasmid, itself containing an insertion sequence including itself at least the part of the viral DNA coding for the immunogen protein, capable of inducing in vivo antibody production active with respect to the whole virus, as well as the viral promoter under the control of which the transcription and translation of the above-said part of viral DNA is normally carried out, in particular in a host infected with the corresponding virus.