The Hepatitis C Virus: Your Part in its Downfall Getting to know the Virus and its Host

Malta medical journal

Edgar Pullicino¹ 

关键词: Hepatitis C;    quasispecies;    genotypes;    viraemia;    cirrhosis;    fibrosis;    transaminase;   

DOI  :  

学科分类：医学（综合）

来源: University of Malta * Medical School

【 摘 要 】

The cloning of the genome of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in 1989 provided sensitive screening tools and specific diagnostic assays which helped health workers to limit viral spread and scientists to design effective anti-viral agents. The uncorrected intrinsic error rate of HCV`s key replicating enzyme (RNAdependent RNA polymerase) leads to antigenically different`"quasispecies" which allow the virus to escape immune recognition by the host and leads to an ill-sustained clearance of virus by T lymphocytes. This article discusses the factors which may lead to progressive liver fibrosis and provides a theoretical framework for the selection of patients for viral eradication using pegylated preparations of recombinant interferon in conjunction with the oral antiviral ribavarine.

【 授权许可】

Unknown