Open AccessHepatitis C virus: Promising discoveries and new treatments
Author(s) -
Juliana Cristina Santiago Bastos,
Marina Aiello Padilla,
Leonardo Cardia Caserta,
Noelle Miotto,
A.G. Vigani,
Clarice Weis Arns
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
world journal of gastroenterology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.427
H-Index - 155
eISSN - 2219-2840
pISSN - 1007-9327
DOI - 10.3748/wjg.v22.i28.6393
Subject(s) - viral quasispecies , hepatitis c virus , ribavirin , virus , population , medicine , virology , hepatitis c , liver disease , cirrhosis , disease , hepacivirus , interferon , antiviral therapy , genotype , immunology , biology , chronic hepatitis , genetics , gene , environmental health
Despite advances in therapy, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains an important global health issue. It is estimated that a significant part of the world population is chronically infected with the virus, and many of those affected may develop cirrhosis or liver cancer. The virus shows considerable variability, a characteristic that directly interferes with disease treatment. The response to treatment varies according to HCV genotype and subtype. The continuous generation of variants (quasispecies) allows the virus to escape control by antivirals. Historically, the combination of ribavirin and interferon therapy has represented the only treatment option for the disease. Currently, several new treatment options are emerging and are available to a large part of the affected population. In addition, the search for new substances with antiviral activity against HCV continues, promising future improvements in treatment. Researchers should consider the mutation capacity of the virus and the other variables that affect treatment success.