Replication and detection of hepatitis C virus in liver-derived cell lines

A model of HCV replication has several potential important applications (Table 1). In addition to humans, the natural host for HCV, chimpanzees are the only other animals that have been shown to be permissive to HCV infection. However, the primate model for HCV infection presents several problems, namely, limited availability, cost, and different host response to HCV compared to humans. Table 1 Potential Applications of a Model of HCV Replication Study neutralizing antibodies Assist in vaccine development Study viral replicatton Provide molecular basis for the design of novel therapies Screen potential antiviral agents Classify virus (serotype/phenotype).