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[Discovery of the hepatitis C virus]
C Trépo1, A M Couroucé, L Noël
1Hôpital de l'Hôtel Dieu, service d'Hépatogastroentérologie, Lyon.
Presse Medicale (Paris, France : 1983)
|October 20, 1990
Summary
Hepatitis C virus (HCV), a frequent cause of non-A non-B hepatitis, was identified using molecular biology. Serological tests now aid in diagnosing HCV infection, which affects blood donors and high-risk groups.
Area of Science:
- Virology: Identification and characterization of Hepatitis C virus (HCV).
- Molecular Biology: Application of molecular techniques for viral genome sequencing.
- Immunology: Development and application of serological diagnostic tests for HCV.
Context:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common cause of non-A non-B (NANB) hepatitis.
- Previous attempts to identify the virus were unsuccessful for 15 years.
- HCV is an RNA virus, possibly related to flaviviruses.
Purpose:
- To describe the molecular identification and initial characterization of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV).
- To detail the development of diagnostic tools for HCV infection.
- To report on the prevalence and transmission of HCV in various populations.
Summary:
- HCV was identified through molecular biology, leading to genome sequencing before serological detection.
- A specific viral enzyme was used to develop ELISA tests for diagnosing HCV infection.
- Serological tests reveal HCV is responsible for 60-80% of post-transfusion hepatitis, with slow antibody development.
Impact:
- HCV testing is now compulsory in France for blood donors, with significant prevalence in high-risk groups.
- The discovery of HCV alongside interferon availability presents a public health opportunity for control programs.
- Future development of a preventive vaccine for HCV is anticipated.