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A Competent Hepatocyte Model Examining Hepatitis B Virus Entry through Sodium Taurocholate Cotransporting Polypeptide as a Therapeutic Target
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[Present and future of therapy against hepatitis C]

Rossana C Jaspe, Joseph Ortega, José L Zambrano

    Investigacion Clinica
    |July 8, 2016
    PubMed

    Insights

    Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 3% of the global population, with many developing chronic illness. Emerging host-targeted therapies offer new hope for effective HCV treatment and overcoming resistance.

    Area of Science:

    • Hepatology and Viral Immunology
    • Infectious Diseases and Virology

    Context:

    • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection impacts approximately 3% of the global population, frequently leading to chronic disease.
    • Current treatments, including interferon-alpha (IFN-α) and ribavirin, have limitations, with up to 50% of patients showing poor response.
    • The advent of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) drugs, such as ledipasvir plus sofosbuvir approved in 2014, has significantly improved treatment efficacy, offering a potential IFN- and ribavirin-free curative option.

    Purpose:

    • To review the current landscape of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment, highlighting the limitations of existing therapies and the emergence of new therapeutic strategies.
    • To explore the potential of host-targeted therapy as a novel approach for managing HCV infection.
    • To discuss the theoretical benefits of host-targeted therapy, including expanded treatment options and increased genetic barriers against viral resistance.

    Summary:

    • HCV infection is a significant global health concern, with a substantial portion of infected individuals developing chronic conditions.
    • While DAA therapies have revolutionized HCV treatment, high costs remain a barrier. Host-targeted therapy presents a promising alternative or complementary strategy.
    • Combining conventional treatments with host-targeted approaches may offer synergistic benefits, enhancing treatment outcomes and preventing the emergence of drug-resistant HCV variants.

    Impact:

    • Host-targeted therapy represents a paradigm shift in HCV management, potentially increasing treatment accessibility and effectiveness.
    • This approach could lead to the development of novel therapeutic regimens with improved efficacy and a higher genetic barrier to resistance.
    • The successful implementation of host-targeted therapies could significantly improve the long-term prognosis for patients with chronic HCV infection and contribute to disease eradication efforts.

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