Progress, evolving therapeutic/diagnostic approaches, and challenges in the management of hepatitis C virus

Rohan Janardhan Meshram1, Gunderao Hanumantrao Kathwate2, Rajesh Nivarti Gacche3

  • 1Bioinformatics Centre, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, MS, 411007, India.

Archives of Virology
|January 28, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection management is challenged by its chronic nature and viral diversity. This review explores novel therapeutic, prophylactic, and nanotechnology-based strategies to combat HCV and associated liver diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology and Virology
  • Immunology
  • Nanomedicine

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection poses a significant global health challenge, affecting over 170 million people worldwide.
  • Chronic HCV infection is linked to severe liver diseases, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
  • Current HCV treatments require refinement, necessitating the development of tailored therapeutic and prophylactic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an updated review of evolving therapeutic approaches and prophylactic measures for Hepatitis C virus (HCV) management.
  • To discuss established and experimental immune prophylactic strategies and vaccination developments against HCV.
  • To explore the application of nanotechnology in developing effective therapeutic interventions for HCV.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of established and experimental therapeutic approaches.
  • Analysis of immune prophylactic measures and vaccination strategies.
  • Exploration of nanotechnology applications in HCV treatment formulation.

Main Results:

  • The review synthesizes current knowledge on HCV pathophysiology and treatment limitations.
  • It highlights advancements in immune-based prophylaxis and vaccine development.
  • The potential of nanotechnology for novel HCV therapeutic delivery systems is discussed.

Conclusions:

  • There is a critical need for novel, efficient, and cost-effective diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for HCV.
  • Further research into immune prophylaxis, vaccination, and nanomedicine is crucial for effective HCV management.
  • Addressing limitations in current diagnostics and treatments will drive innovation in combating HCV infection and its sequelae.

Related Concept Videos

Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Pathophysiologic Assessment and Liver Function Test01:22

Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Pathophysiologic Assessment and Liver Function Test

In clinical practice, the direct measurement of hepatic blood flow to evaluate liver function presents significant challenges due to the intricate and specialized nature of the necessary techniques. Consequently, healthcare professionals often rely on empirical estimates derived from thorough patient examinations and liver function tests to gauge liver health. Among the tools at their disposal, the Child–Pugh and MELD scoring systems stand out for their ability to categorize and assess...
10
Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Drug Dosing and Hepatic Blood Flow01:26

Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Drug Dosing and Hepatic Blood Flow

Chronic liver disease significantly impacts drug metabolism due to alterations in hepatic blood flow and enzyme accessibility. This disruption affects the body's pharmacokinetics—the movement and processing of drugs within the system. Key enzymes crucial for metabolizing medications become less accessible, changing how drugs are processed and utilized. Furthermore, liver disease influences the synthesis of plasma proteins, such as albumin and globulins, which play critical roles in drug...
7
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care01:29

Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care

The management of chronic pancreatitis is multifaceted, involving a comprehensive approach that includes thorough assessment, diagnostic testing, and a variety of management strategies.
Assessment:
133
Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics01:29

Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics

Microorganisms play a fundamental role in vaccine development, gene therapy, and therapeutic production. Their biological properties are harnessed to advance medicine and public health. Beyond immunization, microorganisms contribute to gut health, antibiotic synthesis, and genetic disease treatment.Live Attenuated and Inactivated VaccinesLive attenuated vaccines, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, utilize weakened forms of pathogens to closely resemble natural infections.
450
Cystic Fibrosis: Management01:24

Cystic Fibrosis: Management

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disorder that predominantly affects individuals of Northern European descent, occurring at a rate of 1 in 3500. It is caused by a genetic mutation in a gene on chromosome 7, most commonly the ΔF508 mutation, that codes for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. This results in thicker mucus secretions and obstruction pathologies in multiple organs, including the lungs and sinuses.
Sinus disease and chronic...
235
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management01:28

Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management

Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
168