Epigenetic Mechanisms Involved in Hcv Infection and Human HCC

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a major global health challenge and often progresses to chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Growing evidence indicates that epigenetic regulation mediated by non-coding RNAs plays a critical role in viral pathogenesis and tumor development. This review provides an integrated overview of the functions of microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) in HCV-induced liver injury. We highlight the dual roles of these molecules, demonstrating how some ncRNAs promote viral replication, whereas others act as tumor suppressors that become dysregulated during infection. Particular emphasis is placed on interaction networks in which lncRNAs and circRNAs function as molecular sponges for miRNAs, thereby modulating signaling pathways essential for hepatic homeostasis. Disruption of these networks contributes to a pro-inflammatory and pro-tumorigenic microenvironment. Finally, we discuss the potential of these transcripts as diagnostic biomarkers and as emerging therapeutic targets in HCV-associated HCC.