Immunity and Hepatitis C: A Review

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide. Due to shared transmission routes, the prevalence of HCV is especially high among individuals infected with HIV. HIV uninfected individuals spontaneously clear HCV approximately 30% of the time, while the rate of control in HIV infected individuals who subsequently acquire HCV is substantially lower. In addition, complications of HCV are more frequent in those with HIV infection, making liver disease the leading cause of non-AIDS-related death in HIV infected individuals. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the role of the innate and adaptive immune responses to HCV in those with and without HIV. Further defining the interaction between hepatitis C and the host immune system will potentially reveal insights into HCV pathogenesis and the host’s ability to prevent persistent infection, as well as direct the development of vaccines.

Current evidence for the hepatoprotective activities of the medicinal mushroom Antrodia cinnamomea

“…, produce viral proteins and enzymes) [12,13] and immunity ( e.g. , synthesize and place viral antigens on host cell surfaces) [14], and develop immortalization ( e.g. , modulate surface markers).…”

Genetic disruption of CD8 + Treg activity enhances the immune response to viral infection

“…Although vaccines have led to the eradication of smallpox (2) and the prevention of many other viral infections, major obstacles to progress include an incomplete understanding of the interactions between the immune system and viral pathogens that underlie viral evasion, T-cell exhaustion, and immunopathology (3). Further definition of immunological mechanisms that promote robust antiviral immune responses with minimal host tissue damage requires a better understanding of the host immune response during the progression, spread, and clearance of virus (4,5).…”

Strong HCV NS3/4a, NS4b, NS5a, NS5b-specific cellular immune responses induced in Rhesus macaques by a novel HCV genotype 1a/1b consensus DNA vaccine

“…8,14,25 These immunological correlates of acute resolution provide benchmarks for HCV vaccine development. The importance of an early T cell response is highlighted by patients who resolve multiple HCV infections.…”