This comprehensive overview of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection includes its treatment history, genetic factors, resistance issues, and future research directions. Initially, treatments included IFNα, IFNα plus ribavirin, and pegylated-IFNα-RBV. However, they had a maximum sustained virological response (SVR) of only 60% and significant side effects. The advent of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) greatly improved SVR (>90%) with fewer side effects. Resistance-associated substitution poses a challenge to DAAs.

Researchers suggest future research should focus on overcoming RAS, developing new treatments for different medical conditions, including organ transplants, and creating vaccines for long-lasting immunity across different HCV genotypes. The need for new therapeutic strategies, effective vaccines, and methods to circumvent DAAs resistance is also emphasized.

Reference: Medina C, García AH, Crespo FI, et al. A Synopsis of Hepatitis C Virus Treatments and Future Perspectives. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2023 Oct 11;45(10):8255-8276. doi: 10.3390/cimb45100521. PMID: 37886964; PMCID: PMC10605161.