Abstract

HEPATITIS C: A REVIEW OF VIROLOGY AND LIFE CYCLE

*Wael Hassan Ali Alrammaal, ‏Abdulaziz Ahmad Alrashidi, ‏Reem Mahmoud Nashar, ‏Homoud Awade Al Shammari, ‏Nahid Ahmad Lamfon and ‏
Mshaweh Mohammed Alshammry.

ABSTRACT

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a hepatotropic RNA virus linked to significant morbidity, including acute and chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The virus was first identified in 1989 and has a notorious propensity for chronic infection. Historically, treatment options were limited to pegylated interferon (IFN) and ribavirin, achieving varying sustained virological response (SVR) rates. Aim: This review aims to synthesize current knowledge of HCV virology and its life cycle, identifying critical stages that could serve as therapeutic targets. Methods: A comprehensive literature review focusing on HCV’s structure, genome, and life cycle was conducted, examining the functions of various viral proteins and their implications for treatment. Results: HCV exhibits considerable genetic diversity and immune evasion strategies, mainly through rapid mutation facilitated by its error-prone RNA polymerase. The review outlines key proteins involved in HCV attachment, entry, and replication, including envelope glycoproteins (E1/E2), nonstructural proteins (NS3/4A, NS5A, NS5B), and their roles in viral assembly and host interactions. Conclusion: Understanding HCV's virology is paramount for developing innovative therapies. Current treatments, including direct-acting antivirals, target specific life cycle stages and show promise in achieving higher SVR rates. Continued research into HCV's life cycle will inform the development of novel, effective, and less toxic therapeutic strategies.

Keywords: Hepatitis C virus, virology, life cycle, RNA virus, treatment, immune evasion, direct-acting antivirals.