A review on hepatitis C virus: role of viral and host-cellular factors in replication and existing therapeutic strategies

Abstract

Abstract Background Hepatitis C virus, a member of Flaviviridae is a single-stranded positive-sense RNA virus infecting 62–79 million people around the globe. This blood-borne virus is one of the leading causes of liver diseases worldwide. This review aims to identify novel potential genes linked to cellular host factors, as well as revise the roles of each gene in hepatitis C Virus infection. This review also aims to provide a comprehensive insight into therapeutic advancements against HCV. Methods For this review article, 190 articles were searched via PubMed Central, Bio-One, National Academy of Science, Google Scholar, and Worldwide Science. 0ut of these 190 studies, 55 articles were selected for this review. The inclusion of articles was done on the criteria of high citation and Q1 ranking. Results The information gathered from previously published articles highlighted a critical link between host-cellular factors that are important for HCV infection. Conclusion Although many advancements in HCV treatment have been made like DAAs and HTAs, the development of a completely effective HCV therapy is still a challenge. Further research on combinations of DAAs and HTAs can help in developing a better therapeutic alternative. Keywords: Hepatitis C virus, Replication cycle, Non-structural proteins, Host-cellular factors, Treatment strategies