Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a bloodborne, single-stranded RNA virus that causes hepatitis C, an infectious disease primarily affecting the liver. It is classified within the Flaviviridae family, genus Hepacivirus. The virus particle comprises an envelope with glycoproteins E1 and E2, mediating cell entry, and a core containing the RNA genome. The genome encodes a polyprotein that is cleaved into structural (Core, E1, E2) and nonstructural proteins (p7, NS2, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, NS5A, NS5B), which are key for replication. HCV is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood. Chronic infection can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Direct acting antivirals (DAAs) target viral proteins and can achieve high cure rates.

DAAs inhibit specific viral proteins essential for HCV replication, such as NS3/4A protease, NS5A protein, and NS5B RNA polymerase.