Hepatitis C virus nonstructural proteins (HCV NS proteins)

Hepatitis C virus nonstructural proteins are a set of viral proteins produced during HCV infection that play essential roles in RNA genome replication, proteolytic processing of the viral polyprotein, and the assembly of new infectious virus particles. These proteins are generally classified as enzymes (such as proteases, helicases, and polymerases) or membrane-associated proteins that organize and facilitate the replication complex within specialized cytoplasmic membrane structures. They are intracellular targets and do not form part of the virus particle itself. Therapeutic targeting of these molecules with direct-acting antiviral drugs has revolutionized HCV treatment by achieving robust viral suppression and cure rates.

Other names

HCV NS proteinsHepatitis C virus non-structural proteinsNS2, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, NS5A, NS5B, p7 (individual protein aliases)

Inhibition of NS3/4A protease blocks viral polyprotein processing and replication NS5A inhibitors disrupt organization of replication complexes and viral assembly NS5B inhibitors directly inhibit the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity and block viral RNA synthesis