Interferon revisited: Peering behind the lines of antiviral defense

HCV is a positive-stranded RNA virus, that accounts for approximately 71 million chronically infected individuals worldwide and represents a major risk factor for liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.1 For a long time, interferon (IFN)-alpha regimens were the cornerstone of HCV therapy, which depending on the HCV genotype, led to a sustained virologic response in 54 –75% of patients.2 However, therapy with IFNs is lengthy and burdensome for many patients due to the broad spectrum of adverse effects.
Source: Journal of Hepatology - Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Tags: Editorial Source Type: research