Infectious Disorders - Drug Targets

Article Title:

Abstract:

Background: hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection continues to be a major health problem worldwide, affecting over 58 million people. Such high genetic diversity and the ability to evade the host immune response have made this virus persistent and resistant to therapeutic eradication. The outcome of HCV infection may vary between asymptomatic and severe clinical manifestations, such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, where disease progression often occurs with the viral genotype and host factors. Objective: This review provides an overview of the molecular biology of HCV, its clinical implications, and its evolving therapeutic landscape. We discuss the most relevant gaps in current treatments, including drug resistance challenges and therapies' unavailability in resource-constrained settings, and explore potential future therapeutic approaches such as host-directed therapies and vaccine development. Methods: A systematic analysis was performed of studies conducted from January 2010 to December 2023 concerning the genetic complexity of HCV, clinical management, and therapeutic intervention. The data sources included PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, which were developed using a combination of keywords and MeSH-related terms referring to HCV, antiviral therapies, and global health. Key Findings: DAAs have transformed the treatment for HCV, generally with a cure rate of >95% and very few side effects associated with therapy. However, several significant barriers remain, including lack of vaccine, emerging drug resistance, and unequal access to treatment in resource-poor regions.