Immunologic, metabolic and genetic factors in hepatitis C virus infection.

ABSTRACT: The mechanisms that regulate disease progression during hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and the response to treatment are not clearly identified. Numerous studies have demonstrated that a strong host immune response against HCV favors HCV clearance. In addition, genetic factors and metabolic machinery, particularly cholesterol modulation, are involved in HCV infection. It is likely that the interplay between all of these factors contributes to the outcome of HCV infection. In recent years, the world has experienced its largest epidemic of obesity. Mexico and the United States are the leading sufferers from this epidemic at the global level. Obesity is associated with the development of numerous pathologies including hypercholesterolemia which is one of the eight most important risk facto

SUBMITTER: Fierro NA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3974511 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature