Adaptive immune responses in acute and chronic hepatitis C virus infection.
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) persists in the majority of infected individuals and is a significant cause of human illness and death globally. Recent studies have yielded important insights into immunity to HCV, in particular revealing the central role of T cells in viral control and clearance. Other key features of adaptive immune responses remain obscure, including mechanisms by which T cells control HCV replication, the role of antibodies in conferring protection and how cellular and humoral immunity are subverted in persistent infection.
Bowen
David G
DG
Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Columbus Children's Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio OH 43205, USA.
Walker
Christopher M
CM
D000818:Animals; D016174:Hepacivirus / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology* / Q000472:pathogenicity; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology; D019698:Hepatitis C, Chronic / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology