Hepatitis C Protocols (Methods in Molecular Medicine)

The identification of hepatitis C virus by Michael Houghton and his c- leagues at the Chiron Corporation nearly years ago represented a technical tour de force of modern molecular medicine. This breakthrough not only unearthed the causative agent of non-A non-B hepatitis that had eluded the best of scientists for more than 20 years, but also was symbolic of another chapter in the changing paradigm of modern science and medicine. The re- lutionary concept of identifying a pathogen without actually visualizing or detecting it will forever redefine the way we approach pathogenesis of d- eases whose cause is unknown. It is benefitting that this discovery treads on the heels of the human immunodeficiency pandemic, and parallels the ala- ing emergence of various microbial pestilences in the world. Despite the rapid advances in our understanding of the virus, there is much remaining to learn about it. This book highlights some of the important areas yet to be unraveled. As illustrated in this book, the marriage between basic science and clinical medicine is essential in our quest for these unknowns. The last decade has focused on the fundamentals of the virus; the next decade must underscore translational research, bridging clinical medicine and basic science with re- ization of fundamental knowledge to improve prevention, diagnosis, and tre- ment of viral hepatitis C.

In Hepatitis C Protocols, Johnson YN Lau and his expert collaborators present cutting-edge techniques for study of the hepatitis C virus infection and its disease, hepatitis C, which afflict an estimated 170 million people worldwide. The methods range from the detection of anti-HCV in serum and HCV in liver tissue, to HCV genotyping and the detection and quantification of HCV in serum. In addition to these key protocols, the authoritative contributors also evaluate recombinant proteins in immunological test systems, including the identification of important antigenic epitopes, antibodies, and recombinant antigens. Molecular and immunological techniques to study this virus and its infection, as well as
animal models and recombinant virus technology commonly used to express hepatitis C viral proteins, are also developed.

Hepatitis C Protocols summarizes the state-of-the-art in today's research and understanding of the virology of hepatitis C virus. The methods and systems detailed in this book will play a key role in the development of more effective antivirals, in the development of vaccines, and in a deeper understanding of viral replication strategies, viron structure, and the mechanisms of viron assembly and release. A valuable new standard resource for all researchers and clinicians, Hepatitis C Protocols leads the way
toward improved prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of viral hepatitis C.