Articles tagged with Hepatitis C
A new combination pill of sofosbuvir and ledipasvir has been shown to be highly effective in treating genotype 1 hepatitis C, even in patients with cirrhosis or previous treatment failure. The study found a sustained virological response rate of nearly 97%, offering new hope for patients with currently untreatable virus.
The AGA Clinical Decision Tool for the Screening and Evaluation of Hepatitis C will aid gastroenterologists in managing HCV-positive patients. The tool provides an evidence-based approach to initial evaluation of HCV-positive patients, helping to address the growing burden of chronic HCV infection.
Two new studies demonstrate the effectiveness of sofosbuvir in preventing post-transplant recurrence of hepatitis C virus in liver transplant recipients. The experimental anti-viral drug was found to be safe and effective in over 60% of patients, offering a new hope for those with limited treatment options.
A study found that over half of chronic hepatitis C patients were not treated due to therapy limitations or waiting for newer treatments, leaving them without access to potentially life-saving care. Another study identified a significant 'lost opportunity' for patients to achieve the current best result of treatment.
A new study found that danoprevir added to the current treatment regimen for patients with hepatitis C leads to high rates of remission and a well-tolerated safety profile. The drug demonstrated an 85% sustained virologic response rate, making it a potential breakthrough in treating this serious liver disease.
Experts advocate for widespread screening of 'Baby Boomer' generation in Canada due to high prevalence and lack of awareness. Early treatment makes hepatitis C curable, saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.
A Miriam Hospital researcher joins an international panel to issue first-of-its-kind recommendations for treating hepatitis C in people who inject drugs. The guidelines present evidence-based strategies for improving assessment and treatment, which could dramatically reduce the burden of liver disease worldwide.
Researchers at University of Bristol suggest combining antiviral treatment, opiate substitution therapy, and high-coverage needle and syringe programs to achieve substantial reductions in HCV prevalence among people who inject drugs. This approach can lead to a 45% reduction in HCV prevalence over ten years.
Researchers at UCSF recommend six measures to prevent hepatitis C, including clean syringe programs, social issue addressing, and injection cessation interventions. The study estimates 31,000 new cases per year among young injectors in the US.
Researchers at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine identified the disruption of iron uptake receptor TfR1 in Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected cells. The study shows that TfR1 mediates HCV entry and contributes to hepatic iron overload, a common complication in chronic HCV infections.
Researchers found that ibodutant significantly improved symptoms in over 50% of individuals with IBS-D, while an investigational therapy achieved high response rates in patients with hepatitis C. The studies' findings hold promise for patients who have struggled with current treatments.
Researchers found targeted screening for hepatitis C to be cost-effective in populations with a higher estimated prevalence rate. The study showed that screening followed by guideline-based treatment can save $47,000 per quality-adjusted life year.
A new study published in NEJM finds that sofosbuvir achieves a response rate of 93% for genotype 2 and 61% for genotype 3 patients. This represents a significant improvement over traditional interferon-based treatments, which often have limited efficacy in these patient populations.
The Johns Hopkins researchers developed a Web-based mathematical model to predict which patients would benefit from taking a possibly infected organ. The tool considers factors such as waiting list duration, previous transplants, age, and diabetes status.
A new study suggests that early diagnosis and treatment of Hepatitis C in intravenous drug users can prevent many transmissions by identifying 'super-spreaders' who are highly infectious. By understanding how the virus spreads in these individuals, researchers hope to develop targeted interventions to stop its spread.
A meta-analysis of 67 studies confirmed IL28B polymorphisms impact natural HCV clearance and PEG-IFN/RBV treatment response. Favourable genotypes equated to more than double the probability of achieving sustained virologic response, supporting personalized medicine approaches.
Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate the hepatitis C RNA to block its hijacking of cell machinery, potentially leading to new treatments.
Researchers at UNC discovered that the hepatitis C virus binds with microRNA miR-122 to protect itself, promoting viral replication. This interaction presents a promising target for new drugs to treat the infection.
Hepatitis C virus triggers liver cell entry through PI3K and AKT pathway activation, potentially leading to cancer, cirrhosis, or organ failure. Researchers identified a novel target for anti-HCV drugs by disrupting the PI3K-AKT pathway.
The US Preventive Services Task Force has updated its recommendations for hepatitis C screening in asymptomatic adults. The new guidelines suggest that targeted screening may be beneficial, as up to two-thirds of infected patients are missed by routine screening methods. However, there is currently no direct evidence that screening imp...
A new study has shown that rapid and point-of-care hepatitis C tests are highly accurate and reliable, with accuracy rates ranging from 97 to 99%. These tests have the potential to transform global screening practices and improve treatment outcomes for millions of infected individuals worldwide.
High rates of HIV, hepatitis C, and tuberculosis have been found in homeless populations globally, with rates up to 46 times higher in the US than in the general population. Infections can lead to community spread, malnutrition, and increased healthcare use.
Scientists from Merck, Novartis, and Arkema develop breakthroughs in chronic hepatitis C treatment and leukemia therapy. They also create technology to improve solar heat gain control. These innovations have a significant impact on human lives and the environment.
Scientists have identified biomarkers that predict rapid onset of liver damage in hepatitis C patients after a liver transplant. These markers appear soon after the transplant and before clinical evidence of liver damage, offering new hope for personalized monitoring and treatment options.
New CDC guidelines recommend universal HCV screening for all Americans born between 1945 and 1965, with strong evidence supporting the association between sustained virologic response and reduced liver cancer risk. Brief alcohol screening and intervention are also recommended for those diagnosed with HCV.
A study of children with chronic hepatitis C found that those treated with peginterferon alpha experienced significant changes in height, weight, and BMI, which were reversible after treatment cessation. Height-for-age scores did not return to baseline for many children two years after stopping therapy.
Scientists identify key players in the infection warning system within living cells, enhancing the body's defenses against viruses. RIG-I-like receptors and 14-3-3 epsilon protein interactions play a crucial role in detecting viral RNA and triggering an immune response.
Researchers have identified genetic and blood serum markers that can predict the rapid progression of hepatitis C disease, allowing for more effective treatment decisions. Patients with high levels of a specific protein called MCP-1 are at risk for severe liver diseases.
A new Penn study of 154 participants with chronic HCV found that silymarin supplements offered no significant improvements in liver disease treatment. The trial tested higher-than-normal doses of silymarin and concluded it had no impact on ALT levels or quality-of-life measures.
A multicenter clinical trial published in JAMA found that silymarin supplements have no effect on serum ALT levels or hepatitis C virus levels. The study involved 154 patients with chronic hepatitis C and showed no significant differences in response between treatment groups.
Scientists have identified a highly conserved 'switch' in the Hepatitis C virus that can be targeted by custom-designed drugs to lock it into an inactive state. This discovery offers a promising approach to treating the virus, which affects over 170 million people worldwide.
This special issue of Gastroenterology focuses on the latest progress made in viral hepatitis research and care, including new diagnostic tools, therapies, and prevention strategies. Classic review articles and expert commentaries address critical unresolved issues and fundamental questions for the future.
A US study demonstrates that hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication can be limited by innate immune responses in murine cells. Inactivating these pathways and expressing entry factors enables infection and support of HCV replication.
Recent clinical trials confirm that combinations of antivirals can provide a more effective treatment with fewer side effects. The new therapies target genotypes 1, 2, or 3 and include direct-acting antivirals and host-targeting antivirals.
Recent clinical trials show promise for treating previously difficult to treat HCV patients, including those co-infected with HIV, and immunosuppressant-free treatment options like TMC435. New findings indicate higher SVR24 rates with addition of Boceprevir to PegIFN-α-2b and RBV.
Researchers aim to identify compounds disabling the NS2 protein, crucial for HCV replication, with a novel high-throughput screening test. The goal is to develop chemical tools to study NS2's role in HCV biology and potentially discover new treatments.
A new study suggests that broader screening for hepatitis C virus (HCV) would be cost effective in reducing related mortality and morbidity. The report emphasizes the importance of linking those infected with the treatment they need to prevent further complications.
A new report estimates that broader screening for hepatitis C virus (HCV) would be cost-effective in reducing mortality and morbidity. The study recommends a one-time screening for all adults between 20 and 69 years old to identify those infected with the virus, which affects 4 million U.S. residents.
A computer model used by researchers at Stanford University found that new triple-therapies for genotype-1 hepatitis C are cost-effective for patients with advanced disease. The treatment options have more severe side effects and boost costs, but help these patients avoid costly cancers and liver transplants.
A University of Alberta researcher has developed a vaccine that shows signs of prevention against all strains of hepatitis C. The vaccine was tested on humans and elicited broad cross-neutralizing antibodies against major strains, offering hope for those with the disease.
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a cell-permeable peptide that blocks viral replication in liver cancer and cirrhosis. The peptide targets heat shock proteins (HSPs) 40 and 70, which are important factors in hepatitis C virus infection.
Researchers developed a new combination drug therapy that successfully suppressed hepatitis C genotype 1 infection in a significant proportion of patients. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, focused on treating patients who had not responded to previous treatment with PEG-interferon alfa and ribavirin.
Recent Mayo Clinic studies identify risk factors for rising liver cancer cases, including hepatitis C infection and fatty liver disease. The studies suggest that screening for hepatitis C could improve treatment and survival rates for affected populations.
The hepatitis C virus has evolved a unique relationship with the liver's miR-122 microRNA to stabilize its RNA and promote efficient replication. A new experimental antiviral drug works by binding to and sequestering this microRNA, destabilizing viral genome and accelerating degradation.
A study by Henry Ford Hospital found that patients with advanced liver disease have significantly higher healthcare costs compared to those with early stages of the disease. The average annual cost for patients with end-stage liver disease was estimated to be $59,995.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that proactive screening for hepatitis C among the birth cohort (1945-1965) is cost-effective and can identify over 800,000 currently unidentified cases. This strategy could save thousands of lives each year compared to current case identification methods.
Recent studies have shown fecal microbiota transplants to be effective in treating C. difficile and inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, researchers found that cigarette smoking impairs pancreatic duct cell function, even after cessation, increasing the risk of colorectal cancer for women.
A combination treatment of telaprevir with pegylated interferon and ribavirin showed substantial improvement in sustained viral response among African Americans, with an SVR rate of 61% compared to 25% with standard care. Screening for Hepatitis C during routine colon cancer screening is also being explored, particularly among Baby Boo...
Researchers at Miriam Hospital demonstrated a practical strategy for regularly screening HIV-infected patients for acute hepatitis C virus infection, which can lead to serious health complications. The study found that even in a busy clinic setting, it is possible to screen for and diagnose HCV in its earliest stages.
A Penn study found that hepatitis C patients are more likely to forget their medication over time, highlighting the need for interventions to improve adherence. The researchers suggest strategies such as pill box refills and reminders to help patients stay on track with treatment.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that approximately two-thirds of patients with hepatitis C can be cured in six months, rather than the standard 48-week treatment. The study showed that response-guided therapy is a successful strategy for individualizing treatment based on patient responses.
A new study has shown that a 24-week treatment course for hepatitis C is just as effective as a 48-week regimen for many patients. The study included 540 patients with chronic genotype 1 hepatitis C who had not previously been treated or could not be successfully treated with current standard of care.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients with hepatitis C who received a telaprevir-based regimen for 24 weeks had a high cure rate. This suggests that extended treatment is unnecessary and may lead to better medication adherence and reduced side effects.
A study published in PLoS Medicine found that genotyping patients with hepatitis C can improve doctors' ability to predict treatment response. The study identified an interaction between IL28B, HLA-C, and KIR genes as a mechanism for viral control, potentially leading to improved therapies.
Researchers have identified two weak points in the hepatitis C virus that could be targeted by a new vaccine. The discovery uses next-generation deep sequencing and computer analytics to track changes in the virus after infection, revealing opportunities for effective vaccine development.
A genome-wide study identified a genetic variant associated with liver cancer development in chronic hepatitis C virus carriers. The DEPDC5 SNP was found to roughly double the odds of developing HCC among Japanese individuals with chronic HCV infection.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a powerful way to suppress hepatitis C by targeting different parts of the virus. Two prototype small molecule drugs, p7 inhibitors, attack the virus in distinct ways, suggesting they could be used together with 'direct-acting' drugs for more effective treatment.
A new drug telaprevir has been shown to offer a faster and stronger viral cure for hepatitis C than standard treatment, with 75% of patients cured compared to 44% on standard therapy. The study also found significant benefits in subgroups of patients who do not typically respond well to standard therapy.
A recent study reveals that hepatitis A virus (HAV) evades the innate immune response more effectively than hepatitis C virus (HCV), which causes chronic infections. The research provides critical insights into the nature of HCV's persistence and highlights the importance of understanding how the body responds to these viruses.
A new study found that acute Hepatitis A virus is more efficient at evading the host's interferon response, allowing it to linger in the body for almost a year. This discovery undermines current theories on chronic Hepatitis C development and highlights the need for further research into Hepatitis-host interactions.