Recombinant Hepatitis C Virus Core 1b protein (ab91301)

HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) viral core protein forms the internal viral coat that encapsidates the genomic RNA and is enveloped in a host cell-derived lipid membrane. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) core protein represents the first 177 amino acids of the viral precursor polyprotein and is cotranslationally inserted into the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum. The N terminus of the core protein is involved in transcriptional repression. There are over 20 different subtypes of Hepatitis C Virus; HCV type 1b is mostly found in Europe and Asia. The prevalence of HCV type 1b infection has recently decreased, although it still accounts for most HCV-related cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. High HCV viremia levels and HCV genotype type 1b are independent predictors for poor response to interferon-alpha therapy. HCV core protein is among the most conserved proteins in HCV and is known to induce sensitization of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). Therefore, it is a prime candidate for a component of a potential HCV vaccine.

Secreted; Host endoplasmic reticulum membrane; Single-pass membrane protein; Host nucleus; Host cytoplasm.