Hepatitis C virus interference via hepcidin synthesis

Iron accumulation in the liver has a negative influence on chronic hepatitis C outcome. Hepcidin, a versatile regulator of iron homeostasis is engaged in this process. Nevertheless, factors influencing maturation of hepcidin in the setting of chronic liver injury are unclear. A new finding from Poland is the association between serum prohepcidin and PEG-IFN/ribavirin efficacy in chronic hepatitis C, which may suggest possible HCV interference with hepcidin synthesis.

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