Protein is >90% pure as determined by 10% PAGE (coomassie staining).
The E.Coli derived HCV fourth generation antigen recombinant protein contains medium size core (1-126aa), NS3 (226aa), NS4 (3 epitopes) & NS5 (3 epitopes). HCV 4th Generation migrates at 46kDa.
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a significant global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus belonging to the genus Hepacivirus within the Flaviviridae family . HCV infection can lead to chronic liver diseases such as chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma .
The HCV particle contains a single-stranded RNA genome that encodes a single polyprotein. This polyprotein is processed into at least 11 polypeptides, including three structural proteins (core, and envelope proteins E1 and E2), a small polypeptide named p7, the novel F protein, and six nonstructural (NS) proteins (NS2, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, NS5A, and NS5B) . HCV is classified into eight genotypes and 93 subtypes, each with distinct geographic distributions . Genotype 4 is predominantly found in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean .
Recombinant HCV refers to the use of recombinant DNA technology to produce viral proteins or particles for research, diagnostic, or therapeutic purposes. The development of recombinant HCV proteins has been crucial in understanding the virus’s biology and in developing diagnostic assays and vaccines.
The 4th generation recombinant HCV assays are advanced diagnostic tools that detect both HCV antibodies and antigens. These assays improve the sensitivity and specificity of HCV detection, allowing for earlier diagnosis and better monitoring of the infection. The inclusion of recombinant antigens in these assays enhances their ability to detect various HCV genotypes and subtypes, making them more effective in diverse populations.
The 4th generation recombinant HCV assays represent a significant advancement in the field of HCV diagnostics. They provide several benefits: