HCV Core Genotype-2b
Protein is >95% pure as determined by 10% PAGE (coomassie staining).
Description
The E.coli derived recombinant protein contains the HCV core nucleocapsid immunodominant regions, amino acids 2-119.
The protein is fused to a GST tag at N-Terminus.
Product Specs
Immunoreactive with sera of HCV-infected individuals.
Product Science Overview
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a significant global health concern, infecting approximately 130-170 million people worldwide. The virus is classified into seven major genotypes, each with multiple subtypes. Among these, genotype 2b is one of the less common but clinically important variants. The emergence of recombinant forms of HCV, such as the genotype-2b recombinant, has added complexity to the understanding and treatment of HCV infections.
HCV is an enveloped, positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family. The viral genome is approximately 9.6 kilobases in length and encodes a single polyprotein, which is processed into structural and non-structural proteins. The structural proteins include the core protein, envelope proteins E1 and E2, and the p7 protein. The non-structural proteins include NS2, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, NS5A, and NS5B.
HCV genotypes are distributed globally, with genotypes 1, 2, and 3 being the most prevalent. Genotype 2 is further divided into subtypes, including 2a, 2b, 2c, and others. Genotype 2b is less common but has been identified in various regions, including Europe, North America, and Asia.
Recombinant forms of HCV arise when two different genotypes or subtypes of the virus infect the same host cell and exchange genetic material. This process, known as recombination, can result in the formation of hybrid viruses with genetic elements from both parental strains. Recombinant HCV strains are relatively rare but have been documented in clinical settings.
One notable recombinant form is the genotype-2b recombinant, which has been identified in patients with chronic HCV infection. This recombinant form typically involves the exchange of genetic material between genotype 2b and another genotype, such as genotype 1a or 1b. The resulting virus contains a combination of genetic elements from both parental strains, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment.
The presence of recombinant HCV strains poses challenges for clinical management. Standard genotyping methods may not accurately identify recombinant forms, leading to potential misclassification and suboptimal treatment. Recombinant HCV strains may also exhibit unique virological and clinical characteristics, including altered responses to antiviral therapy.
For example, a study conducted in the United States identified a genotype 2b/1a recombinant HCV strain in a patient with chronic HCV infection . This recombinant strain was detected using a method that sequences both the 5’ and 3’ portions of the HCV genome. The study highlighted the importance of comprehensive genotyping techniques to accurately identify recombinant forms and guide appropriate treatment strategies.
