Small molecules targeting hepatitis C virus-encoded NS5A cause subcellular redistribution of their target: insights into compound modes of action.

ABSTRACT: The current standard of care for hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients consists of lengthy treatment with interferon and ribavirin. To increase the effectiveness of HCV therapy, future regimens will incorporate multiple direct-acting antiviral (DAA) drugs. Recently, the HCV-encoded NS5A protein has emerged as a promising DAA target. Compounds targeting NS5A exhibit remarkable potency in vitro and demonstrate early clinical promise, suggesting that NS5A inhibitors could feature in future DAA combination therapies. Since the mechanisms through which these molecules operate are unknown, we have used NS5A inhibitors as tools to investigate their modes of action. Analysis of replicon-containing cells revealed dramatic phenotypic alterations in NS5A localization following treatment with NS5A

SUBMITTER: Targett-Adams P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3126509 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature