Based on this observation and possible interactions between IL and nucleic acids, we investigated the possibility that IL controlled HCV infection independently of the immune system. Methods: We evaluated the ability of IL to interfere with HCV replication in hepatocytes and investigated the mechanisms by which IL exerts its antiviral activity.
Conclusions: These findings reveal a new role for IL in direct protection against HCV infection, independently of the immune system, and increase our understanding of the antiviral defense mechanisms controlling HCV infection. Future studies should evaluate the possible use of IL for treating other chronic disorders caused by RNA viruses, for which few treatments are currently available, or emerging RNA viruses. Lay summary: This study sheds new light on the body's arsenal for controlling hepatitis C virus HCV infection and identifies interleukin IL as an antiviral molecule capable of blocking HCV replication.
IL, which has unique biochemical and structural characteristics, penetrates infected hepatocytes and interacts directly with viral RNA, thereby blocking viral replication. IL is, therefore, a new player in antiviral defenses, operating independently of the immune system. It is of considerable potential interest for treating HCV infection and other chronic disorders caused by RNA viruses for which few treatments are currently available, and for combating emerging RNA viruses.
Keywords: IL; antiviral defense; hepatitis C virus; viral replication. Published by Elsevier B. All rights reserved. Publication types Research Support, Non-U. Substances Antiviral Agents Cytokines Interleukins.
