Figure 1.

HCV genomic structure. After hepatocyte binding and cell internalization, HCV-RNA is released and translated into a polyprotein containing structural and nonstructural HCV proteins. NS3 serine protease and a cofactor NS4A allow for post-translational cleavage and proteolysis of the polyprotein to release NS5A and NS5B that start the viral replication process. Inhibition of NS3, NS5A/B by different DAA classes results in impaired HCV replication.

Abbreviations: DAA, direct-acting antivirals; HCV, hepatitis C virus; RNA, ribonucleic acid.