| [ Summary ] |
Persistent infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is well known to lead to cirrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Recently we reported that the amino terminus region of HCV nonstructural proteins (NS3) transforms mouse cells NIH3T3 and the transformant has the potential for tumorigenicity. We described the interaction between HCV proteins, including NS3 and cellular proteins. Mouse cells co-transfected with HCV-NS3 and turnor suppressor gene p53 did not show any tumorigenecity. The rcsults suggest the interaction of HCV-NS3 and p53. In the binding experiment, it was found that NS3 could bind to some cellular proteins, even though the binding effect was not as strong. These kinds of interaction may influence and modify cellular function. To clarify the mechanism of the transformation caused by HCV, further analyses on the interaction of cellular proteins and HCV-proteins, including NS3 and core, NS5A etc. is necessary. |