UCLA researchers in the Department of Pathology and Hematology have developed a novel antiviral treatment for Hepatitis C virus based on the metabolic modulating properties of dietary compound Quercetin.
BACKGROUND:
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is responsible for 180 million infections worldwide and over 12,000 deaths in the U.S. each year. Despite most cases being asymptomatic, chronic infections can result in liver failure and liver cancer if left untreated. To date, there are no preventative vaccines for HCV infections. Antiviral therapeutics remain the most effective method to prevent HCV-associated inflammation and subsequent liver diseases. Previous standard treatments included interferon-based antiviral therapies; however, adverse effects and contra-indications excluded a majority of patients. Newer interferon-free antiviral medications reduce adverse events but are very costly and require longer treatment duration greatly limiting patient access. Therefore, there is a strong need for novel and safe HCV antiviral treatments that are more accessible to patients worldwide to curb spread of HCV.
INNOVATION:
Researchers at UCLA have developed a novel interferon-free antiviral strategy treatment for HCV infections. Their work has identified the dietary supplement Quercetin, found naturally in many plants, to possess antiviral properties against HCV. Previous studies on Quercetin use have described benefits for respiratory tract infections and prevention of anaphylactic reactions. Work at UCLA demonstrates that Quercetin treatment modulates metabolism impacted by HCV infection. These impacted metabolites known to increase innate immunity and directly and indirectly activate antiviral immune signaling cascades and ultimately inhibits HCV replication. Studies in human tissue cultures validated the antiviral properties of Quercetin and proved to be safe in phase 1 dose escalation study in patients.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS:
- Antiviral treatment for Hepatitis c virus
- Serve as Hepatitis C virus vaccine substrate
ADVANTAGES:
- Low cost due to wide availability of dietary supplement Quercetin
- Increased safety of treatment as Quercetin is found naturally in many foods
DEVELOPMENT-TO-DATE:
Phase 1 dose escalation completed in chronic HCV patients
Related Papers (from the inventors only)
1. O.Gonzales et al. “The Heat Shock Protein Inhibitor Quercetin attenuates Hepatitis C Production” in Hepatology Dec. 2009
2. N.Lu et al. “A Phase 1 Dose Escalation Study Demonstrates Quercetin Safety and Explores Potential for Bioflavonoid Antivirals in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C” in Phytotherapy Research Jan.2016