Altered expression and activation of signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) in hepatitis C virus infection: in vivo and in vitro studies

Abstract

STAT3 is downregulated in HCV infected livers and in Huh7 cells bearing the full length HCV replicon. HCV replication is associated with impaired Jak-STAT signalling by antiviral and cytoprotective cytokines. These effects may favour viral replication while facilitating the progression of liver disease.