GB virus C

GB virus C (GBV-C), also known as Hepatitis G virus (HGV), is a virus in the family Flaviviridae. This virus is known to infect humans, but it is not known to cause human disease. There is some evidence that infection with this virus can influence the course of disease in patients with HIV and Hepatitis C.

History

GBV-C was first identified in 1995 and was named after the initials of a patient with non-A, non-B, non-C hepatitis from whom the virus was first isolated. The virus was subsequently found to be identical to the previously identified Hepatitis G virus.

Virology

GBV-C is a member of the Flaviviridae family of viruses, which also includes the Hepatitis C virus. The virus is enveloped and has a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA genome. The genome is approximately 9.4 kilobases in length and encodes a single large polyprotein that is processed by host and viral proteases to produce the individual viral proteins.

Transmission

GBV-C is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood, such as through blood transfusions or intravenous drug use. The virus can also be transmitted sexually and from mother to child during childbirth.

Clinical significance

While GBV-C is known to infect humans, it is not known to cause human disease. Some studies have suggested that infection with GBV-C may have a beneficial effect in patients with HIV, slowing the progression of the disease and increasing survival time. However, these findings are controversial and further research is needed to confirm them.

See also

• Hepatitis
• Hepatitis C
• HIV
• Flaviviridae

References

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