HCV coreceptor and methods of use thereof
The invention relates to the discovery that the Claudin-1 protein functions as a co-receptor for entry of HCV into cells. Methods of inhibiting, preventing or mitigating HCV infections by inhibiting HCV interactions with Claudin-1 are provided. Methods of identifying agents or compounds that interfere with HCV interactions with Claudin-1 are also provided. Finally, useful kits, cell culture compositions, agents, and compounds related to the inhibition of HCV interactions with Claudin-1 are also disclosed.
1. A method of mitigating infection of a subject with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), said method comprising administering to said subject an antibody which inhibits HCV interaction with a Claudin-1 protein by binding to the Claudin-1 protein.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said subject is a mouse, a rat, a monkey, or a human.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein said subject is a human.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein said antibody binds to extracellular loop 1 of the Claudin-1 protein.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein said antibody is a monoclonal or a single chain antibody.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein said administering comprises parenteral injection of a pharmaceutical composition comprising said antibody.
7. A method of inhibiting infection of a subject with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), said method comprising administering to said subject an antibody which inhibits HCV interaction with a Claudin-1 protein by binding to said Claudin-1 protein.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein said subject is a human.
9. The method of claim 7 , wherein said antibody is a monoclonal or a single chain antibody.
10. The method of claim 7 , wherein said administering comprises parenteral injection of a pharmaceutical composition comprising said antibody.
11. The method of claim 7 , wherein said antibody binds to extracellular loop 1 of the Claudin-1 protein.