New Approach to Keep Hepatitis C Virus Levels Down After Transplant

[willy]

(this is a watered down summary of the new treatment but looks very interesting. - Willy)

 http://www.elements4health.com/new-approach-to-keep-hepatitis-c-virus-levels-down-after-transplant.html

New Approach to Keep Hepatitis C Virus Levels Down After Transplant

Human Liver
Japanese scientists have developed an approach that transiently keeps hepatitis C virus levels down in most hepatitis C infected patients receiving a new liver.

There are an estimated 170 million people worldwide infected with hepatitis C. Chronic hepatitis C can cause cirrhosis, liver cancer and liver failure. One of the most common reasons for needing a liver transplant is liver failure or liver cancer caused by the hepatitis C virus. However, in nearly all patients the new liver becomes infected with hepatitis C virus almost immediately.

The researchers took immune cells known as lymphocytes from the donor livers before they were transplanted into the hepatitis C infected patients, activated them in vitro, and then injected them into the patients three days after they had received their liver transplants. Importantly, these infused cells were able to keep the hepatitis C virus at bay even though the patients were taking immunosuppressive drugs to prevent their immune systems from rejecting the new livers. Despite showing clear clinical effects, the authors are planning further studies in which they will modify the protocol in an attempt to find a way to keep hepatitis C virus levels down for longer and in all patients.

[KatNyerHAT]

Thanks, Willy,  This sounds really interesting!  Can't wait to hear the results when they can prolong keeping the levels down!

Hugs,
Kat

[Hank's mom]

This would be a big load off so many of our minds - particularly those who are non-responders. There have been times when I've questioned the merits of giving me a liver that my hcv will destroy in no time.

My doc has always said that they have always found a way to make every thing work and work well - but still...

This could be the thing that gives more hope than even a new liver can.

Thanks Willy,
Susie