GENETIC MARKER FOR PREDICTING PROGNOSIS IN PATIENTS INFECTED WITH HEPATITIS C VIRUS

摘要

The present invention provides methods and materials for predicting the clinical outcome of a hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. In particular, the invention relates to methods and materials for predicating the ability of an individual to spontaneously clear a hepatitis C virus infection. It also relates to methods and materials useful for predicting the clinical response of an individual suffering from HCV infection to administration of a therapeutic treatment. Also provided are kits for predicting the ability of an individual to spontaneously clear an HCV infection, or spontaneously clear such an infection. The methods and rated kits disclosed herein can also be used to develop a treatment plan for an individual infected with HCV, or who is at risk for developing such an infection.