Redox-reversible HCV proteins with native-like conformation

摘要

The present invention relates to HCV proteins in which cysteine residues are reversibly protected during purification. Eventually, this purification procedure results in HCV proteins with biological activity and a native-like protein conformation, which present corresponding epitopes. The present invention pertains also to drug screening methods using these HCV proteins, and diagnostic and therapeutic applications, such as vaccines and drugs.