Hepatitis C is an inflammation of the liver caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV). The virus can cause both acute and chronic hepatitis, ranging in severity from a mild illness to a serious lifelong illness including liver cirrhosis and cancer. 

ccording to WHO data, globally, an estimated 50 million people have chronic HCV infection, with about 1.0 million new infections occurring per year.  

Multiple markers are used to indicate the presence and stage of HCV infection. Among them, anti-HCV antibodies targeting various HCV proteins (e.g., core, NS3, NS4, and NS5) are commonly used. WHO recommends that the first step in testing should be a serological test to detect anti-HCV antibodies, which identifies individuals who have been infected with the virus. If the anti-HCV antibody test is positive, a nucleic acid test (NAT) for HCV RNA is required to confirm chronic infection and determine the need for treatment. 

As part of Hytest’s ongoing commitment to expanding our infectious disease portfolio, we are pleased to announce three new additions to our HCV antigen product line. Following the recombinant HCV NS3 antigen (Cat. #8HC53), we now offer the recombinant HCV NS4 antigens (Cat. # 8HC51 and Cat. #8HC52) and the recombinant HCV core antigen (Cat. #8HC56).  

These high-quality recombinant antigens are designed to support the development of sensitive and specific serological assays for the detection of anti-HCV antibodies. The NS4 and core antigens represent immunodominant regions of the HCV genome, making them ideal components for multiplex or multi-epitope diagnostic platforms. Both antigens are produced in a recombinant expression system ensuring high purity, lot-to-lot consistency, and robust performance in various immunoassay formats, including ELISA and CLIA. 

For more detailed information, please check the Data Sheets for each product from the corresponding product page ( Cat. # 8HC51, Cat. #8HC52  and Cat. #8HC56) or contact our Sales team.