Therapeutics: HCV NS5A protein

Cell studies suggest disulfiram could help treat HCV by preventing Zn2+-dependent activity of HCV NS5A. In an in vitro assay, disulfiram displaced Zn2+ from HCV NS5A. In a human cell-based HCV replication assay, disulfiram decreased viral RNA replication with potency comparable to ribavarin. In the same assay, disulfiram plus interferon α (IFNα) decreased viral RNA levels compared with either agent alone. Next steps could include testing disulfiram in animal models of HCV.

The generic aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) inhibitor disulfiram is marketed to treat alcoholism. ...