Models that allow dissection of the interplay between viral infection and host genetics are limited. Such models are becoming increasingly important to follow up the results of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) that implicate specific genes in conferring increased susceptibility or resistance to infections. Schwartz, Trehan et al. now report a system using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that will help to address this issue. iPSCs, which have the potential to differentiate into any cell type, have been used to investigate the aetiology of several other diseases, but they have not yet been applied to study infections. Here, the authors differentiated human iPSCs into hepatocyte-like cells (iHLCs) and infected them with hepatitis C virus (HCV). They show that, similar to primary human hepatocytes, iHLCs support the entire HCV life cycle. They express the host factors necessary for HCV entry, produce live virus capable of infecting other cells and mount an antiviral response. These data introduce iHLCs as a new tool for studying virus-host interactions, expanding the currently limited systems that are available for studying HCV infection.
iPSC-based model of viral infection
iPSC-based model of viral infection. Dis Model Mech 1 March 2012; 5 (2): 149. doi:
Download citation file:
Advertisement
Cited by
Special Issue: The RAS Pathway

Our latest special issue is now complete. It showcases RAS-driven mechanisms of disease progression, and highlights approaches to treat and modify the disease course in model systems.
Call for papers: Moving Heart Failure to Heart Success

Disease Models & Mechanisms is pleased to welcome submissions for consideration for an upcoming special issue, Moving Heart Failure to Heart Success: Mechanisms, Regeneration & Therapy. The deadline for submitting articles to the special issue has been extended to 1 August 2022.
Propose a new Workshop

Our Workshops bring together leading experts and early-career researchers from a range of scientific backgrounds. Applications are now open to propose Workshops for 2024, one of which will be held in a Global South country. .
A focus on Drosophila

In a series of front section articles, DMM is highlighting the versatility, breadth, and scope of Drosophila research in human disease modelling and translational medicine.
Apply for a DMM Conference Travel Grant

Aimed at early-career researchers wanting to attend in-person and virtual meetings, the next application deadline for a DMM Conference Travel Grant is 6 June 2022. Find out more and hear from past recipients about their experience of the grant.
Other journals from
The Company of Biologists