Natural compound blocks hepatitis C infection

[Celebration]

http://www.physorg.com/news181910650.html

French and his team set out to identify the cellular factors involved in hepatitis C replication and, using mass spectrometry, found that heat shock proteins (HSPs) 40 and 70 were important for viral infection. HSP 70 was previously known to be involved, but HSP 40 was linked for the first time to hepatitis C infection, French said. They further showed that the natural compound Quercetin, which inhibits the synthesis of these proteins, significantly inhibits viral infection in tissue culture.

"This is an important finding because we can block these proteins with the idea of
reducing the level of the virus in people and, ideally, completely eliminate it," said French, who also is a researcher at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The study appeared in the most recent issue of the journal Hepatology.

Since Quercetin has been shown to inhibit hepatitis C infection, French said, a Phase I clinical trial will be launched at UCLA to determine if the compound is safe and effective.

Quercetin is a plant-derived bioflavonoid, and is used by some people as a nutritional supplement. Laboratory studies show it may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and it is being investigated for a wide range of potential health benefits. Currently, there are early-stage clinical trials testing quercetin for safety and efficacy against sarcoidosis, asthma and glucose absorption in obesity and diabetes.

[tabatha]

1. Oh no, not more natural remedies.

Sarcasm.

"According to data from the Seven Countries Study, the main dietary sources of quercetin are onions, tea, apples, and red wine. However, in Nordic countries, including Finland, berries are commonly consumed and are likely a more important source of quercetin than the previously mentioned foods."

[Melissa G]

2. Quercetin and nettles is what I use for allergies

Good stuff!

[tabatha]

3. Nettles - that is a new one I'll have to research.