The role of CCR5 in HCV infection.

Efficient recruitment and activation of immuno-competent cells is crucial for an effective immune response to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Chemokines and chemokine receptors have been shown to be critically involved in these processes. The CCR5 chemokine receptor is expressed on several cells of the immune system and has been suggested to influence the susceptibility to HCV infection as well as natural course and progression of hepatitis C. However, these reports are still controversial. This review will summarize and discuss the available data regarding the potential role of CCR5 and its ligands in hepatitis C.