Identification of CD8+ T-cell epitopes specific for hepatitis C virus genotype 4

Virus-specific CD8+ T-cell responses play an important role in the outcome of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Thus, the identification of CD8+ T-cell epitopes is essential for the development of successful vaccination strategies against HCV. To date, most HCV-specific CD8+ T-cell epitopes have been defined in HCV genotype 1 infection. However, in the countries with the highest prevalence of HCV infection, such as Egypt, most patients are infected with HCV genotype 4. Currently, no HCV genotype 4 specific CD8+ T-cell epitopes have been identified. In this study, we analyzed patients chronically infected with g…