HCV's days are numbered: Next-generation direct-acting antivirals and host-targeting agents

Chronic hepatitis C affects approximately 170 million people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of liver-related morbidity and mortality. Until 2011, the only therapeutic option was combination therapy of pegylated interferon and ribavirin, with efficacy rates around 50% and plenty of side effects. In the past months, important steps have been made towards a more effective antiviral therapy. However, we are still far from both highly efficient and well-tolerable ideal therapy. The development of new drugs against HCV is a very dynamic field. This review summarizes the up-to-date knowledge of the most significant anti-HCV compounds in development.