First next-generation sequencing full-genome characterization of a hepatitis C virus genotype 7 divergent subtype.
Salmona M., Caporossi A., Simmonds P., Thélu M-A., Fusillier K., Mercier-Delarue S., De Castro N., LeGoff J., Chaix M-L., François O., Simon F., Morand P., Larrat S., Maylin S.
We report the near-full-length genome sequence of a hepatitis C virus (HCV) isolate from a man originating from Democratic Republic of Congo, the genotype of which could not be determined by the routinely used sequencing technique. The near-complete genome sequence of this variant BAK1 was obtained by the association of two next-generation sequencing technologies. Evolutionary analysis indicates that this isolate, BAK1, could be the first reported strain belonging to a new HCV-7b subtype. This new subtype has been incorrectly identified as genotype 2 by the Versant HCV Genotype 2.0 assay (LiPA). The requirement of three independent isolates has been filled, and a new subtype can be assigned. More examples of HCV-7 are required to better understand its origin, its pathogenicity and its relationship with genotype 2.