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7139541 
Journal Article 
Genetic heterogeneity of hepatitis C virus 
Okamoto, H; Mishiro, S; , 
1994 
Yes 
Intervirology
ISSN: 0300-5526
EISSN: 1423-0100 
English 
There are four hierarchical strata in the genetic heterogeneity of hepatitis C virus (HCV): group above subgroup above isolates above quasispecies. The entire genome sequence has so far been reported for 16 isolates which are classifiable into 3 groups and 6 subgroups. Provisional classification of HCV is also possible using a partial sequence of the HCV genome. With the E1 region sequence for example, the present collection of HCV isolates can be classified into 9 groups and 23 subgroups. The rationale for these classifications and the epidemiological and clinical implications of genotyping HCV are reviewed.