Comparative Analysis of Conventional and Novel Laboratory Assays for the Communicable Disease Hepatitis C

Objectives: In this study, we evaluated conventional and novel laboratory assays, particularly on antimicrobial peptides and T-lymphocyte clusters among the innovative approaches. Theoretical framework: T-lymphocyte were tested in 87 individuals with chronic hepatitis C. All patients were divided into two groups: with chronic hepatitis C, and the group in which hepatitis C overlaps with secondary infection leading to pneumonia. Methods: Endotoxin and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) were determined using the ELISA technique. Determination of the clusters of differentiation (CD) was carried out by indirect immunofluorescence reaction, while the circulating immune clusters (CIC) were identified by the method of sedimentation with a 3.5% solution of polyethylene glycol. Statistical processing of the results was carried out using the Wilkinson U-test (Mann- Whitney). Results and discussion: The primary indicators of liver function are slightly elevated in hepatitis C and шеs complicated by pneumonia form. However, the novel biomarkers such as CD25⁺, endotoxin, LBP, and defensin appear to be more informative for diagnosing HCV than the routine laboratory tests currently in use. Research Implications: The results of this study show, that instead of standard tests for liver damage, it is much more expedient to use the antimicrobial peptides defensin and LBP, which are more informative in the diagnosis of hepatitis C, especially when it overlaps with secondary infection. Value: This study serves to improve detection of hepatitis C related complications