Key message
Using quantitative proteomics, we mapped 33 protein interactions of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) receptor CD81 in liver cells. Two of the CD81 associated proteins, calpain-5 (CAPN5) and Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene B (CBLB), are critical HCV entry factors.
Translational perspective
This study shows, that using quantitative proteomics new host factors can be identified. These host factors are potential target molecules for antiviral drugs.