In 2021, the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research was announced as one of the winners of the Queens Anniversary Prize. This was awarded for advanced virology research to combat diseases such as Hepatitis C and dengue virus, and leading expertise in the secure handling of samples and testing antivirals.

Professor John McLauchlan, a leading expert in viral hepatitis at the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, delves into the global impact of Hepatitis C, a blood-borne virus affecting 71 million people worldwide.

With the World Health Organization's goal to eliminate Hepatitis C by 2030, the CVR has been at the forefront of research. Through initiatives like co-founding HCV Research UK, the team has created a cohort of 12,000 individuals living with Hepatitis C, supporting over 70 studies to better understand the virus and improve treatment. The HCV-GLUE computing resource aids clinicians in predicting treatment resistance, guiding optimal care.

Vaccine development for hepatitis C is difficult because of the high diversity of variants. An approach is being explored involving the mimicking of parts of the virus that are targeted by antibodies to neutralise infections.

Through all of these initiatives, the CVR is contributing to the World Hearth Organizations goal of eliminating Hepatitis C.