Binding
The HCV life cycle begins with the HCV low-affinity binding to two host receptors on the surface of a hepatocyte: low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLr) and heparin sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). This initial interaction triggers the HCV outer E1/E2 heterodimer membrane protein to bind to the scavenger receptor B1 (SRB1) and the tetraspanin protein CD81. The interactions between these proteins create a wave in the lipid membrane, propelling the HCV particle to a tight junction between hepatocytes.