Abstract: The unprocessed polyprotein initially translated from the genome of a positive-stranded RNA virus contains epitopic configurations that are not retained in the processed proteins. The structural protein region, in particular, loses an epitopic configuration upon processing at the cleavage site between the genomic region encoding the core protein and the genomic region encoding the protein adjacent the core protein, such as the envelope protein in HCV. Compositions, methods and assays relating to the diagnosis and detection of the presence of the positive-stranded RNA virus, or antibodies to the positive-stranded RNA virus, in a sample. Compositions and methods for the induction of immune responses in, and vaccination of, an animal. Combination of the unprocessed core region with a non-structural protein (such as an NS5 or an unprocessed NS3-NS4 fusion from HCV).

Abstract: A complex comprised of the HBcAg and an albumin or an unprocessed structural protein from a positive stranded RNA virus. Pursuant to such complexing, the antigenicity of the HBcAg is enhanced when compared to HBcAg alone, in terms of both or either affinity or specificity. This complexed HBcAg can be recognized by the immune system, which produces antibodies that have a high specificity and affinity for the complexed HBcAg, although such antibodies typically do also bind the uncomplexed antigen to a lower specificity and affinity. Also, methods and devices using the same.

Abstract: The invention relates to a DNA molecule, a polypeptide expressed by the molecule, their use in diagnosis and their methods of production. More particularly, the invention relates to a diagnostic DNA molecule, a diagnostic protein, diagnostic antibodies and protective antigen and antibodies for hepatitis C virus (HCV). The DNA molecule disclosed herein is characterized by the DNA molecule derived from the genome of an HCV, and codes for a polypeptide having the antigenicity of an HCV core antigen protein. The polypeptide may be used in the detection of HCV.

Abstract: The invention relates to a polypeptide expressed by a DNA molecule, its use in diagnosis and its methods of production. The polypeptide disclosed herein is encoded by a DNA molecule derived from the genome of an HCV, and comprises a hepatitis C virus (HCV) core antigen protein fused to a part of an envelope region of a hepatitis C virus (HCV) protein The polypeptide may be used in the detection of HCV.