HCV variants are described. The variants include polynucleotides
comprising non-naturally occurring HCV sequences and HCV variants that
have a transfection efficiency and ability to survive subpassage greater
than HCV that have wild-type polyprotein coding regions. Expression
vectors comprising the above polynucleotides and HCV variants are also
described, as are the provision of cells and host cells comprising the
expression vectors. Methods for identifying a cell line that is
permissive for infection with HCV are also provided, as are vaccines
comprising the above polynucleotides in a pharmaceutically acceptable
carrier. Additionally, methods for inducing immunoprotection to HCV in a
primate are described, as are methods for testing a compound for
inhibiting HCV replication.