The α-SMA positive HSCs were found to be significantly detectable in all stages and grades of CHC.11 It was observed that immunoexpression was more significant in lower stage of fibrosis (F≤ 2) than in high stage.8, 11 This may be because they were already activated by the virus infection, even in the absence of marked fibrosis. The gene discussed is ACTA1; the disease is viral infectious disease.