HBV increases the expression of hepcidin, while HCV decreases its expression.[44] Furthermore, some studies have shown that chronic viral hepatitis inhibits the synthesis of hepcidin by inducing oxidative DNA damage.[45,46] Compared with that caused by HCV, the oxidative damage caused by HBV is relatively mild.[47] Iron deposition was found in hepatocytes and reticular endothelial cells of patients with CHC.[48] Similar to other viruses, HCV needs host cell components to proliferate, and iron is one of the most critical components. This evidence concerns the gene HAMP and cryohydrocytosis.