It has been estimated that approximately 200 million individuals worldwide are infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). In the absence of treatment, the majority of HCV-infected individuals develop chronic hepatitis, which is closely associated with progressive liver disease including cirrhosis and liver cancer. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common tumours in the world, and infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the major cause for the disease. Unfortunately, significant side effects and the emerging problem of drug resistance can severely compromise the efficacy of available antiviral agents. Thus, the development of specific, more effective treatment is a major public health objective. Here we will study biochemical mechanisms involved in inhibition of viral enzymes that play critical roles in the life cycle of the virus. Success in this research will hopefully provide novel tools that help to develop novel strategies for the treatment of the infection.