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There are about 150 million people around the world with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection currently, of whom 20% will ultimately progress to cirrhosis and eventually die of end - stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. Interferon (IFN) has long been recognized as the cornerstone of the treatment of chronic hepatitis C because of its role in sustained virologic response and prevention of disease progression. However, it has limited efficacy and multiple adverse effects. In recent years, direct - acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have shown good efficacy. This review summarizes the recent advances in IFN - free anti - HCV therapeutic regimens based on DAAs. We believe that, with the emergence of DAAs , IFN - free therapies will develop rapidly and display better prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]