HSC90 is required for nascent hepatitis C virus core protein stability in yeast cells

► We demonstrate that HCV core protein (Core) impairs growth in budding yeast. ► We identify HSP90 inhibitors as compounds that restore the yeast growth. ► HSC90 can confer stability of the nascent but not the pre-existing Core in yeast. ► An organelle interaction domain of the Core is crucial for the growth retardation. ► The yeast system may be utilized to select compounds that can reduce Core stability.