The present invention provides a cell line capable producing infectious hepatitis C virus 1a (HCV 1a) particles in culture. Disclosed are compositions and methods for an HCV 1a (clone H77) transfected immortal human hepatocyte (IHH) capable of generating infectious HCV 1a virus particles in culture. Also disclosed are methods of using the cell line, or HCV 1a virus particles derived from said cell line, to screen for potential therapeutic agents which interfere with HCV 1a virus propagation to treat hepatic disease.