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Updated: May 17, 2026
11:54
Measurement of BK-polyomavirus Non-Coding Control Region Driven Transcriptional Activity Via Flow Cytometry
Published on: July 13, 2019
[Polyomavirus BK-associated nephropathy after kidney transplant]
Fabrizio Ginevri1, Michela Cioni, Angelica Parodi
1U.O.C. di Nefrologia, Dialisi e Trapianto Renale, Istituto G. Gaslini, Genova - Italy.
Summary
Kidney transplant recipients face increased viral infections like polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PyVAN). Early molecular screening and reduced immunosuppression improve outcomes, with BKV-specific T-cells showing therapeutic promise.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Virology
- Immunology
Context:
- Advances in immunosuppression reduce kidney transplant rejection but increase viral infections.
- Polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PyVAN) affects up to 10% of kidney transplant recipients, potentially causing graft failure.
- Improved diagnostics and screening programs have decreased PyVAN-related graft loss.
Purpose:
- To summarize the current understanding and management of polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PyVAN) in kidney transplant recipients.
- To highlight the role of molecular screening and T-cell immunity in PyVAN management.
- To discuss emerging therapeutic strategies for PyVAN.
Summary:
- PyVAN diagnosis relies on histology, but early detection via molecular methods allows timely intervention.
- Reducing immunosuppression is the only proven treatment for PyVAN progression.
- BKV-specific T-cell immunity is crucial for controlling viral replication and disease progression, offering potential for monitoring and adoptive T-cell transfer therapies.
Impact:
- Early detection and intervention strategies, including immunosuppression reduction, are improving PyVAN outcomes.
- Monitoring BKV-specific T-cell immunity aids in managing PyVAN.
- Adoptive T-cell transfer using BKV-specific T cells represents a promising innovative treatment for PyVAN.
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