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Updated: May 11, 2026
Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Infection and Detection
Published on: February 7, 2019
Serological cross-reactivity between human polyomaviruses
Ugo Moens1, Marijke Van Ghelue, Xiaobo Song
1University of Tromsø, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Biology, Tromsø, Norway. ugo.moens@uit.no
Abstract:
Until 2006, BKPyV and JCPyV were the only known human polyomaviruses. A third polyomavirus, simian virus 40 whose natural host is the macaque was accidently introduced into man because of contaminated poliovirus vaccines, although there is epidemiological evidence that SV40 may be transmitted between man independently from contaminated vaccines. Since 2007, 10 new human polyomaviruses have been identified: KIPyV, WUPyV, Merkel cell polyomavirus, trichodysplasia spinulosa-associated polyomavirus, and human polyomaviruses 6, 7, 9, 10, STL, and 12. Moreover, the DNA of the monkey lymphotropic polyomavirus has been amplified from human peripheral blood. Seroepidemiological studies frequently based on the presence of antibodies against the major capsid protein VP1 or virus-like particles indicate that most human adults have been exposed to many, if not all, human polyomaviruses. However, because of the high amino acid sequence identity between VP1 of some human polyomaviruses, cross-reactivity of antibodies is occasionally observed. In addition, human sera possess reactivity against VP1 of polyomaviruses from other species, suggesting serological cross-reaction with known or closely related, yet unidentified human polyomaviruses and/or the possibility of zoonotic transmission. Thus, current serological results should be interpreted with caution, and controls excluding cross-reactivity with other polyomaviruses are required.
Insights
Most adults are exposed to numerous human polyomaviruses, including newly discovered types. Antibody cross-reactivity in serological studies requires careful interpretation due to viral similarities and potential zoonotic transmission.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Human polyomaviruses (PyVs) were initially limited to BKPyV and JCPyV until 2006.
- Simian virus 40 (SV40) introduction into humans via vaccines and potential independent transmission are noted.
- Since 2007, a significant expansion of identified human polyomaviruses has occurred, including KIPyV, WUPyV, and others.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the expanding landscape of human polyomaviruses.
- To discuss serological findings and their interpretation in light of cross-reactivity.
- To highlight the implications for understanding human polyomavirus exposure and transmission.
Main Methods:
- Review of seroepidemiological studies focusing on antibodies against the major capsid protein VP1.
- Analysis of antibody cross-reactivity patterns among different human and simian polyomaviruses.
- Consideration of potential zoonotic transmission routes.
Main Results:
- Most adults exhibit serological evidence of exposure to multiple human polyomaviruses.
- High sequence identity in VP1 leads to antibody cross-reactivity, complicating serological interpretations.
- Human sera show reactivity against non-human polyomaviruses, suggesting cross-reaction or zoonotic origins.
Conclusions:
- Current serological data for human polyomaviruses must be interpreted cautiously.
- Further research is needed to differentiate specific human polyomavirus infections from cross-reactive responses.
- The possibility of zoonotic transmission warrants continued investigation.
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