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[Human polyomaviruses]

Miroslav Fajfr1, Vlasta Štěpánová, Lenka Plíšková

  • 1Institute of Clinical microbiology, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Hradec Kralove Czech Republic,

Klinicka Mikrobiologie a Infekcni Lekarstvi
|February 18, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Human polyomaviruses, including JC and BK viruses, are increasingly recognized beyond their roles as pathogens. Recent discoveries reveal new human polyomaviruses, some linked to diseases and others part of the normal microbiome.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Polyomaviruses are a viral family with significant recent research interest.
  • For 35 years, JC and BK viruses were the only known human polyomaviruses, primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.
  • The discovery of WU and KI polyomaviruses in 2007 marked a turning point, initiating the identification of numerous other human strains.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize current knowledge on all identified human polyomaviruses.
  • To provide basic information on the characteristics and associations of these viruses.
  • To highlight the evolving understanding of polyomavirus diversity and impact.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific publications on human polyomaviruses.
  • Compilation of data on identified polyomavirus strains, their discovery dates, and associated conditions.
  • Synthesis of information regarding pathogenicity and microbiome association.

Main Results:

  • Since 2007, multiple new human polyomaviruses have been discovered, expanding the known viral family.
  • Some newly identified polyomaviruses are associated with specific diseases, such as Merkel cell carcinoma.
  • Other polyomaviruses appear to be commensal, existing as part of the normal human skin and mucosal microbiome.

Conclusions:

  • The landscape of human polyomaviruses is far more diverse than previously understood.
  • Ongoing research is crucial to determine the pathogenicity and clinical significance of newly discovered polyomaviruses.
  • Human polyomaviruses represent a complex group with roles ranging from disease causation to symbiotic existence within the human microbiome.

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