Particulate matter exposure increases JC polyomavirus replication in the human host.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Human polyomaviruses (HPyVs) establish latent infections, with potential for reactivation and urinary shedding under immune compromise.
• Particulate air pollution (PM₁₀/PM_2.5) poses a significant public health risk, but its link to viral replication remains understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between exposure to PM₁₀/PM_2.5 and the presence and load of HPyVs in urine (viruria).

Main Methods:

• 50 healthy adults provided urine samples for HPyV load determination (JCPyV, BKPyV, MCPyV, HPyV6, HPyV7, HPyV9).
• Individual daily exposure to PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 was estimated using a chemical transport model and monitoring station data.
• Zero-inflated negative binomial regression was employed to analyze viral load data, accounting for excessive zeros.

Main Results:

• HPyV DNA was detected in 54% of urine samples, with JCPyV being the most prevalent (48%).
• Increased JCPyV viral load was significantly associated with higher PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 levels measured 2 days prior to urine collection.
• Higher PM₁₀ levels 5 days before urine collection were linked to an increased probability of JCPyV detection (zero-part of the model).

Conclusions:

• Environmental PM₁₀/PM_2.5 exposure is associated with increased JCPyV viruria.
• Findings underscore the need for further research into the influence of air pollution on viral reactivation and shedding risks.