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Updated: Jan 30, 2026

Multifocal Electroretinograms
Published on: December 4, 2011
[Progress on pathogenesis of progressive multifocal leukoence-phalopathy]
1Department of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China.
Abstract:
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare and lethal central nervous demyelinating disease caused by JC polyomavirus (JCV), particularly in patients with impaired immune system. The variation of JCV plays an important role in the pathogenesis of PML, including the recombination of non-coding regulatory region (NCCR), which is closely related to binding sites of transcription factors and affect the level of gene transcription. Nucleotide mutations in VP1 region determine the antigenicity and receptor specificity of JCV, play an important role in cell adsorption, immune-mediation and pathogenicity. In addition, immune cells are also involved in the pathogenesis of PML. T lymphocytes can recognize virus antigens, clear JCV, which are directly related to the prognosis of PML. B lymphocytes can serve as latent sites of JCV, and participate in viral transmission, replication, and coordination of the expression of transcription factors. This paper summarizes the roles of JCV variation and immune cells in pathogenesis of PML.
Insights
JC polyomavirus (JCV) variations and immune cell roles are key in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) pathogenesis. Understanding these factors is crucial for managing this severe neurological disease.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a fatal demyelinating disease of the central nervous system.
- PML is caused by the JC polyomavirus (JCV), particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the roles of JC polyomavirus (JCV) variation in PML pathogenesis.
- To elucidate the involvement of immune cells in the development of PML.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on JCV genetic variations.
- Analysis of the role of T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes in PML.
- Examination of JC polyomavirus (JCV) non-coding regulatory region (NCCR) and VP1 gene mutations.
Main Results:
- JC polyomavirus (JCV) genetic variations, including NCCR recombination and VP1 mutations, influence viral gene transcription, cell adsorption, and pathogenicity.
- T lymphocytes are critical for recognizing viral antigens and clearing JCV, impacting PML prognosis.
- B lymphocytes act as reservoirs for JCV, contributing to viral transmission, replication, and gene expression.
Conclusions:
- JC polyomavirus (JCV) variation significantly contributes to the pathogenesis of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).
- Immune cell dynamics, particularly T and B lymphocyte functions, are integral to PML development and disease outcome.
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