BK polyomavirus genotype IV isolates from virus-specific T-cell therapy recipients

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Transplantation

Background:

• BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) is a significant cause of disease in transplant recipients.
• Virus-specific T-cell (VST) therapy is a promising treatment for BKPyV infections.
• Genetic variations in BKPyV can influence viral replication and host immune responses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the near full-length genome sequences of BKPyV from transplant recipients undergoing VST therapy.
• To identify the specific genotype of BKPyV isolated in these cases.

Main Methods:

• Whole genome sequencing of BKPyV from patient samples.
• Bioinformatic analysis of viral genome sequences.

Main Results:

• Near full-length BKPyV genome sequences were obtained from two VST recipients.
• The isolated BKPyV strains were identified as belonging to genotype IV.

Conclusions:

• The study presents novel BKPyV genome sequences from VST recipients.
• Identification of BKPyV genotype IV in these cases contributes to understanding viral diversity and its impact on VST therapy outcomes.