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Tang Y, Wang Z, Du D. Challenges and opportunities in research on BK virus infection after renal transplantation. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 141:112793. [PMID: 39146777 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Renal transplantation is one of the primary approaches for curing end-stage kidney disease. With advancements in immunosuppressive agents, the short-term and long-term survival rates of transplanted kidneys have significantly improved. However, infections associated with potent immunosuppression have remained a persistent challenge. Among them, BK virus (BKV) reactivation following renal transplantation leading to BK virus-associated nephropathy (BKVAN) is a major cause of graft dysfunction. However, we still face significant challenges in understanding the pathogenesis, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of BKVAN. These challenges include: 1. The mechanism of BKV reactivation under immunosuppressive conditions has not been well elucidated, leading to difficulties in breakthroughs in clinical research on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. 2. Lack of proper identification of high-risk individuals, and effective personalized clinical management strategies. 3.Lack of early and sensitive diagnostic markers. 4. Lack of direct and effective treatment options due to the absence of specific antiviral drugs. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current status and cutting-edge advancements in BKV-related research, providing new methods and perspectives to address future research challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukun Tang
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Zipei Wang
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Dunfeng Du
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China.
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Breyer I, Ptak L, Stoy D, Mandelbrot D, Parajuli S. Early clearance of BK polyomavirus-DNAemia among kidney transplant recipients may lead to better graft survival. Transpl Infect Dis 2024:e14371. [PMID: 39226142 DOI: 10.1111/tid.14371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION BK polyomavirus (BKPyV)-DNAemia is a common complication in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). The significance of achieving viral clearance at different time intervals is not well understood. METHODS All adult KTRs transplanted between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2017 who developed BKPyV-DNAemia were included. Outcomes were analyzed based on persistent clearance of BKPyV-DNAemia at 3-month intervals up to 2 years after initial detection, and for recipients with persistent BKPyV-DNAemia at last follow-up. Uncensored graft failure, death-censored graft failure (DCGF), and a composite outcome of DCGF or fall in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) by ≥50% from the time of initial BKPyV-DNAemia were outcomes of interest. RESULTS Of 224 KTRs with BKPyV-DNAemia, 58 recipients (26%) achieved viral clearance by 3 months after initial detection, 105 (47%) by 6 months, 120 (54%) by 9 months, 141 (63%) by 12 months, 155 (69%) by 15 months, 167 (75%) by 18 months, 180 (80%) by 21 months, and 193 (86%) by 24 months. Nine recipients (4%) had persistent BKPyV-DNAemia at last follow-up. Compared to recipients who achieved viral clearance by 3 months, those who achieved clearance by 6 months (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.15; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22-8.12; p = .02) and 9 months (aOR: 3.69; 95% CI: 1.02-13.43; p = .04) had significantly increased risk for uncensored graft failure. There was no significant association between time to viral clearance and DCGF or composite outcomes. CONCLUSIONS We found a trend of increased risk for uncensored graft failure among those who cleared BKPyV-DNAemia more slowly. Aiming to clear viremia early, without risking rejection, may be beneficial for allograft function and patient morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Breyer
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Lucy Ptak
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - David Stoy
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Didier Mandelbrot
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Sandesh Parajuli
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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3
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Al-Talib M, Dimonte S, Humphreys IR. Mucosal T-cell responses to chronic viral infections: Implications for vaccine design. Cell Mol Immunol 2024; 21:982-998. [PMID: 38459243 PMCID: PMC11364786 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-024-01140-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Mucosal surfaces that line the respiratory, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts are the major interfaces between the immune system and the environment. Their unique immunological landscape is characterized by the necessity of balancing tolerance to commensal microorganisms and other innocuous exposures against protection from pathogenic threats such as viruses. Numerous pathogenic viruses, including herpesviruses and retroviruses, exploit this environment to establish chronic infection. Effector and regulatory T-cell populations, including effector and resident memory T cells, play instrumental roles in mediating the transition from acute to chronic infection, where a degree of viral replication is tolerated to minimize immunopathology. Persistent antigen exposure during chronic viral infection leads to the evolution and divergence of these responses. In this review, we discuss advances in the understanding of mucosal T-cell immunity during chronic viral infections and how features of T-cell responses develop in different chronic viral infections of the mucosa. We consider how insights into T-cell immunity at mucosal surfaces could inform vaccine strategies: not only to protect hosts from chronic viral infections but also to exploit viruses that can persist within mucosal surfaces as vaccine vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Talib
- Systems Immunity University Research Institute/Division of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, 5 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1UD, UK
| | - Sandra Dimonte
- Systems Immunity University Research Institute/Division of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Ian R Humphreys
- Systems Immunity University Research Institute/Division of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK.
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Sanlidag E, Arikan A, Sayan M. Comparative performance evaluation of random access and real-time PCR techniques in the diagnosis of BK virus infections in transplant patients. Indian J Med Microbiol 2024; 51:100687. [PMID: 39074768 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmmb.2024.100687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aims to compare random-access NeuMoDx values with artus qPCR values to validate the accuracy of NeuMoDx as an alternative to qPCR and provide an equation to convert copies/ml to IU/ml measurements. METHODS A total of 95 samples, including 61 transplant patient samples (n = 23 urine, n = 38 plasma) as the study group, 28 BKPyV-free samples as the control group, and six quality control samples, were included. One-Way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, Bland-Altman, Passing-Bablok, Deming regression analyses were used for statistical evaluation. RESULTS Of 95 samples, 46 (48 %) were positive with NeuMoDx, while 40 (42 %) were positive with artus qPCR. Both techniques were statistically similar (p > 0.05). Deming correlation analysis (r = 0.9590), Passing Bablok and Bland Altman analyses demonstrated a strong correlation between NeuMoDx and artus values. The equation that provides the conversion between NeuMoDx and artus qPCR values was NeuMoDx= (1.12965 x artus qPCR) - 0.55016. BKPyV infections remain a concern for transplant patients globally, and effective new diagnostic methods are required. CONCLUSIONS Consistency between the results of NeuMoDx and qPCR confirms that NeuMoDx may be a valuable alternative for detecting BKPyV to prevent viral propagation. Our findings may allow converting copy/ml results to IU/ml for diagnosing and monitoring BKPyV infections in transplant patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erdal Sanlidag
- Near East University, DESAM Research Institute, Nicosia, 99138, Mersin 10, Turkey.
| | - Ayse Arikan
- Near East University, DESAM Research Institute, Nicosia, 99138, Mersin 10, Turkey; Near East University, Department of Medical Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Mersin 10, Turkey; Kyrenia University, Department of Medical Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Kyrenia, 99320, Mersin 10, Turkey.
| | - Murat Sayan
- Near East University, DESAM Research Institute, Nicosia, 99138, Mersin 10, Turkey; Kocaeli University, Research and Education Hospital, PCR Unit, Kocaeli, Turkey.
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Haq K, Yadav A, Mejia C. Approach to Kidney Allograft Dysfunction: A Brief Review. ADVANCES IN KIDNEY DISEASE AND HEALTH 2024; 31:416-426. [PMID: 39232612 DOI: 10.1053/j.akdh.2024.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
It is important for providers caring for kidney transplant recipients to be familiar with the common causes of allograft dysfunction. Early detection of allograft dysfunction leads to timely management, with the goal of preventing or delaying progression to allograft failure. Although transplant rejection is always a concern, the differential diagnoses for allograft dysfunction are broad and include perioperative complications, infections, recurrent disease, and calcineurin nephrotoxicity. In this review, we will go over early and late causes of allograft dysfunction and discuss the basic workup and principles of management for each condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanza Haq
- Division of Nephrology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Anju Yadav
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Christina Mejia
- Division of Nephrology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD.
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Butic AB, Katz ZE, Jin G, Fukushima K, Hazama M, Lukacher AE, Lauver MD. Brincidofovir inhibits polyomavirus infection in vivo. mBio 2024; 15:e0104924. [PMID: 38953354 PMCID: PMC11323531 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01049-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyomaviruses are species-specific DNA viruses that can cause disease in immunocompromised individuals. Despite their role as the causative agents for several diseases, there are no currently approved antivirals for treating polyomavirus infection. Brincidofovir (BCV) is an antiviral approved for the treatment of poxvirus infections and has shown activity against other double-stranded DNA viruses. In this study, we tested the efficacy of BCV against polyomavirus infection in vitro and in vivo using mouse polyomavirus (MuPyV). BCV inhibited virus production in primary mouse kidney cells and brain cortical cells. BCV treatment of cells transfected with MuPyV genomic DNA resulted in a reduction in virus levels, indicating that viral inhibition occurs post-entry. Although in vitro BCV treatment had a limited effect on viral DNA and RNA levels, drug treatment was associated with a reduction in viral protein, raising the possibility that BCV acts post-transcriptionally to inhibit MuPyV infection. In mice, BCV treatment was well tolerated, and prophylactic treatment resulted in a reduction in viral DNA levels and a potent suppression of infectious virus production in the kidney and brain. In mice with chronic polyomavirus infection, therapeutic administration of BCV decreased viremia and reduced infection in the kidney. These data demonstrate that BCV exerts antiviral activity against polyomavirus infection in vivo, supporting further investigation into the use of BCV to treat clinical polyomavirus infections. IMPORTANCE Widespread in the human population and able to persist asymptomatically for the life of an individual, polyomavirus infections cause a significant disease burden in the immunocompromised. Individuals undergoing immune suppression, such as kidney transplant patients or those treated for autoimmune diseases, are particularly at high risk for polyomavirus-associated diseases. Because no antiviral agent exists for treating polyomavirus infections, management of polyomavirus-associated diseases typically involves reducing or discontinuing immunomodulatory therapy. This can be perilous due to the risk of transplant rejection and the potential development of adverse immune reactions. Thus, there is a pressing need for the development of antivirals targeting polyomaviruses. Here, we investigate the effects of brincidofovir, an FDA-approved antiviral, on polyomavirus infection in vivo using mouse polyomavirus. We show that the drug is well-tolerated in mice, reduces infectious viral titers, and limits viral pathology, indicating the potential of brincidofovir as an anti-polyomavirus therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arrienne B. Butic
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zoe E. Katz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ge Jin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Koji Fukushima
- SymBio Pharmaceuticals Limited, Toranomon, Minato, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Aron E. Lukacher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Matthew D. Lauver
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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García-Lopez A, De la Hoz CO, Girón-Luque F. Incidence and Outcomes of BK Virus Nephropathy in Kidney Transplant Recipients With Steroid-Free Maintenance Immunosuppression. Transplant Proc 2024; 56:1502-1508. [PMID: 38987023 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2024.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND BK virus nephropathy (BKVN) is a significant complication in kidney transplant recipients, resulting in graft dysfunction and potentially leading to graft loss. This study aims to investigate the incidence and outcomes of BKVN in kidney transplant recipients receiving steroid-free maintenance immunosuppression in a Latin -American cohort. METHODS Case series study of BKVN among kidney transplant recipients who underwent transplantation between 2008 and 2023. The primary outcome was graft loss caused by BKVN, excluding death with function. Secondary outcomes included graft function and acute rejection episodes. The statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics and the Kaplan-Meier (K-M) method to plot the overall probabilities of not initiating dialysis. RESULTS During the 15-year period, 2236 kidney transplants were performed, BKVN was histologically diagnosed in 38 kidney recipients and 33 cases were analyzed. Median age was 50 years and men were 48.5% of patients. A total of 45.4% of BKVN occurred within the first 12 months of transplant. The incidence of BKVN was 1.6% but it varied by era. The rate of graft loss was 75.7% (25 cases). The K-M graft survival probability at 6 months and 12 months after diagnosis of BKVN was 38.3% (95% CI 24.7-59.4) and 22.3% (95% CI 11.7-42.8), respectively. CONCLUSION BKVN affected 1.6% of transplant recipients and it was associated with high-rate of graft loss. We observed that significant graft disfunction at the time of diagnosis resulted in worse outcomes with a reduced probability of graft survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea García-Lopez
- Department of Transplant Research, Colombiana de Trasplantes, Bogota, Colombia.
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Hinze C, Lovric S, Halloran PF, Barasch J, Schmidt-Ott KM. Epithelial cell states associated with kidney and allograft injury. Nat Rev Nephrol 2024; 20:447-459. [PMID: 38632381 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-024-00834-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The kidney epithelium, with its intricate arrangement of highly specialized cell types, constitutes the functional core of the organ. Loss of kidney epithelium is linked to the loss of functional nephrons and a subsequent decline in kidney function. In kidney transplantation, epithelial injury signatures observed during post-transplantation surveillance are strong predictors of adverse kidney allograft outcomes. However, epithelial injury is currently neither monitored clinically nor addressed therapeutically after kidney transplantation. Several factors can contribute to allograft epithelial injury, including allograft rejection, drug toxicity, recurrent infections and postrenal obstruction. The injury mechanisms that underlie allograft injury overlap partially with those associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the native kidney. Studies using advanced transcriptomic analyses of single cells from kidney or urine have identified a role for kidney injury-induced epithelial cell states in exacerbating and sustaining damage in AKI and CKD. These epithelial cell states and their associated expression signatures are also observed in transplanted kidney allografts, suggesting that the identification and characterization of transcriptomic epithelial cell states in kidney allografts may have potential clinical implications for diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Hinze
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Svjetlana Lovric
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Philip F Halloran
- Alberta Transplant Applied Genomics Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Transplant Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jonathan Barasch
- Division of Nephrology, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Kai M Schmidt-Ott
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
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Eichenberger EM, Magua W, Rickert JB, Karadkhele G, Fallahzadeh MK, Vasanth P, Larsen C. Belatacept-based immunosuppression does not confer increased risk of BK polyomavirus-DNAemia relative to tacrolimus-based immunosuppression. Transpl Infect Dis 2024:e14298. [PMID: 38946227 DOI: 10.1111/tid.14298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of belatacept on BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) control remains largely unknown. METHODS This is a propensity matched retrospective cohort study in adult kidney transplant recipients (KTR) transplanted between 2016-2020 who received a belatacept- versus tacrolimus-based immunosuppression regimen. A continuous time multi-state Markov model was used to evaluate BKPyV replication dynamics (BKPyV-dyn). Three BKPyV-dyn states were defined: BKPyV-dyn1 (viral load <3 log10), BKPyV-dyn2 (viral load ≥ 3 log10 and ≤4 log10), and BKPyV-dyn3 (viral load >4 log10). RESULTS Two hundred eighty KTR on belatacept- and 280 KTR on tacrolimus-based regimens were compared. The probability of transitioning between BKPyV-dyn states and time spent in each state in both groups was comparable. Total duration in BKPyV-dyn-1 was 632.1 days (95% CI 612.1, 648.5) for belatacept versus 615.2 days (95% CI 592.5, 635.8) for tacrolimus, BKPyV-dyn-2 was 49.2 days (95% CI 41.3, 58.4) for belatacept versus 55.6 days (95% CI 46.5, 66.8) for tacrolimus, and BKPyV-dyn-3 was 48.7 days (95% CI 37.1, 363.1) for belatacept versus 59.2 days (95% CI 45.8, 73.5) for tacrolimus. BKPyV associated nephropathy (PyVAN) occurred in 3.9% in belatacept- and 3.9% tacrolimus-treated KRT (P > .9). CONCLUSIONS Compared with tacrolimus-based immunosuppression, belatacept based immunosuppression was not associated with increased risk of BKPyV-DNAemia or nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Eichenberger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Wairimu Magua
- Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | | | - Payaswini Vasanth
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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McAteer J, Tamma PD. Diagnosing and Managing Urinary Tract Infections in Kidney Transplant Recipients. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2024; 38:361-380. [PMID: 38729666 PMCID: PMC11090456 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2024.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
In the article, the authors review antibiotic treatment options for both acute uncomplicated UTI and complicated UTI. In addition, they review alternative regimens which are needed in the setting of drug-resistant pathogens including vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, -extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E), carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales, and carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas, which are encountered with more frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- John McAteer
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Pranita D Tamma
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Ximenes C, Cabral D, Cavalcanti F. Intravenous Human Immunoglobulin in the Treatment of BK Virus Nephropathy in Kidney Transplant: A Case Report. Transplant Proc 2024; 56:1052-1054. [PMID: 38777712 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The BK virus infection is common in the immunocompetent population and is asymptomatic in the majority of cases. However, in renal transplant patients, reactivation and replication can occur, leading to the development of BK virus-associated nephropathy (BKVN), which is associated with renal injury and graft loss. The objective of this case report was to demonstrate a case of BKVN that showed a good response to the use of human immunoglobulin. A 37-year-old man who underwent a second transplant received rabbit-derived antithymocyte human immunoglobulin at a dose of 6 mg/kg intravenously as induction immunosuppressive therapy, and maintenance therapy with tacrolimus, prednisone, and mycophenolate sodium (MFS). At 3 months post-transplant, he presented sustained BK virus viremia (70,000-100,000 copies/mL), leading to a reduction in the dose of MFS and tacrolimus. A biopsy diagnosed BKVN class 2/B2, and viremia increased to over 1 million copies/mL at 22 months, prompting the discontinuation of tacrolimus without response. Intravenous human immunoglobulin (IVIG) was administered at 2 g/kg at 22 months and again at 33 months, with viremia peaking at 2 million copies 3 months later. However, it steadily declined to 5500 copies/mL at 52 months post-transplant. Currently, the only proven therapy for BKVN is the reduction of immunosuppression. However, in patients who do not respond, IVIG is considered as an option, with good results demonstrated in case reports, as shown here. Nevertheless, the data are based on case reports or case series, and the development of controlled clinical trials is necessary for confirmation of the efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Ximenes
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, Royal Charitable Portuguese Hospital of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil.
| | - Diogo Cabral
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, Royal Charitable Portuguese Hospital of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Frederico Cavalcanti
- Department of Kidney Transplantation, Royal Charitable Portuguese Hospital of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
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12
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Brochot E, Demey B, Aubry A, Descamps V, Morel V, Presne C, Brazier F, Helle F. Epidemiology and Dynamics of BK Polyomavirus Replication after Kidney Transplantation. Pathogens 2024; 13:315. [PMID: 38668270 PMCID: PMC11053930 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13040315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES In the absence of an effective antiviral treatment for BK polyomavirus (BKPyV), a better understanding of the epidemiology and time course of BKPyV replication after kidney transplantation is needed to limit the virus's impact on the graft outcome. METHODS In a 7-year study, we screened more than 430 kidney transplant recipients and analyzed the time course and virological characteristics of BKPyV replication. RESULTS Urinary viral replication was observed in 116 (27%) of the 430 patients, and 90 of the 116 (78%) had viral DNAemia. Thirty-eight patients (8.8%) were presumed to have nephropathy (DNAemia > 4 log10 copies/mL). Of the patients with BKPyV replication, 48%, 60%, 71%, and 80% were first found to be positive one, two, three, and four months post-transplantation. The initial viral load in the urine was below 7 log10 copies/mL in 100% of the patients with viral replication first detected before the first month, and this proportion was 57% when viral replication was first detected after the first month. When the BKPyV replication was first detected in a urine sample at month 3 or later, 81.5% of patients had concomitant BKPyV DNAemia. The predominant viral subtype was Ib2 (60%), and there was no apparent relationship between the subtype and the time course of BKPyV replication. CONCLUSIONS Urinary BKPyV replication occurs early after renal transplantation and in most patients will increase to a level requiring therapeutic intervention. Close monitoring for BKPyV in the early post-transplantation period would enable the pre-emptive adjustment of the immunosuppression regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etienne Brochot
- Department of Virology, Amiens University Medical Center, 80054 Amiens, France; (B.D.); (A.A.)
- Agents Infectieux Résistance et Chimiothérapie Research Unit, UR4294, Jules Verne University of Picardie, 80054 Amiens, France; (V.D.); (V.M.); (F.H.)
| | - Baptiste Demey
- Department of Virology, Amiens University Medical Center, 80054 Amiens, France; (B.D.); (A.A.)
- Agents Infectieux Résistance et Chimiothérapie Research Unit, UR4294, Jules Verne University of Picardie, 80054 Amiens, France; (V.D.); (V.M.); (F.H.)
| | - Aurélien Aubry
- Department of Virology, Amiens University Medical Center, 80054 Amiens, France; (B.D.); (A.A.)
- Agents Infectieux Résistance et Chimiothérapie Research Unit, UR4294, Jules Verne University of Picardie, 80054 Amiens, France; (V.D.); (V.M.); (F.H.)
| | - Véronique Descamps
- Agents Infectieux Résistance et Chimiothérapie Research Unit, UR4294, Jules Verne University of Picardie, 80054 Amiens, France; (V.D.); (V.M.); (F.H.)
| | - Virginie Morel
- Agents Infectieux Résistance et Chimiothérapie Research Unit, UR4294, Jules Verne University of Picardie, 80054 Amiens, France; (V.D.); (V.M.); (F.H.)
| | - Claire Presne
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Amiens University Medical Center, 80054 Amiens, France; (C.P.); (F.B.)
| | - François Brazier
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, Amiens University Medical Center, 80054 Amiens, France; (C.P.); (F.B.)
| | - François Helle
- Agents Infectieux Résistance et Chimiothérapie Research Unit, UR4294, Jules Verne University of Picardie, 80054 Amiens, France; (V.D.); (V.M.); (F.H.)
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de Sousa MV. Post-Transplant Glomerulonephritis: Challenges and Solutions. Int J Nephrol Renovasc Dis 2024; 17:81-90. [PMID: 38495741 PMCID: PMC10944656 DOI: 10.2147/ijnrd.s391779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Glomeruli can be damaged in several conditions after kidney transplantation, with a potential impact on the graft function and survival. Primary glomerulonephritis, a group of glomerular immunological damage that results in variable histological patterns and clinical phenotypes, can occur in kidney transplant recipients as a recurrent or de novo condition. Specific immunologic conditions associated with kidney transplantation, such as acute rejection episodes, can act as an additional trigger after transplantation, impacting the incidence of these glomerulopathies. The post-transplant GN recurrence ranges from 3% to 15%, varying according to the GN subtype and post-transplant time, mainly occurring after 3-5 years of kidney transplantation. Advances in the knowledge of glomerulonephritis pathophysiology have provided new approaches to pre-transplant risk evaluation and post-transplant monitoring. Glomeruli can be affected by several systemic viral infections, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and BK virus. The diagnosis of these infections, as well as the identification of possible complications associated with them, are important to minimize the negative impacts of these conditions on kidney transplant recipients' outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Vinicius de Sousa
- University of Campinas, School of Medical Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Renal Transplant Unit, Transplant Research Laboratory, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Lorant C, Zigmantaviciute J, Ali N, Bonnevier U, Tejde M, von Zur-Mühlen B, Eriksson BM, Bergqvist A, Westman G. The risk factors associated with post-transplantation BKPyV nephropathy and BKPyV DNAemia: a prospective study in kidney transplant recipients. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:245. [PMID: 38388351 PMCID: PMC10885533 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09093-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) infection after kidney transplantation can lead to serious complications such as BKPyV-associated nephropathy (BKPyVAN) and graft loss. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of BKPyVAN after implementing a BKPyV screening program, to map the distribution of BKPyV genotypes and subtypes in the Uppsala-Örebro region and to identify host and viral risk factors for clinically significant events. METHODS This single-center prospective cohort study included kidney transplant patients aged ≥ 18 years at the Uppsala University Hospital in Sweden between 2016 and 2018. BKPyV DNA was analyzed in plasma and urine every 3 months until 18 months after transplantation. Also genotype and subtype were determined. A logistic regression model was used to analyze selected risk factors including recipient sex and age, AB0 incompatibility and rejection treatment prior to BKPyVAN or high-level BKPyV DNAemia. RESULTS In total, 205 patients were included. Of these, 151 (73.7%) followed the screening protocol with 6 plasma samples, while184 (89.8%) were sampled at least 5 times. Ten (4.9%) patients developed biopsy confirmed BKPyVAN and 33 (16.1%) patients met criteria for high-level BKPyV DNAemia. Male sex (OR 2.85, p = 0.025) and age (OR 1.03 per year, p = 0.020) were identified as significant risk factors for developing BKPyVAN or high-level BKPyV DNAemia. BKPyVAN was associated with increased viral load at 3 months post transplantation (82,000 vs. < 400 copies/mL; p = 0.0029) and with transient, high-level DNAemia (n = 7 (27%); p < 0.0001). The most common genotypes were subtype Ib2 (n = 50 (65.8%)) and IVc2 (n = 20 (26.3%)). CONCLUSIONS Male sex and increasing age are related to an increased risk of BKPyVAN or high-level BKPyV DNAemia. BKPyVAN is associated with transient, high-level DNAemia but no differences related to viral genotype were detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Lorant
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Justina Zigmantaviciute
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Clinical Microbiology and Infection Control, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Naima Ali
- Clinical Microbiology and Infection Control, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Mattias Tejde
- Department of Nephrology, Falun Hospital, Falun, Sweden
| | - Bengt von Zur-Mühlen
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Section of Transplantation Surgery, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Britt-Marie Eriksson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Bergqvist
- Department of Medical Sciences, Clinical Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Clinical Microbiology and Infection Control, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gabriel Westman
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
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15
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Parajuli S, Aziz F, Zhong W, Djamali A. BK polyomavirus infection: more than 50 years and still a threat to kidney transplant recipients. FRONTIERS IN TRANSPLANTATION 2024; 3:1309927. [PMID: 38993764 PMCID: PMC11235301 DOI: 10.3389/frtra.2024.1309927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) is a ubiquitous human polyomavirus and a major infection after kidney transplantation, primarily due to immunosuppression. BKPyV reactivation can manifest as viruria in 30%-40%, viremia in 10%-20%, and BK polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (BKPyVAN) in 1%-10% of recipients. BKPyVAN is an important cause of kidney graft failure. Although the first case of BKPyV was identified in 1971, progress in its management has been limited. Specifically, there is no safe and effective antiviral agent or vaccine to treat or prevent the infection. Even in the current era, the mainstay approach to BKPyV is a reduction in immunosuppression, which is also limited by safety (risk of de novo donor specific antibody and rejection) and efficacy (graft failure). However, recently BKPyV has been getting more attention in the field, and some new treatment strategies including the utilization of viral-specific T-cell therapy are emerging. Given all these challenges, the primary focus of this article is complications associated with BKPyV, as well as strategies to mitigate negative outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandesh Parajuli
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Fahad Aziz
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Weixiong Zhong
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Arjang Djamali
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center Maine Health, Portland, ME, United States
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16
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Pollack S, Plonsky-Toder M, Tibi R, Yakubov R, Libinson-Zebegret I, Magen D. Protocolized polyoma BK viral load monitoring and high-dose immunoglobulin treatment in children after kidney transplant. Clin Kidney J 2024; 17:sfad293. [PMID: 38213487 PMCID: PMC10783260 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfad293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background BKPyV virus nephropathy (BKPyVAN) is diagnosed in 5%-16% of pediatric renal transplant recipients (PRTR) and preceded by BKPyV-viruria and DNAemia. Despite the risk of irreversible transplant damage associated with BKPyVAN, evidence-based consensus guidelines for BKPyVAN prevention are still lacking. In this retrospective study, we examined the safety and efficacy of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (HD-IVIG) therapy for prevention of BKPyVAN in PRTR with significant BKPyV-viruria/DNAemia. Methods Between January 2013 and December 2022, all PRTR under our care underwent routine urine and blood testing for BKPyV viral load, using specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR). BKPyV DNAemia, with <103 copies/mL, with BKPyV viruria <107 copies/mL, with no evidence of BKPyVAN, were managed with 50% dose reduction of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). Patients showing no decline in BKPyV viral load within two months of MMF dose reduction were managed with HD-IVIG (2 g/kg). Results Seventy patients were recruited during a ten-year period and 31/70 patients (44%) demonstrated significant post-transplantation BKPyV-viruria/DNAemia, while 13/31 (42%) patients were unresponsive to MMF dose reduction, and were administered HD-IVIG. Of these, 12/13 (92%) patients achieved BKPyV viral clearance within six months from completion of HD-IVIG therapy and 1/13 patient (8%) was unresponsive to HD-IVIG therapy, showing increased BKPyV viral load. There were no major adverse events associated with HD-IVIG, and none of our patients developed BKPyVAN during the study period. Conclusions Prophylactic HD-IVIG therapy in PRTR with significant BKPyV-viruria/DNAemia unresponsive to MMF dose reduction is safe and might be effective in preventing BKPyVAN. Our findings remain to be established by large-scale prospective studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Pollack
- Pediatric Nephrology Institute, Ruth Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Technion Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Moran Plonsky-Toder
- Pediatric Nephrology Institute, Ruth Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Technion Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Rami Tibi
- Pediatric Nephrology Institute, Ruth Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Technion Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Renata Yakubov
- Pediatric Nephrology Institute, Ruth Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Technion Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Irina Libinson-Zebegret
- Pediatric Nephrology Institute, Ruth Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Technion Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Daniella Magen
- Pediatric Nephrology Institute, Ruth Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Technion Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
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Zhong C, Chen J, Yan Z, Xia R, Zeng W, Deng W, Xu J, Wang Y, Miao Y. Therapeutic strategies against BK polyomavirus infection in kidney transplant recipients: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Transpl Immunol 2023; 81:101953. [PMID: 37931665 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2023.101953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The selection of antiviral therapy for BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) infection has been extensively debated. Our study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of various treatments for BKPyV infection. METHODS We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases for relevant studies regarding drug treatments for BKPyV viremia/DNAemia published between January 1, 1970 and September 30, 2022. Two independent authors screened the published studies, extracted pertinent data, and evaluated their methodological quality. A meta-analysis was performed using the RevMan software version 4.2.2. RESULTS A total of 33 published studies involving 986 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, therapeutic interventions comprised immunosuppression reduction alone or in combination with leflunomide, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), cidofovir, or mTOR inhibitor (mTORi) therapy. The meta-analysis revealed that the efficacy of immunosuppression reduction alone for serum BKPyV clearance was 68% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.58-0.77; I2 = 78%). Moreover, the efficacy of immunosuppression reduction in combination with leflunomide, cidofovir, IVIG, or mTORi therapy for serum BKPyV clearance was 61% (95% CI: 0.47-0.74; I2 = 83%), 71% (95% CI: 0.63-0.78; I2 = 0), 87% (95% CI: 0.82-0.93; I2 = 45%), and 80% (95% CI: 0.59-1.00; I2 = 58%), respectively. Compared to immunosuppression reduction alone, immunosuppression reduction combined with IVIG therapy offered a statistically significant benefit in serum BKPyV clearance (P < 0.01) with minimal adverse reactions, whereas other adjunctive drug treatments did not demonstrate considerable effects. CONCLUSIONS Reducing immunosuppression remains the primary approach for treating BKPyV infection. Although the combination treatment with IVIG proved to be most effective, other agents might offer varied antiviral advantages of high heterogeneity, which should be substantiated in future long-term randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuiyu Zhong
- Department of Transplantation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jiayi Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health (Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ziyan Yan
- Department of Transplantation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Renfei Xia
- Department of Transplantation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wenli Zeng
- Department of Transplantation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wenfeng Deng
- Department of Transplantation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Transplantation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yuchen Wang
- Department of Transplantation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Yun Miao
- Department of Transplantation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
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Foroudi MR, Yaghobi R, Afshari A, Roozbeh J, Miresmaeili SM, Javid A. The effect of the BK polyomavirus large T antigen on the function and maturity of the CD4 + T cell subsets in kidney transplant recipients. Transpl Immunol 2023; 80:101884. [PMID: 37422092 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2023.101884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) who are immunosuppressed, human BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) infection can be reactivated, resulting in BKPyV-associated nephropathy (BKPyVN). Considering that BKPyV inhibits CD4+ T cell differentiation, we investigated the effect of BKPyV large T antigen (LT-Ag) on the maturation of CD4+ T cell subsets during active BKPyV infection. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we examined the following groups: 1) five KTRs with active viral infection (BKPyV+ KTRs), 2) five KTRs without active viral infection (BKPyV-KTRs), and 3) five healthy controls. We measured the frequency of CD4+ T cells and their different subsets, such as naive T cells, central memory T cells (Tcm), and effector memory T cells (Tem). All these subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) stimulated with the overlapping BKPyV LT-Ag peptide pool. In addition, CD4+ T cell subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry for the presence of CD4, CCR7, CD45RO, CD107a, and granzyme B (GB). In addition, mRNA expression of transcription factors (TFs) such as T-bet, GATA-3, STAT-3, and STAT-6 was examined. The probability of inflammation with perforin protein was examined by SYBR Green real-time PCR. RESULTS After stimulation of PBMCs, naive T cells (CD4+CCR7+CD45RO-) (p = 0.9) and CD4+ T cells which release CD107a+ (CD4+CD107a+Geranzyme B-) (p = 0.9) T cells were more abundant in BKPyV+ KTRs than in BKPyV- KTRs. In contrast, central memory T cells (CD4+CCR7+CD45RO+) (p = 0.1) and effector memory T cells (CD4+CCR7-CD45RO+) (p = 0.1) were more abundant in BKPyV- KTRs than in BKPyV+ KTRs. The mRNA expression levels of T-bet, GATA-3, STAT-3, and STAT-6 were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in BKPyV- KTRs than in BKPyV+ KTRs which may be due to a higher differentiation level of CD4+ T cells. Due to inflammation, the mRNA expression level of perforin was higher in BKPyV+ KTRs, than in BKPyV- KTRs, but the difference was not significant (p = 0.175). CONCLUSIONS The high number of naive T cells after PBMC stimulation with the LT-Ag peptide pool was observed in BKPyV+ KTRs due to the interaction of LT-Ag with T cells. This means that BKPyV by using its LT-Ag can inhibit the naive T cell differentiation to other T cell subsets like central and effector memory T cells. However, the frequency of CD4+ T cell subsets and the combination of the activities of these cells with the expression profile of the target genes in this study may be efficient in treating and diagnosing BKPyV infections in kidney recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ramin Yaghobi
- Shiraz Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Afsoon Afshari
- Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jamshid Roozbeh
- Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Amaneh Javid
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Science and Arts University, Yazd, Iran
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Song J, Kim S, Kwak E, Park Y. Evaluating the Efficiency of the Cobas 6800 System for BK Virus Detection in Plasma and Urine Samples. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2860. [PMID: 37685397 PMCID: PMC10487002 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13172860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the overall performance of the Cobas 6800 BKV test in detecting BK virus (BKV). We examined the imprecision of the Cobas 6800 BKV test and compared the qualitative and quantitative results obtained from the Cobas 6800 BKV test and the Real-Q BKV quantification assay. We assessed 88 plasma and 26 urine samples collected between September and November 2022 from patients with BKV infection using the Real-Q BKV quantitative assay. The lognormal coefficient of variation indicated that the inter-assay precision of the Cobas 6800 BKV test ranged from 13.86 to 33.83%. A strong correlation was observed between the quantitative results obtained using the Cobas 6800 BKV test and the Real-Q BKV quantification assay for plasma samples. The Spearman's rank correlation coefficients (ρ) for plasma, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) media-stabilized urine, and raw urine samples were 0.939, 0.874, and 0.888, respectively. Our analyses suggest that the Cobas 6800 BKV test is suitable for clinical applications owing to the strong correlation between the results obtained using this test and the Real-Q BKV quantification assay in plasma and urine samples. Furthermore, utilizing fresh raw urine samples can be a viable approach for the Cobas 6800 BKV test as it is less labor- and time-intensive.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Younhee Park
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
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Mineeva-Sangwo O, Van Loon E, Andrei G, Kuypers D, Naesens M, Snoeck R. Time-dependent variations in BK polyomavirus genome from kidney transplant recipients with persistent viremia. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13534. [PMID: 37598256 PMCID: PMC10439958 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40714-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) is a human DNA virus that resides latent in the host's renal tissue. Reactivation occurs occasionally and in case of kidney transplantation, it can lead to polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PVAN). Due to the lack of specific antivirals for BKPyV and despite the risk of allograft rejection, reduction of immunosuppression remains the main approach for treating PVAN. Current data suggests that mutations can accumulate over time in the major capsid protein VP1 and can lead to neutralization escape in kidney transplant recipients. Herein, we show that mutations occur throughout the entire BKPyV genome, including in VP1. Changes were identified by per-patient comparison of viral genome sequences obtained in samples from 32 kidney recipients with persistent viremia collected at different post-transplant time-points. Amino acid changes were observed in both earlier and later post-transplant samples, although some of them were only found in later samples. Changes in VP1 mainly consisted in the introduction of a new amino acid. A switch back to the conservative amino acid was also observed. This should be considered in future approaches for treating BKPyV infection in kidney transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Mineeva-Sangwo
- Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Rega Institute, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elisabet Van Loon
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Graciela Andrei
- Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Rega Institute, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Dirk Kuypers
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten Naesens
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robert Snoeck
- Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Rega Institute, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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21
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Udomkarnjananun S, Iampenkhae K. Pathological Approach to Kidney Allograft Infection. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1902. [PMID: 37509541 PMCID: PMC10377023 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Infectious agents can pose a significant challenge in kidney transplantation, as they have the potential to cause direct infections in the transplanted kidney. These infections can lead to a decline in kidney function and reduce the longevity of the transplanted kidney. Common post-transplant allograft infections include bacterial pyelonephritis and the BK virus infection, while adenovirus, JC virus, and cytomegalovirus are less frequent but can also lead to significant allograft dysfunctions. The histopathological features of these infections are characterized by the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the kidney interstitial area and the presence of viral nuclear inclusions or cytopathic changes in the renal tubular epithelial cells. The confirmation of causative organisms can be achieved by immunohistochemical staining or the visualization of viral particles using electron microscopic examination. However, these methods typically require a longer turnaround time and are not readily available in developing countries, unlike standard hematoxylin-eosin staining. Notably, the differential diagnosis of interstitial inflammation in kidney allografts almost always includes T cell-mediated rejection, which has a different treatment approach than allograft infections. The aim of this review was to prompt clinicians to identify diverse pathological alterations as observed in kidney allograft biopsies, thereby facilitating further investigations and the management of suspected kidney allograft infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suwasin Udomkarnjananun
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn Univeristy and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Excellence Center for Organ Transplantation (ECOT), King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Renal Immunology and Transplantation Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Translational Research in Inflammation and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Kroonpong Iampenkhae
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Prezioso C, Pietropaolo V, Moens U, Ciotti M. JC polyomavirus: a short review of its biology, its association with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, and the diagnostic value of different methods to manifest its activity or presence. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2023; 23:143-157. [PMID: 36786077 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2023.2179394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION JC polyomavirus is the causative agent of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a demyelinating disease resulting from the lytic infection of oligodendrocytes that may develop in immunosuppressed individuals: HIV1 infected or individuals under immunosuppressive therapies. Understanding the biology of JCPyV is necessary for a proper patient management, the development of diagnostic tests, and risk stratification. AREAS COVERED The review covers different areas of expertise including the genomic characterization of JCPyV strains detected in different body compartments (urine, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid) of PML patients, viral mutations, molecular diagnostics, viral miRNAs, and disease. EXPERT OPINION The implementation of molecular biology techniques improved our understanding of JCPyV biology. Deep sequencing analysis of viral genomes revealed the presence of viral quasispecies in the cerebrospinal fluid of PML patients characterized by noncoding control region rearrangements and VP1 mutations. These neurotropic JCPyV variants present enhanced replication and an altered cell tropism that contribute to PML development. Monitoring these variants may be relevant for the identification of patients at risk of PML. Multiplex realtime PCR targeting both the LTAg and the archetype NCCR could be used to identify them. Failure to amplify NCCR should indicate the presence of a JCPyV prototype speeding up the diagnostic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Prezioso
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome, Italy.,IRCSS San Raffaele Roma, Microbiology of Chronic Neuro-Degenerative Pathologies Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Pietropaolo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome, Italy
| | - Ugo Moens
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø-The Arctic University of Norway Tromsø, Norway
| | - Marco Ciotti
- Virology Unit, Polyclinic Tor Vergata Rome, Italy
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23
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Kien TQ, Kien NX, Thang LV, Nghia PB, Van DT, Duc NV, Ha DM, Dung NTT, Ha NTT, Loan VT, Vinh HT, Manh BV, Su HX, Tien TV, Rostaing L, Toan PQ. Stepwise Reduction of Mycophenolate Mofetil with Conversion to Everolimus for the Treatment of Active BKV in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center Experience in Vietnam. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11247297. [PMID: 36555914 PMCID: PMC9783583 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11247297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: No specific antiviral drug can effectively treat BKV reactivation after kidney transplantation. Thus, we evaluated stepwise-reduced immunosuppression to treat BKV reactivation. Methods: 341 kidney-transplant recipients were monitored for BKV infection (BKV-viremia, BKV-viruria). Positive samples with a significant virus load were nested PCR-genotyped in the VP1 region. In 97/211 patients presenting BKV viremia ≥104 copies/mL and/or BKV viruria ≥107 copies/mL, or BKV-nephropathy immunosuppression (i.e., mycophenolate mofetil [MMF]) was reduced by 50%. If viral load did not decrease within 28 days, MMF dose was further reduced by 25%, although calcineurin-inhibitor (CNI) therapy remained unchanged. If BKV viral load did not decrease within another 28 days, MMF was withdrawn and replaced by everolimus combined with reduced CNIs. Results: Only 41/97 BKV (+) cases completed the 6-month follow-up. Among these, 29 (71%) were in the BKV-I group and 12 (29%) were in BKV-IV. BKV viruria and BKV viremia were significantly decreased from 9.32 to 6.09 log10 copies/mL, and from 3.59 to 2.45 log10 copies/mL (p < 0.001 and p = 0.024, respectively). 11/32 (34.4%) patients were cleared of BKV viremia; 2/32 (6.3%) patients were cleared of BKV in both serum and urine, and 9/9 (100%) only had BKV viruria but did not develop BKV viremia. eGFR remained stable. No patient with BKV-related nephropathy had graft loss. There was a significant inverse relationship between changes in eGFR and serum BKV load (r = −0.314, p = 0.04). Conclusions: This stepwise immunosuppressive strategy proved effective at reducing BKV viral load in kidney transplant recipients that had high BKV loads in serum and/or urine. Renal function remained stable without rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Truong Quy Kien
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Xuan Kien
- Transplant Centre, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Le Viet Thang
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Phan Ba Nghia
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Diem Thi Van
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Van Duc
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Do Manh Ha
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Thi Thuy Dung
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Thi Thu Ha
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Vu Thi Loan
- Department of Endocrinology, 108 Military Central Hospital, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Hoang Trung Vinh
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Bui Van Manh
- Center of Emergency, Intensive Care Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Hoang Xuan Su
- Institute of Biomedicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Tran Viet Tien
- Department of Infectious Disease, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Lionel Rostaing
- Nephrology, Hemodialysis, Apheresis, and Kidney Transplantation Department, Grenoble University Hospital, CEDEX 9, 38043 Grenoble, France
- Correspondence:
| | - Pham Quoc Toan
- Department of Nephrology, Military Hospital 103, Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
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