Impact of BK Polyomavirus NCCR variations in post kidney transplant outcomes

Abstract

The human BK Polyomavirus (BKPyV) is a DNA virus that is prevalent in 80 % of the population. Infection with this virus may begin in childhood, followed by asymptomatic persistence in the urinary tract. However, in immunocompromised individuals, especially kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), heightened replication of BKPyV can lead to severe complications. The genome of this virus is divided into three parts; the early and late region, and the non-coding control region (NCCR). Mutations in the NCCR can change the archetype strain to the rearranged strain, and NCCR rearrangements play a significant in virus pathogenesis. Interestingly, diverse types of NCCR block rearrangement result in significant differences in conversion potential and host cell viability in the infected cells. A correlation has been detected between increased viral replication potential and pathogenesis in BKPyV-infected KTRs with specific NCCR rearrangements. The objective of this review study was to examine the disease-causing and clinical consequences of variations in the NCCR in BKPyV-infected KTRs such as virus-associated nephropathy (BKPyVAN).

Keywords: BK polyomavirus; Kidney transplantation; NCCR variation.