BK polyomavirus antigens presented on major histocompatibility complex

BK polyomavirus antigens presented on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) refers to peptides derived from the BK polyomavirus (BKPyV), a common human polyomavirus, that are processed within infected cells and displayed by MHC molecules on the cell surface[6][4]. These antigens are recognized by T lymphocytes (CD8^+^ via MHC-I; CD4^+^ via MHC-II) and are critical for initiating effective antiviral immunity in the context of infection and in preventing viral-associated nephropathy after kidney transplantation[4][6][7]. The display of these antigens can trigger specific T cell-mediated responses that clear infected cells, but viral proteins such as the agnoprotein may facilitate immune evasion by modulating MHC molecule expression[2]. While no drugs directly target these antigens, adoptive transfer of virus-specific T cells or adjustment of immunosuppression are the main strategies for control in transplantation settings[6][7].

Other names

BK virus antigens presented on MHCBKPyV antigens on MHCBK polyomavirus peptides on MHCBK virus peptides on HLABKV antigens (in context of antigen presentation)

Induction of virus-specific T cell responses (primarily cytotoxic and helper T cell activity) Immune recognition leading to cytolytic targeting of infected cells