Virus-Infected Cells Presenting BK Virus Antigens

Virus-infected cells presenting BK virus (BKV) antigens are host cells, primarily renal epithelial cells, that have been infected by the human polyomavirus known as BK virus. These infected cells express and present viral proteins (antigens) on their surface, which can be recognized by the immune system—particularly T lymphocytes. The presence of these antigens is central to both the pathogenesis of BKV-associated diseases and to potential immunotherapeutic targeting. Key viral antigens include Large T antigen, small t antigen, VP1/VP2/VP3 capsid proteins, and agnoprotein. The presentation of these antigens allows recognition by cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes, and evidence suggests CD4+ T cell responses play a direct role in controlling infection. Therapeutically, strategies include boosting anti-BK immunity or directly targeting key viral proteins.

Immune recognition and killing of infected cells