Development of a preventive vaccine against BK virus in transplanted patients

The majority of individuals (80% of the population) have been infected with polyomavirus BK (BKV), but are asymptomatic or have only endured mild symptoms. The virus then resides in the kidneys where it persists in a dormant state for the life of the individual. The virus can, however, become reactivated in the case of deep immunosuppression, most often occurring as a result of kidney transplantation. When this happens, it causes a disease called BK virus nephropathy (BKVN) in 20 to 40% of renal transplanted patients, which causes the loss of the transplant in up to 60% of affected patients. Therefore, potent preventive strategies against BKV, such as vaccination, are urgently needed. By evaluating anti-BKV immune cell responses and identifying BKV protective immune cellular components, we will reveal targets suitable for the development of a vaccine for patients on the kidney transplant waiting list, ultimately allowing them to fight BKV infection after kidney transplantation.

Faculty Supervisor:

Réjean Lapointe

Student:

Partner:

Merck Canada Inc (Kirkland, QC);Institut du cancer de Montréal

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Université de Montréal

Program: