Genetic basis of herpes virus suppression

Summary

With a prevalence of about 30-90% the human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an important pathogen for individuals with an immature or compromised immune system.

Following solid-organ and stem cell transplantation, the virus is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality.

Although efficient antiviral agents are now available to treat CMV disease, they are all associated with substantial toxic side effects.

Host factors are likely to play a crucial role in the efficiency of control of virus latency. Genome wide association studies (GWAS) provide a powerful tool to identify these.

This study will identify novel host factors important for efficient control of latent CMV infection, with the aim of providing new markers to estimate the risk of CMV reactivation and disease in transplant recipients.