Molecular Mechanism of Viral Infection and Host Immunity in Transplantation

Dear Colleagues,

Molecular mechanisms of viral infection have been of interest in the field of hematopoietic stem cell or solid organ transplantation for more than 40 years. During the immunosuppression period of up to 3 months, sometimes even longer, viral infections/reactivations led to deleterious complications in the first decades after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). While immunosuppression is short-term in HSCT, solid organ recipients are dependent on life-long immunosuppression. Numerous studies have been performed over the last few decades, highlighting severe complications, including death of the immunosuppressed individuals. However, in the most recent decade—at least for cytomegalovirus and the immunity arising against the virus post-HSCT—several colleagues have reported beneficial effects. Immune recovery is faster in CMV-seropositive individuals, especially if they have one or more CMV-CTLs/µl measurable in the PB. Not only T- and B-cells, but also NK cells can contribute to virus-specific immunity. These cell types are capable of stimulating and enhancing each other, thus contributing in concert to the immune recovery of immune-suppressed patients. Immune reconstitution is essential for preventing other, non-viral complications in HSCT, such as recurrence of the underlying disease. In this Special Issue, I invite contributions of findings and data regarding the immune recovery of immunosuppressed hosts—independent of the transplantation type. In addition, all viruses relevant post-transplant can be discussed and immunity against them reported (e.g. Epstein–Barr virus, Adenoviruses, respiratory viruses, Sars-CoV2, etc.). This Special issue can be an exciting summary of the recent and previous findings in host immunity post-transplantation.

Prof. Dr. Eva Mischak Weissinger
Guest Editor

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