Persistent cytomegalovirus infection is associated with increased expression of TGF- 1, PDGF-AA and ICAM-1 and arterial intimal thickening in kidney allografts

Abstract

Background. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a suggested risk factor for the development of chronic allograft nephropathy. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) are important molecules in this process. We analysed the impact of persistent CMV infection in kidney allografts on the expression of growth factors, adhesion molecules and inflammation markers.