TT virus for adherence monitoring in kidney transplantation

When the kidneys are damaged by conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes and eventually fail, kidney transplantation from a donor offers the best way to restore their function. However, after kidney transplantation, it is necessary to suppress the activity of the body`s defence system against germs through medication, as the new kidney would be recognized as foreign and attacked otherwise. A significant challenge for patients is the consistent intake of these life-saving medications. If the medications are not taken daily for many years, it can lead to chronic damage to the transplanted kidneys and ultimately result in kidney failure. To detect early on whether patients are taking their medications correctly, we need easily deployable measurement methods in post-transplant medical care. However, there is currently no optimal strategy to accurately determine medication adherence in clinical practice. Various approaches have been suggested, including blood tests, questionnaires, reports from medical personnel, and electronic monitoring. None of these methods, on its own, is sufficiently accurate. In our project, we are testing a new method in conjunction with existing approaches to better assess correct medication intake following kidney transplantation. We use a virus called "Torque Teno," which is present in all humans and does not cause diseases. The amount of this virus in the blood reflects how effectively the body`s immune system is suppressed. We are now testing whether we can indirectly measure whether patients are taking their medications correctly using this virus as an indicator. If we find that a patient is likely not taking their medications correctly, we could take timely measures to improve their taking, such as implementing specific education programs. Through this, we hope to prevent harm to the transplant. This project could contribute to the longevity of kidney transplants and offer patients a better quality of life. It is an important step toward improving transplant medicine and providing patients with a brighter future.