The aquaporin 5 promoter polymorphism and cytomegalovirus infection in kidney transplant recipients

Introduction: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a significant complication in kidney transplant recipients, impacting graft function and overall patient outcomes. Aquaporin 5 (AQP5) is a transmembrane channel that regulates renal function and impacts important mechanisms of immune cell migration and inflammation. Objectives: This research aimed to evaluate the impact of AQP5 polymorphism (-1364A/C) on the risk of CMV infection in kidney transplant recipients. Patients and Methods: One-hundred kidney transplant recipients were included in this study, divided into two groups; CMV+-positive (n=50) and CMV– -negative (n=50) patients. Additionally, a control group of 50 healthy individuals was included. The frequency of the AQP5 (-1364A/C) gene polymorphism was determined using the ARMS-PCR technique. Results: About 26% and 16% of patients in the CMV+ and CMV- groups experienced acute rejection after renal transplantation, respectively (P=0.220). The CC genotype of AQP5 (-1364A/C) polymorphism was present in 8% (n=4) of CMV+ and 4% (n=2) of CMV- recipients (4%); however, it was not observed in the control group (P=0.354). Conclusion: The results revealed that carrying at least one C-allele of the AQP5 1364A/C polymorphism (AC or CC genotypes) does not have a significant association with the incidence or presence of CMV infection in kidney transplant patients.