A mouse model of CMV transmission following kidney transplantation

Reactivation of latent CMV in transplant recipients remains a significant infectious complication of transplantation. Investigation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which reactivation occurs has been hampered by the lack of appropriate animal models. Here, we show that transplantation of kidneys latently infected with murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) into NOD.Cg-Prkdc ^scid IL2rg ^tm1Wjl/Szj mice results in reactivation of latent virus in the kidney, resulting in a disseminated primary infection of the recipient. This model will be useful in elucidating mechanisms of MCMV reactivation, including the roles of injury and of spontaneous reactivation, and in testing new therapies for treatment and prevention of CMV reactivation and disease.