What is in the BKV Detection Kit

The TRUPCR® BKV Detection Kit is a real-time PCR-based in vitro diagnostic tool that enables BKV-positive sample identification through dual-target detection. The assay includes:

• Specific forward and reverse primers for BKV
• A fluorescently labeled probe system (reporter and quencher)
• Internal control to detect PCR inhibition
• Pre-mixed real-time PCR reagents and cDNA components

Designed to run on widely used PCR platforms, the kit provides all necessary components for an efficient, high-throughput workflow in clinical molecular labs.

Role of BKV in Disease

BK virus (BKV) belongs to the polyomavirus family and is commonly acquired during childhood. In immunocompetent individuals, BKV infections are typically asymptomatic or cause only mild respiratory symptoms. Once acquired, the virus persists in the urinary tract and kidneys throughout life.

However, in immunosuppressed patients—particularly kidney transplant recipients—BKV may reactivate and replicate, leading to BKV nephropathy (BKVN). This serious complication can result in progressive renal dysfunction and graft loss. Estimates suggest 1–10% of renal transplant patients develop BKVN, and up to 80% of those may experience graft failure.

Beyond nephropathy, BKV has been implicated in encephalitis, pneumonitis, retinitis, vasculopathy, and multi-organ involvement. Early detection and monitoring of BKV-targeted DNA in plasma and urine is critical for preventing irreversible damage in vulnerable patients.

About the TRUPCR® BKV Viral Load Kit

The TRUPCR® BKV Viral Load Kit delivers precise, BKV-targeted results using a dual-target real-time PCR approach. It’s designed for:

• Detection and quantification of BK virus DNA in clinical specimens
• High analytical sensitivity at 100 IU/mL
• Ease of use with pre-configured reagents and simplified protocols
• Broad platform compatibility including ABI 7300/7500, CFX96™, Rotor-Gene Q, and QuantStudio™

This product is well-suited for routine monitoring of transplant patients, especially in nephrology and hematopoietic stem cell units. Its integration of internal control sequences ensures confidence in negative results, ruling out false negatives caused by inhibition or sample issues.

Principle and Workflow

The test is based on real-time amplification of BKV DNA using a fluorogenic probe system:

1. Sample Preparation: Extracted DNA from EDTA plasma or urine
2. PCR Amplification: Primers and probe hybridize to conserved BKV sequences
3. Fluorescent Detection: As Taq polymerase cleaves the probe during extension, fluorescence increases proportionally
4. Data Analysis: Ct values are measured and correlated with viral load

The internal control ensures that every step of the PCR process functions correctly, adding a layer of result verification. With no special training required and ready-to-use reagents, the workflow is streamlined for clinical use.

Clinical Application

Monitoring BKV in clinical samples is essential for transplant management. The TRUPCR® BKV Detection Kit supports early detection of viral reactivation, enabling:

• Timely immunosuppressant adjustment
• Prevention of BKV nephropathy in renal transplant patients
• Surveillance of BKV-positive patients at risk for systemic complications
• Reliable diagnostics in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients

Given its high sensitivity, this kit plays a pivotal role in post-transplant care, improving patient outcomes and helping clinicians preserve organ function.