New Research Demonstrates Hepatitis E Virus Can Infect and Replicate in Kidney Cells

Recent findings from researchers at Ruhr University Bochum in Germany and TWINCORE, the Center for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research in Hannover, have revealed that the hepatitis E virus (HEV), traditionally known for causing liver inflammation, can also infect kidney cells and multiply within them. This discovery challenges the previous understanding that HEV exclusively targets liver tissues. The study, published in Liver International, utilized cell culture experiments to observe the entire replication process of HEV in kidney cells, which closely mirrors its behavior in liver cells.

The infection of kidney cells by HEV was confirmed through fluorescence imaging, where infected cells were marked with a green dye, while non-infected cells appeared blue. Importantly, the research indicated that antiviral drugs such as ribavirin are less effective in kidney cells compared to liver cells. This reduced efficacy is likely due to differences in the metabolic profiles of these organs, suggesting that the kidney could serve as a viral reservoir, especially in chronic infections.

Dr. André Gömer, the study's last author, explained that, historically, HEV has been associated primarily with hepatic illness, but it is known to infect other cell types such as nerve cells. The new evidence indicates that the virus can also replicate in kidney tissue, which may have implications for treatment strategies. The researchers also performed genetic analyses comparing viruses from blood, stool, and urine samples of chronically infected patients. They observed significant genetic differences, implying independent evolution of the virus within different organs, and highlighting the kidney as a potential site for persistent infection.

HEV remains a major cause of acute viral hepatitis globally. While most infections resolve spontaneously in individuals with healthy immune systems, it can become chronic in immunocompromised patients, such as organ transplant recipients or those with HIV. Additionally, pregnant women are at higher risk of severe outcomes. The discovery of kidney involvement may influence future approaches to managing and treating HEV infections, particularly in persistent and chronic cases.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-hepatitis-virus-infect-kidney-cells.html