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Urinary Tract Infection in a Small Animal Model: Transurethral Catheterization of Male and Female Mice
Published on: December 1, 2017
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Sexual behavior shapes male genitourinary microbiome composition
Evelyn Toh1, Yue Xing2, Xiang Gao2
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
Cell Reports. Medicine
|March 22, 2023
Summary
The male urethra has a core microbiome, but vaginal intercourse can introduce bacteria linked to vaginal dysbiosis. This highlights the connection between sexual behavior and the male urogenital microbiome.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Microbiology
- Sexual Health
Background:
- The distal male urethral microbiome's origin and role are largely unknown.
- Vaginal microbiome dysbiosis is associated with sexual activity and urogynecological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the composition of the male urethral microbiome.
- To investigate the influence of sexual behavior on the male urethral microbiome.
Main Methods:
- Shotgun metagenomics was used to analyze 110 urethral specimens from asymptomatic men.
- Data were analyzed to identify bacterial composition and associations with behavioral factors.
Main Results:
- Most male urethral specimens contained typical bacteria like lactic acid bacteria and Corynebacterium spp.
- Bacteria associated with vaginal dysbiosis were found in men reporting vaginal intercourse.
- Sexual behavior was the primary factor associated with variations in urethral microbiome composition.
Conclusions:
- The male urethra harbors a core microbiome established independently of sexual exposure.
- Vaginal intercourse can alter the male urethral microbiome, introducing potential pathobionts.
- Urogenital microbiology and sexual behavior are closely interconnected.
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