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Updated: Jul 24, 2025

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
[Influence of the germline microbiome on male health and related diseases]
Yu Li1, Yu-Chun Zhou2, Xue-Jun Shang1
1.Department of Andrology, Nanjing School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University / General Hospital of Eastern Theater Command, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, China.
Abstract:
The reproductive microbiota plays an important role in male health and the development and progression of related diseases, but few studies have been reported on its action mechanism and future application. Microbiotas exist in different parts of the male reproductive system, as in the prostate, testicles and semen, with specific microbial characteristics. They are different in structure, bacterial abundance and dominant bacterial genera, and meanwhile closely related because of the relationship between the male reproductive and urinary systems in anatomy and function. The microbiota in the male reproductive system plays an essential role in maintaining the general and local homeostasis of the human genitourinary system. Imbalance of microbiotas can lead to the development and progression of related diseases. An insight into the action mechanism of microbiotas may contribute to the discovery of diagnostic biomarkers and new therapeutic targets for male diseases. This review summarizes the effects of reproductive microbiotas on male health and related diseases in order to help solve relevant clinical problems.
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