The human microbiome and benign prostatic hyperplasia: Current understandings and clinical implications

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Urology
• Human Health

Background:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a prevalent condition affecting middle-aged and elderly males, significantly reducing quality of life.
• The human microbiome, encompassing various body sites, is increasingly recognized for its role in health and disease.
• Emerging evidence suggests a connection between microbiome alterations and BPH pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the human microbiome's influence on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
• To explore the mechanisms linking the microbiome to BPH, including inflammation, metabolic syndrome, and aging.
• To identify future research directions and potential therapeutic implications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on the human microbiome and BPH.
• Analysis of proposed pathways involving microbiome dysbiosis, inflammation, metabolic syndrome, and senescence.
• Exploration of potential therapeutic targets based on microbiome modulation.

Main Results:

• Microbiome dysbiosis can trigger local or systemic inflammation, contributing to BPH development.
• Microbiome-induced metabolic syndrome (MetS) is implicated in the pathogenesis of BPH.
• Changes in microbiome composition associated with aging may also play a role in BPH.

Conclusions:

• The human microbiome is a significant factor in the development and progression of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
• Targeting the microbiome, inflammation, metabolic syndrome, and aging-related changes presents promising avenues for BPH treatment.
• Further research is warranted to fully elucidate these complex interactions and develop effective therapies.