Penile microbiome: decoding its impact on HIV risk
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
6-18-2024
Journal
Current opinion in HIV and AIDS
DOI
10.1097/COH.0000000000000865
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The penile microbiome has been linked to local inflammation and increased risk for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. This review explores recent studies of this emerging area of HIV research. RECENT FINDINGS: The male urogenital tract supports multiple distinct niches, where their associated microbiome are shaped by abiotic (e.g., oxygen, moisture) and biotic (e.g., host immunity) environmental factors and host behaviors, particularly sexual activity. In addition, male circumcision is a significant drivers of male genital microbiome in both children and adults. Recent sexual partner studies provide new insight into the exchange of genital bacteria and concurrent local immune changes that may impact HIV risk. SUMMARY: The male genital microbiome is shaped by the local microenvironment and host behaviors including sexual activity. Improving our understanding of the connection between the male genital microbiome, local inflammation, and HIV susceptibility, as well as how pro-inflammatory genital bacteria are transmitted between sexual partners may inform new strategies to prevent HIV transmission.
APA Citation
Nelson, Sydney G. and Liu, Cindy M., "Penile microbiome: decoding its impact on HIV risk" (2024). GW Authored Works. Paper 5080.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/gwhpubs/5080
Department
Environmental and Occupational Health