Bacterial colonies could protect against STDs

Indiana University researchers conducted the first study to identify the composition of urogenital microbial communities present in adolescent male urinary tract, which are similar to the species responsible in the protection of healthy young women against sexually transmitted infections. Similarly, these microbes may promote genitourinary health in men. The study is the first to investigate the normal microbiology of men before they begin sexual activity. Cultivation independent sequencing of the bacteria on the head of the penis and urethra was conducted on 18 adolescents. Results showed that different types of bacteria exist in the penis and urethra, in circumcised and uncircumcised adolescents, and after sexual activity began. This will help researchers understand the causes of urinary tract diseases in men and the roles of bacterial colonies at the different stages in male development.