Penile microbiota, human papillomavirus and human immunodeficiency virus infection

Although the human microbiota especially that of the gut, cervix and vagina have been extensively studied, very little is currently known about the penile (glans, coronal sulcus, and shaft) microbiota. Moreover, it remains unknown if there is a “healthy” penile microbiota that protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The best evidence to date for the potential role of the penile microbiota in STIs and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) acquisition have come from studies examining male circumcision. This research project mainly investigated the associations of penile microbiota with human papillomavirus (HPV) and HIV infections among heterosexually-active Black South African men.