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Unraveling the Intricacies of the Seminal Microbiome and Its Impact on Human Fertility
Summary
This review explores the growing understanding of microbial communities found in seminal fluid and their potential role in male fertility. Researchers found that certain bacterial populations are associated with healthy reproductive function, while imbalances in these communities may correlate with fertility challenges. The study highlights the seminal microbiome as an emerging area of research that could lead to new approaches for understanding and addressing reproductive health.
Although the microbial communities from seminal fluid were an unexplored field some decades ago, their characteristics and potential roles are gradually coming to light. Therefore, a complex and specific microbiome population with commensal niches and fluctuating species has started to be revealed. In fact, certain clusters of bacteria have been associated with fertility and health, while the outgrowth of several species is potentially correlated with infertility indicators. This constitutes a compelling reason for outlining the external elements that may induce changes in the seminal microbiome composition, like lifestyle factors, gut microbiota, pathologies, prebiotics, and probiotics. In this review, we summarize the main findings about seminal microbiome, its origins and composition, its relationship with fertility, health, and influence factors, while reminding readers of the limitations and advantages introduced from technical variabilities during the experimental procedures.
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