World J Mens Health.  2020 Jan;38(1):48-60. 10.5534/wjmh.190009.

Sex Differences in Gut Microbiota

• Kim YS
• Unno T
• Kim BY
• Park MS

• KMID: 2465409
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5534/wjmh.190009

Abstract

Humans carry numerous symbiotic microorganisms in their body, most of which are present in the gut. Although recent technological advances have produced extensive research data on gut microbiota, there are various confounding factors (e.g., diet, race, medications) to consider. Sex is one of the important variables affecting the gut microbiota, but the association has not yet been sufficiently investigated. Although the results are inconsistent, several animal and human studies have shown sex differences in gut microbiota. Herein, we review these studies to discuss the sex-dependent differences as well as the possible mechanisms involved.

Keyword

Gastrointestinal tract; Gonadal steroid hormones; Microbiota; Sex differences

MeSH Terms

Animals
Continental Population Groups
Diet
Gastrointestinal Microbiome*
Gastrointestinal Tract
Gonadal Steroid Hormones
Humans
Microbiota
Sex Characteristics*
Gonadal Steroid Hormones

Figure

• 

  Fig. 1 Changes in the gut microbiota with time and sex, and the modulatory factors involved. BMI: body mass index.

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