The Role of Gut Microbiota in Prostate Gland Inflammation

The gut microbiota can play a role in either preventing or causing inflammation in the prostate gland, according to a recent study. The study, conducted by researchers from Poland’s Pomeranian Medical University and State University of Applied Sciences, aimed to investigate the relationship between diagnostic lipid parameters for metabolic syndrome, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and the immunoexpression of interleukins in prostate tissue with benign hyperplasia.

The findings of the study revealed that men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) showed a higher percentage of proinflammatory interleukins (IL-6 and IL-18) in the prostate tissue compared to men without MetS. This suggests that lipid disorders in men with BPH can lead to increased inflammation in the prostate gland. Additionally, the study demonstrated for the first time that the gut microbiota, through SCFAs, can indirectly influence the development of an inflammatory microenvironment in the prostate gland.

The researchers highlighted the significance of creating a well-functioning intestinal microenvironment in reducing overall inflammation. These findings shed light on the potential role of gut microbiota in preventing or promoting inflammation in the prostate gland, providing valuable insights for future research and potential therapeutic interventions.

The study, titled “Tissue immunoexpression of IL-6 and IL-18 in aging men with BPH and MetS and their relationship with lipid parameters and gut microbiota-derived short chain fatty acids,” was published in Aging. The researchers involved in the study include Weronika Ratajczak, Maria Laszczyńska, Aleksandra Rył, Barbara Dołęgowska, Olimpia Sipak, Ewa Stachowska, and Marcin Słojewski, along with Anna Lubkowska.

This study provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between gut microbiota, lipid parameters, and inflammation in the prostate gland. The findings contribute to our understanding of the factors that contribute to the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia and metabolic syndrome, paving the way for potential advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.

Reference: Ratajczak W, Laszczyńska M, Rył A, et al. Tissue immunoexpression of IL-6 and IL-18 in aging men with BPH and MetS and their relationship with lipid parameters and gut microbiota-derived short chain fatty acids. Aging. 2023. doi: 10.18632/aging.205091