Grant: Travel Awards - Institute Community Support

This study is investigating how the first sexual experiences of Ugandan adolescent men may affect their microbiome and risk of HIV. In women, an unhealthy genital microbiome can lead to inflammation and increase the risk of HIV. Recent research from the Kaul Lab suggests that similar findings apply to men, specifically in the penile urethra. I theorize that some of the inflammatory bacteria found in men are transferred from their female sexual partners during sex, but proving this is challenging. Additionally, it is unclear whether the body produces protective antibodies against these bacterial species. The Kaul Lab has access to a unique study group of adolescent Ugandan men, where urethral samples were collected before and after they first start having sex, also referred to as sexual debut. I will explore how their urethral microbiome and immune system changes over time, and whether this results in the production of protective antibodies against inflammatory bacteria. I expect that when adolescent Ugandan men start having sex, they will be exposed to bacteria from their partners that will cause inflammation in their urethra, leading to the production of antibodies. This research is really important as it will provide valuable insight into HIV prevention, potentially leading to the development of new therapies such as vaccines.