Studies published in the peer-reviewed journal eBioMedicine conferred that gut microbiota may affect a person′s chance of contracting HIV.

Before infection, HIV-positive males had higher levels of inflammatory cytokines and bioactive lipids, both linked to systemic inflammation, showing that their bodies were continuously fighting against infection or damage.

Experts stated the existence of a link between chronic HIV and changes in gut bacteria. The study looked at gut microbiome samples taken before and after infection from 27 men who had intercourse with men. The samples were compared to those of 28 men who had comparable behavioral risk factors for infection but were HIV-free.

The gut flora of the infected individuals did not alter significantly during the first year. But the HIV-positive guys already showed altered gut flora before infection compared to their uninfected participants.

The infected individuals showed increased quantities of the bacterium Megasphaera elsdenii, and lower levels of Bacteroides species, a type of bacteria common in the lower digestive tract and vital in maintaining a healthy gut environment. Males who had HIV had elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines and bioactive lipids before becoming infected, both of which are linked to systemic inflammation, showing that their bodies were continually on the lookout for infection or injury.

(Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/gut-bacteria-may-contribute-to-hiv-infection-susceptibility-study-101664776479529.html)