Sex-specific signatures of gut microbiota and systemic inflammation in patients with urolithiasis: a cross-sectional study
Abstract
Background Urolithiasis is a globally prevalent disease with a distinct male predominance; however, the pathophysiological heterogeneity within diagnosed cohorts remains underexplored. This study delineates the sex-specific signatures of gut microbiota and systemic inflammation in urolithiasis patients to inform sex-stratified management. Methods This cross-sectional study enrolled 60 urolithiasis patients (40 males, 20 females). Systemic inflammatory cytokines were quantified via peripheral blood assays, and gut microbiota was profiled using 16S rRNA sequencing. Data were integrated to evaluate microbiome-immune-metabolic associations. Results Baseline demographics and routine biochemical parameters were comparable between sexes. Male patients exhibited significantly elevated peripheral levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-5, IL-17A, IFN-α, IL-12P70, and IFN-γ (P < 0.05). Beta-diversity analysis revealed no significant difference in the overall gut microbial community structures between sexes (P = 0.484). LEfSe analysis identified a significant enrichment of Akkermansia and Holdemanella in females, whereas Mogibacterium was notably enriched in males. Crucially, Mogibacterium abundance positively correlated with IL-17A and IL-12P70 levels (P < 0.05). Functional potential profiling indicated enhanced predicted capacities for secondary metabolite biosynthesis and lipid metabolism in the female cohort. Conclusion Our findings highlight significant sex-associated…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 60 participants or records.
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