The Male Genital Tract (MGT): A Physiological Pharmacokinetic Compartment
The male genital tract (MGT) is a site for infection (HIV), cancer (testicular) and disorders (erectile dysfunction). Since it is part of the male excretory and reproductive system it is also vulnerable to toxic effects of drugs. The MGT is a physiological pharmacokinetic compartment consisting of anatomical (blood-testes barrier) and physiological barriers (expression of drug metabolizing enzymes, efflux & influx transporters) which can significantly influence the penetration of drugs into the disease compartments. The semen is a surrogate for measuring drug concentrations in MGT. The ratio of drug concentration in semen plasma (SP) to blood plasma (BP) (SP/BP) is used as a measure of penetration of drugs into MGT. MGT is included as a compartment in PBPK modelling.
Reference.
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/testicular-cancer-care/symptoms-causes/syc-20352986
- Neverette NC, et al. 2026. Contemporary antiretroviral pharmacology in the male genital tract: implications for HIV treatment and prevention. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 70(5):e0140125.
Ramesh Jayaraman
DoseQuantics Consulting