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[A boy or a girl: who decides?]
1University of Pittsburgh, Department of Molecular Genetics, W1004BST, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. apgiacob@pitt.edu
Revue Medicale Suisse
|December 31, 2005
Summary
Human sex ratios deviate from the theoretical 1:1 at conception and birth. Hormonal variations, influenced by genetics and environment, may mediate these observed sex ratio deviations.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Endocrinology
- Human genetics
Context:
- The theoretical 1:1 sex ratio at conception is not observed in reality.
- Observed deviations in human sex ratios occur at conception and birth.
- Environmental and individual factors are implicated in sex ratio variations.
Purpose:
- To explore the potential role of hormonal variations in human sex ratio deviations.
- To investigate the influence of hormonal mediators on gametogenesis, embryo implantation, and development.
Summary:
- While theoretically equal, the proportion of male and female births deviates from the 1:1 ratio.
- Individual and environmental factors are believed to influence these deviations.
- Hormonal variations, encompassing both genetic and environmental influences, are proposed as key mediators affecting gametogenesis, embryo implantation, and development, thereby influencing the observed sex ratio.
Impact:
- Provides insight into the biological mechanisms underlying human sex determination.
- Highlights the complex interplay between genetics, environment, and hormones in reproductive outcomes.
- Contributes to understanding factors influencing population sex ratios.