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Dermatoglyphic asymmetry and testosterone levels in normal males
C Sorenson Jamison1, R J Meier, B C Campbell
1Anthropology Department, Indiana University, Bloomington 47405.
American Journal of Physical Anthropology
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Testosterone levels in adult males are linked to dermatoglyphic asymmetry, suggesting prenatal testosterone influences fingerprint and palm print development. This study examined seven dermatoglyphic variables.
Area of Science:
- Human biology
- Genetics
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Dermatoglyphics, the study of skin patterns, offers insights into developmental processes.
- Hormonal influences, particularly testosterone, are implicated in human physical development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the statistical relationship between dermatoglyphic asymmetry and adult testosterone levels.
- To explore the potential impact of prenatal testosterone on dermatoglyphic development.
Main Methods:
- Collected dermatoglyphic prints and salivary samples from 39 adult males.
- Employed correlation, regression, and analysis of covariance to analyze seven dermatoglyphic variables against testosterone levels.
- Controlled for age and stature in statistical analyses.
Main Results:
- Testosterone levels significantly affected the asymmetry of three dermatoglyphic variables (a-b ridge count, palmar pattern intensity, combined palm/digit intensity).
- Analysis of covariance revealed testosterone levels significantly impacted five variables, including radial digital count and digital pattern intensity.
- Findings suggest a link between testosterone and the development of specific dermatoglyphic features.
Conclusions:
- The study provides associational evidence supporting the hypothesis that prenatal testosterone levels significantly influence dermatoglyphic development.
- Results indicate testosterone's role in shaping both palmar and digital dermatoglyphic patterns.