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Sexual differentiation: from genes to gender
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Hormone Research
|January 5, 1999
Summary
This review explores sexual differentiation, focusing on genetic and hormonal factors influencing male and female development of gonads and genitalia. It also examines the links between genetic, gonadal, and hormonal sex with gender identity and behavior.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Developmental biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Human sex is multifaceted, encompassing genetic, hormonal, and anatomical components.
- Behavioral aspects like gender identity and sexual orientation are often associated with sex.
- Understanding sexual differentiation is crucial for comprehending human development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on sexual differentiation.
- To emphasize the genetic and hormonal mechanisms driving male and female development.
- To explore the relationship between biological sex and gender.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles on sexual differentiation.
- Synthesis of information on genetic, hormonal, and anatomical development.
- Analysis of associations between biological sex markers and gender.
Main Results:
- Genetic and hormonal factors are primary drivers of gonadal and genital development.
- A complex interplay exists between genetic sex, gonadal sex, and hormonal profiles.
- The relationship between biological sex and gender is intricate and warrants further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Sexual differentiation is a complex process governed by genetic and hormonal signals.
- Biological sex development influences, but does not solely determine, gender.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the connections between biological sex and gender.