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BookmarkScienceDaily (Oct. 31, 2008) — In the largest ever genetic study of male to female transsexuals Australian researchers have found a significant genetic link between gender identity and a gene involved in testosterone action.
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From an early age people develop an inner sense of being male or female – their gender identity. Transsexuals however, identify with a physical sex opposite to their perceived biological sex.
DNA samples were collected from 112 male to female transsexuals and researchers compared genetic differences with non transsexuals.
The researchers discovered that male to female transsexuals were more likely to have a longer version of a gene which is known to modify the action of the sex hormone testosterone.
"We think that these genetic differences might reduce testosterone action and under masculinise the brain during foetal development." said researcher Lauren Hare.
For decades, there has been debate over the causes of transexuality. Early theories included psychosocial factors such as childhood trauma. More recent studies have indicated that family history and genetic aspects are linked to the development of gender identity.
"There is a social stigma that transsexualism is simply a lifestyle choice, however our findings support a biological basis of how gender identity develops." said study leader Associate Professor Vincent Harley, Head of Molecular Genetics at Prince Henry's Institute.
"As with all genetic association studies it will be important to replicate these findings in other populations" said Associate Professor Vincent Harley.
Researchers are now planning even larger genetic studies and are investigating a wider range of genes that may be related to gender identity.
This international study involved researchers at Prince Henry's Institute, Monash Gender Dysphoria Unit, Monash University, Melbourne University, the University of California Los Angeles in the USA.
The research was funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council Australia and the US National Institutes of Health.
Journal reference:
- Lauren Hare, Pascal Bernard, Francisco J. Sanchez, Paul N. Baird, Eric Vilain, Trudy Kennedy and Vincent R. Harley. Androgen Receptor (AR) Repeat Length Polymorphism Associated with Male-to-female Transsexualism. Biological Psychiatry, Advance online publication date 27 Oct 2008, Jan 2009 print edition
