Neurobiology of gender identity and sexual orientation - Neurobiology gender identity: Learning outcomes

7 important questions on Neurobiology of gender identity and sexual orientation - Neurobiology gender identity: Learning outcomes

What genetic and hormonal factors determine the development of internal and external sex organs in humans?

The development of internal and external sex organs is influenced by genetic factors such as sex chromosomes (XX for females, XY for males) and the presence of the testis-determining factor (TDF/SRY) on the Y chromosome. Hormonal factors, including testosterone and anti-Müllerian hormone, play crucial roles in the differentiation of male and female reproductive structures.

How do Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome, Congenital Androgen Hyperplasia, and Persistent Müllerian Duct Syndrome impact the development of sexual characteristics in individuals?

  1. Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome results from a mutation in the androgen receptor, leading to a lack of response to androgens, causing XY individuals to develop externally as females.
  2. .Congenital Androgen Hyperplasia involves excessive androgen secretion, leading to varying degrees of masculinization in females.
  3. Persistent Müllerian Duct Syndrome is characterized by the presence of both male and female internal sex organs due to a congenital lack of anti-Müllerian hormone.

How does gender identity differ from sexual orientation, and what factors contribute to each?

Gender identity refers to an individual's subjective sense of being male, female, or non-binary, while sexual orientation is the direction of an individual's sexual attractions. Gender identity is influenced by prenatal hormone exposure, and sexual orientation is largely biologically determined but involves different factors such as genetics and prenatal androgens.
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What evidence supports the idea that biological factors, including prenatal androgens and genetics, play a role in determining an individual's sexual orientation?

  • Various lines of evidence, such as studies on prenatal androgen exposure markers and research on twins, suggest a biological basis for sexual orientation. While the exact mechanisms are complex, the overall findings indicate that biology significantly influences sexual orientation.

What is a sexual dimorphic nucleus, and how does it relate to sexual dimorphism in the human brain?

A sexual dimorphic nucleus is a specific brain structure that exhibits size or structural differences between males and females. In the context of the human brain, sexual dimorphic nuclei are areas that show variation in size or structure based on sex, suggesting sexual dimorphism in brain anatomy.

How do brain differences between transsexual individuals and controls contribute to our understanding of gender identity?

Neurobiological studies have identified structural and functional brain differences between transsexual individuals and controls, providing insights into the biological basis of gender identity. These differences may contribute to the understanding of the complex relationship between brain anatomy and gender identity.

What is the treatment approach of the VUmc Gender Centre for children and adolescents with gender dysphoria, and what are the key objectives?













  • The VUmc Gender Centre employs a treatment protocol involving puberty suppression, cross-sex hormones, and gender reassignment surgery for adolescents with gender dysphoria. The primary objectives are to alleviate distress caused by the development of secondary sex characteristics, prevent irreversible changes, and provide time for individuals to make informed decisions regarding gender reassignment.

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