Understanding the sexome: measuring and reporting sex differences in gene systems

Endocrinology. 2012 Jun;153(6):2551-5. doi: 10.1210/en.2011-2134. Epub 2012 Mar 20.

Abstract

The current male bias in biomedical research should be eliminated. The large sex differences in incidence and progression of diseases mean that sex-biased factors are an untapped source of factors that protect from disease. Greater understanding will come from intensified study of the "sexome," which is the sum of sex-biased effects on gene networks and cell systems. The global search for sites and mechanisms of sex-specific regulation in diverse tissues will provide unanticipated insights into physiological regulation and targets for novel therapies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Gene Regulatory Networks / genetics*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Models, Genetic*
  • Sex Factors*
  • Transcriptome / genetics*