Is sex still binary?

Christoph Rehmann-Sutter*, Olaf Hiort, Ulrike M. Krämer, Lisa Malich, Malte Spielmann

*Corresponding author for this work

Abstract

In this perspective article we discuss the limitations of sex as a binary concept and how it is challenged by medical developments and a better understanding of gender diversity. Recent data indicate that sex is not a simple binary classification based solely on genitalia at birth or reproductive capacity but encompasses various biological characteristics such as chromosomes, hormones, and secondary sexual characteristics. The existence of individuals with differences in sex development (DSD) who do not fit typical male or female categories further demonstrates the complexity of sex. We argue that the belief that sex is strictly binary based on gametes is insufficient, as there are multiple levels of sex beyond reproductivity. We also explore the role of sex in sex determination, gene expression, brain development, and behavioural patterns and emphasize the importance of recognizing sex diversity in personalized medicine, as sex can influence disease presentation, drug response, and treatment effectiveness. Finally, we call for an inter- and transdisciplinary approach to study sex diversity and develop new categories and methodologies that go beyond a binary model.

Original languageEnglish
JournalMedizinische Genetik
Volume35
Issue number3
Pages (from-to)173-180
Number of pages8
ISSN0936-5931
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01.09.2023

Research Areas and Centers

  • Academic Focus: Center for Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBBM)
  • Research Area: Medical Genetics
  • Research Area: Center for Cultural Studies (ZKFL)

DFG Research Classification Scheme

  • 2.22-03 Human Genetics
  • 2.22-17 Endocrinology, Diabetology, Metabolism
  • 2.22-20 Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  • SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
  • SDG 4 - Quality Education
  • SDG 5 - Gender Equality
  • SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities
  • SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

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  • SFB 1665: Sexdiversity - Determinants, meanings and implications of sex diversity in sociocultural, medical and biological landscapes

    Hiort, O. (Speaker, Coordinator), Spielmann, M. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Holterhus, P. M. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Hornig, N. C. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Müller, F. J. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Frielitz-Wagner, I. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Mittag, J. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Kircher, M. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Seeger, K. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Kulle, A. E. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Busch, H. S. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Aherrahrou, R. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Krämer, U. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Reisch, N. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Göpel, W. (Principal Investigator (PI)), König, I. R. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Laudes, M. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Jürgensen, M. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Mangold, A. K. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Rehmann-Sutter, C. (Second Speaker/Coordinator), Stammberger, B. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Stoff, H. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Palm, K. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Malich, L. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Nemec, B. (Principal Investigator (PI)), Hundt, J. (Principal Investigator (PI)) & Kohlrausch, J. (Principal Investigator (PI))

    01.02.24 → …

    Project: DFG Projects › DFG Joint Research: Collaborative Research Center/ Transregios

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