Researchers in Sydney and California have together found a gene they say plays a role in transexuality. DNA analysis of 112 male-to-female transgender volunteers showed they were more likely to have a longer androgen receptor gene. Their study – thought to be the largest-ever scientific study on the genetics of transsexuality – appears in the scientific journal Biological Psychiatry. "We think that these genetic differences might reduce testosterone action and under masculinise the brain during foetal development," researcher Lauren Hare from Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research told the Australian Associated Press. "This is something that people are born with and it's certainly not a lifestyle choice as some have suggested," she concluded. More on this story is reported by the BBC on the link below.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News Staff
First published: Tuesday, 28th October 2008 - 11:41pm