Molecular sex differences in human serum.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Sex is an important factor in the prevalence, incidence, progression, and response to treatment of many medical conditions, including autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases and psychiatric conditions. Identification of molecular differences between typical males and females can provide a valuable basis for exploring conditions differentially affected by sex.

Methodology/principal findings

Using multiplexed immunoassays, we analyzed 174 serum molecules in 9 independent cohorts of typical individuals, comprising 196 males and 196 females. Sex differences in analyte levels were quantified using a meta-analysis approach and put into biological context using k-means to generate clusters of analytes with distinct biological functions. Natural sex differences were establ

SUBMITTER: Ramsey JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3520798 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature