Sexual diversity of the human brain – Toward the elucidation of the neurobiology of variations in sex and gender

The exploration of sexual diversity in the human brain is a burgeoning field that seeks to unravel the complex interplay between biological sex and socially constructed gender. Traditionally, sex has been understood through biological differences, while gender is shaped by cultural and social influences. Recent studies have begun to investigate whether these factors are regulated by distinct brain regions, with the human brain being broadly categorized into two functional systems: the hypothalamus-limbic system and the cerebral cortex-hippocampus. The former is associated with biological sex differences, particularly in reproductive functions and emotional behaviors, as observed in animal models like rodents. These differences are often attributed to the sexual differentiation of neuronal nuclei and the secretion of sex steroid hormones. Conversely, the cerebral cortex and hippocampus are noted for their developmental plasticity and are thought to be more influenced by social and cultural factors, potentially leading to gender-related differences in cognitive functions. Despite these insights, significant gaps remain in understanding how these brain systems contribute to the diversity of sex and gender, necessitating further investigation into the neurobiological underpinnings of these variations.

This research topic aims to elucidate the neurobiological basis of sexual diversity in the human brain, focusing on whether distinct brain regions are responsible for regulating sex and gender. The primary objective is to determine if the hypothalamus-limbic system is primarily involved in sex regulation, while the cerebral cortex and hippocampus manifest gender-related functions. By evaluating various hypotheses, this research seeks to identify the specific brain sites responsible for the diversity of sex and gender, thereby enhancing our understanding of these complex phenomena. The research will also explore the implications of these findings for sexual behavior, identity, and orientation, including LGBTQ-related aspects.

To gather further insights into the neurobiology of sexual diversity, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Sex differences in hormone release and receptor expression during different circumstances in the LGBTQ brain
- Sexually dimorphic responses and morphology of the LGBTQ brain
- Sex-dependent molecular and cellular mechanisms in the endocrine control of sex and gender
- Epigenetic changes related to sexual and gender diversity in the brain
- Sex differences in the brain of animal models to facilitate understanding of sex and/or gender in humans
- Mechanisms of brain sexual differentiation in animal models providing insight into the sexual diversity of the human brain.