Exploring Testosterone and Immune Response in Transgender Men During Gender-Affirming Care

Sunday, 15 September 2024, 14:01

Gender-affirming care, particularly testosterone therapy, significantly influences the immune system of transgender men. A recent study examined how testosterone affects viral infection vulnerability and autoimmune disease susceptibility in 23 transgender men aged 18-37. The research indicates changes in immune profiles akin to those in cisgender men, urging caution in therapy assessments.
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Exploring Testosterone and Immune Response in Transgender Men During Gender-Affirming Care

Understanding Testosterone's Role in Gender-Affirming Care

Gender-affirming care, particularly hormone therapy, involving testosterone can significantly affect the immune system in transgender men.

Study Overview

Conducted in Sweden, the research involved 23 transgender men over 12 months, aiming to assess testosterone's role in immune response.

  • Initial blood samples indicated baseline hormone levels.
  • Three months of testosterone therapy showed levels comparable to cisgender men.

Immune Response Alterations

After a year, changes in immune responses were evident:

  1. Type I interferon levels decreased, impacting viral response.
  2. An increase in tumor necrosis factor signaling suggested enhanced bacterial infection defense.

Despite findings, researchers emphasize the need for caution in interpreting outcomes. Co-author Petter Brodin cautioned against assuming increased infection susceptibility.

Conclusions and Further Research

The study highlights the necessity for extensive research to clarify the implications of hormone therapy in transgender populations.


This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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