Sexual differentiation in humans

Sexual differentiation in humans is the process of development of distinct reproductive and sexual anatomical structures in the human embryo. This process is influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. The sexual differentiation in humans begins at fertilization and continues into adulthood.

Etymology

The term "sexual differentiation" comes from the Latin differentia, meaning "difference", and sexus, meaning "sex". It refers to the process by which the sexes develop distinct physical characteristics.

Genetic factors

The primary genetic factor in human sexual differentiation is the presence or absence of the Y chromosome. The SRY gene on the Y chromosome initiates male sexual development. In the absence of a Y chromosome, the default developmental pathway is female.

Hormonal factors

Hormones play a crucial role in sexual differentiation. The testosterone produced by the testes in male embryos leads to the development of male internal and external genitalia. In female embryos, the absence of testosterone results in the development of female internal and external genitalia.

Environmental factors

Environmental factors can also influence sexual differentiation. For example, exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy can affect the development of the reproductive system.

Related terms

• Sexual dimorphism: The physical differences between males and females of the same species.
• Intersex: A condition in which an individual's reproductive or sexual anatomy does not fit typical definitions of male or female.
• Gender identity: A person's internal sense of their own gender, which may or may not align with their biological sex.

See also

• Sex determination and differentiation
• Sexual differentiation
• Sexual reproduction

References

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