Abstract
The majority of studies attempting to address the healthcare needs of the millions
of transgender, non-binary, and/or gender diverse (TNG) individuals rely on human
subjects, overlooking the benefits of translational research in animal models. Researchers
have identified many ways in which gonadal steroid hormones regulate neuronal gene
expression, connectivity, activity, and function across the brain to control behavior.
However, these discoveries primarily benefit cisgender populations. Research into
the effects of exogenous hormones such as estradiol, testosterone, and progesterone
has direct translational benefit for TNG individuals on gender affirming hormone therapies
(GAHT). Despite this potential, endocrinological healthcare for TNG individuals remains
largely unimproved. Here, we outline important areas of translational research that
could address the unique healthcare needs of TNG individuals on GAHT. We highlight
key biomedical questions regarding GAHT that can be investigated using animal models.
We discuss how contemporary research fails to address the needs of GAHT-users and
identify equitable practices for cisgender scientists engaging with this work. We
conclude that if necessary and important steps are taken to address these issues,
translational research on GAHT will greatly benefit the healthcare outcomes of TNG
people.
Keywords
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Article Info
Publication History
Accepted:
July 6,
2022
Received in revised form:
June 20,
2022
Received:
March 15,
2022
Publication stage
In Press Journal Pre-ProofIdentification
Copyright
© 2022 Published by Elsevier Inc on behalf of Society of Biological Psychiatry.
