Introduction
In the present day, we further integrate the idea of gender identity in our current medical field. This article will focus on the details of Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy in the case of Gender Dysphoria, where it allows an individual to change their gender to what they identify with. Scientists have discovered a link between Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy and a biotech method called DNA methylation.
Gender affirming Hormone Therapy
Gender-affirming Hormone Therapy or GAHT, is a medical procedure done for transgender individuals. This procedure works by promoting the opposite sex hormone and blocking the production of the original sex hormone. However, there are some issues that are still unknown. Our bodies contain enzymes that regulate hormones and can actively break down the newly introduced hormone. A team of scientists decided to tackle this question with the help of DNA Methylation, and how it affects the genetic makeup of blood cells while undergoing Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy.
DNA Methylation
DNA methylation is a process where a methyl group is attached to the cytosine in a DNA strand. This is a biomarker that is used to track the changes in a blood cell. They used this method and discovered that the use of Gender affirming Hormone Therapy and the human immune system are connected through the help of DNA methylation, and helps shed light on its connection to autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases that existed before such therapy can affect how a patient receives the hormone therapy. This is especially crucial for younger patients who are going through gender affirming care. In this study, they also took into great consideration the medication that is prominently used, to confirm that no unexpected mutations occur. DNA methylation is a proven technique to assess the safety and regulation of hormone therapy.
Conclusion
The combination of DNA methylation and Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy is a step forward in understanding the molecular chemistry of Hormone Therapy and to better improve the safety and effectiveness of Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy.
References
Chan Swe, N., Ahmed, S., Eid, M., Poretsky, L., Gianos, E., & Cusano, N. E. (2022, March 3). The effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy on cardiovascular and Skeletal Health: A Literature Review. Metabolism open. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8907681/
Jin, Bilian et al. “DNA methylation: superior or subordinate in the epigenetic hierarchy?.” Genes & cancer vol. 2,6 (2011): 607-17. doi:10.1177/1947601910393957
Coleman, E et al. “Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People, Version 8.” International journal of transgender health vol. 23,Suppl 1 S1-S259. 6 Sep. 2022, doi:10.1080/26895269.2022.2100644
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