Sexual dimorphism in immune cell responses following stroke

Recent bodies of work in regard to stroke have revealed significant sex differences in terms of risk and outcome. While differences in sex hormones have been the focus of earlier research, the reasons for these differences are much more complex and require further identification. This review covers differences in sex related immune responses with a focus on differences in immune cell composition and function. While females are more susceptible to immune related diseases, they seem to have better outcomes from stroke at the experimental level with reduced pro-inflammatory responses. However, at the clinical level, the picture is much more complex with worse neurological outcomes from stroke. While the use of exogenous sex steroids can replicate some of these findings, it is apparent that many other factors are involved in the modulation of immune responses. As a result, more research is needed to better understand these differences and identify appropriate interventions and risk modification.

Automated summary

Recent studies on stroke have found significant differences between sexes in terms of risk and outcome. Although earlier research has focused on differences in sex hormones, the reasons for these differences are more complex. This review examines differences in sex-related immune responses, highlighting disparities in immune cell composition and function. While females are more susceptible to immune-related diseases, experimental findings suggest they have better outcomes from stroke with reduced pro-inflammatory responses.