Gender-Specific Impact of Sex Hormones on the Immune System

Sex hormones are key determinants of gender-related differences and regulate growth and development during puberty. They also exert a broad range modulation of immune cell functions, and a dichotomy exists in the immune response between the sexes. Both clinical and animal models have demonstrated that androgens, estrogens, and progestogens mediate many of the gender-specific differences in immune responses, from the susceptibility to infectious diseases to the prevalence of autoimmune disorders. Androgens and progestogens mainly promote immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory effects, whereas estrogens enhance humoral immunity both in men and in women. This study summarizes the available evidence regarding the physiological effects of sex hormones on human immune cell function and the underlying biological mechanisms, focusing on gender differences triggered by different amounts of androgens between males and females.

Automated summary

Sex hormones play a crucial role in gender-related differences and influence growth and development during puberty. They also have a significant impact on immune cell functions, with a distinct immune response between males and females. Clinical and animal studies have shown that androgens, estrogens, and progestogens are involved in gender-specific immune responses, affecting susceptibility to infectious diseases and autoimmune disorders. Androgens and progestogens mainly promote immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory effects, while estrogens enhance humoral immunity in both genders. This study reviews the available evidence on the physiological effects of sex hormones on human immune cell function and the underlying biological mechanisms, particularly focusing on gender differences triggered by different levels of androgens.