Abstract
Previous neuroimaging studies demonstrated sex and also sexual orientation related structural and functional differences in the human brain. Genetic information and effects of sex hormones are assumed to contribute to the male/female differentiation of the brain, and similar effects could play a role in processes influencing human's sexual orientation. However, questions about the origin and development of a person's sexual orientation remain unanswered, and research on sexual orientation related neurobiological characteristics is still very limited. To contribute to a better understanding of the neurobiology of sexual orientation, we used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in order to compare regional cortical thickness (Cth) and subcortical volumes of homosexual men (hoM), heterosexual men (heM) and heterosexual women (heW). hoM (and heW) had thinner cortices primarily in visual areas and smaller thalamus volumes than heM, in which hoM and heW did not differ. Our results support previous studies, which suggest cerebral differences between hoM and heM in regions, where sex differences have been reported, which are frequently proposed to underlie biological mechanisms. Thus, our results contribute to a better understanding of the neurobiology of sexual orientation.
Highlights
The origin and development of a person’s sexual orientation, and the feeling of being sexually attracted to a person of opposite, same or both sexes, is still a controversial topic
MR measures of all investigated regions of interest (ROI) can be found in Table S1 and Table S2
To contribute to a better understanding of the neurobiology of sexual orientation, we investigated possible differences in regional cortical thickness (Cth) between heterosexual men and homosexual men
Summary
The origin and development of a person’s sexual orientation, and the feeling of being sexually attracted to a person of opposite, same or both sexes, is still a controversial topic. Research pointing to the fact that neurobiological processes are involved in the development of an individual’s sexual orientation is emerging. Sexual Orientation Related Differences in Cortical Thickness those influencing the female/male differentiation (sexual dimorphism) of the human brain during the fetal, neonatal and pubertal development could be involved. Such mechanisms include genetic information and/or effects of sex hormones. While the literature on sex differences in the human brain is extensive, research on neurobiological characteristics of sexual orientation in humans is very limited
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
