Mind the Gap: Sex Bias in Basic Skin Research
August 2015
in “
Journal of Investigative Dermatology
”
Studysummary This study found that sex bias exists in dermatological research, with 60% of articles not reporting the sex of cells or animals and a disproportionate use of male cells and animals when known.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document reviewed 802 dermatological research articles from 2012 to 2013 and found a significant sex bias, with 60% of papers failing to report the sex of cells or animals used, and among those that did, 70% used male keratinocytes. The scarcity of comparative studies between sexes was highlighted. The authors emphasized the importance of sex and age disclosure in research for understanding biological differences that could influence clinical trials and personalized therapy. They recommended that journals mandate reporting of sex and age data and promote the sharing of sex- and age-related findings, as well as called for an increase in the availability of well-characterized skin cells from both sexes and various ages. This approach could prevent unexpected differences in clinical trial responses, enhance cost-effectiveness, and improve clinical outcomes.
