Sexual Dimorphism in the Prenatal Digit Ratio (2D:4D)

• DOI: 10.1007/s10508-009-9485-7
• Publication Date: 2009-03-19T16:14:40Z
• Authors: Frietson Galis; Clara M. A. Ten B...; Stefan Van Dongen; Liliane C. D. Wij...
• Keywords: Digit ratio; Sexual dimorphism; Numerical digit; Trait; Sex characteristics; Prenatal development; Sexual Differentiation

The second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is smaller in human males than females and hence this trait sexually dimorphic. thought be established during early prenatal development under the influence of sex hormones. However, general assumption establishment has hardly been studied. In our study, we analyzed 2D:4D 327 deceased fetuses. We measured lengths 169 male 158 female fetuses ranging from 14 42 weeks old. Our results showed a slight, but significant, sexual dimorphism expected direction, i.e., had, on average, 0.924 0.916. There was no significant relationship with presence or absence minor major single multiple congenital abnormalities. minimal, difference between ratios based including excluding non-bony fingertip values being strongly correlated (r = .98). lower thus far reported for children adults both females. extent similar that found children, adults. ratio, thus, seems increase after birth men women, growing faster (positive allometric growth two) perhaps more so women men. Therefore, probably determined by as well postnatal developmental processes.