Why Do Women Have More Autoimmune Diseases? Study Points to X Chromosome

February 1, 2024

An digital image of an X chromosome

(New York Times) – Women are much more likely than men to have their immune system turn against them, resulting in an array of so-called autoimmune diseases, like lupus and multiple sclerosis. A study published on Thursday offers an explanation rooted in the X chromosome.

The research, published in the journal Cell, suggests that a special set of molecules that act on the extra X chromosome carried by women can sometimes confuse the immune system. (Read More)