Sex-Based Differences in Lung Gene Networks Identified by Australian Study

Researchers have reported new findings on how biological sex influences lung function at the molecular level, highlighting differences in gene networks between males and females even in healthy conditions.

The study was conducted by the University of Technology Sydney and the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research. It focused on the molecular characteristics of male and female lungs, examining how gene networks operate differently based on sex.

According to the published research, male lungs display higher reactivity to inhaled substances compared to female lungs. This difference was attributed to the activity of coordinated gene networks rather than the influence of a single gene or hormone.

The research team used a preclinical model that isolated the effects of the X and Y chromosomes, allowing them to study biological sex as a single genetic variable. This approach enabled the identification of sex-specific patterns in bronchial responsiveness under normal physiological conditions.

What the numbers show

• The study was published on February 12, 2026
• Research appeared in the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology journal
• The project involved collaboration between two Australian research institutions

Researchers also examined how early-life environmental exposures affect these gene networks. The findings indicated that such exposures can alter molecular pathways in a sex-specific manner, which may influence susceptibility to respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD later in life.

The study's results emphasize the need for sex-inclusive approaches in biomedical and environmental health research. The authors stated that considering sex as a variable from the earliest research stages can improve understanding of respiratory health differences.

The research contributes to a broader understanding of how genetic and environmental factors interact to shape respiratory health. By focusing on gene network activity, the study provides new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying sex differences in lung function.

The publication of this study in a peer-reviewed journal supports the ongoing effort to incorporate sex-based analysis in scientific investigations related to respiratory diseases and health outcomes.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.