Introduction to Core Concepts for the Lesson

Sex and Gender in Biomedical Research : Understanding the Importance of Sex and Gender in Biomedical Research

"Imprinting and hormonal factors determine the developmental sequence and characteristics of biological systems, or sex, of the individual. Gender is the result of implanting an individual into a culture or society, which assigns them relative value and gives them specific roles to play by virtue of their biological sex. These factors are important determinants of health that affect the quality and function of biological systems." —Dr. Marianne Legato, Director, Partnership for Gender-Specific Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons¹

Lesson One Learning Objectives Upon completing this lesson, the participant will be able to: Define the terms “sex” and “gender” Give examples of confusion caused by synonymous use of the terms Give examples of appropriate applications of the terms "sex" and "gender" in biomedical research Describe two unethical research events that spurred policies to protect human subjects State three reasons women were historically excluded as subjects in clinical research