Anthropometric and Physiologic Differences

Anthropometric and Physiologic Differences in Men and Women

Differences in the ratio between the index (2D) and ring finger (4D) between men (index shorter than ring finger) and women (index longer than ring finger) have been known for a long time. We also know that some men have a more female ratio and vice versa. However, only recently have there been studies looking into the cause of that difference and how it could affect other parts of the body and their function. Surprisingly, most papers published within the last 5-7 years focus more on behavioral aspects than anatomical and physiological differences. As such, this project aims to examine some of the correlates of the 2D/4D ratio and whether this ratio could be used as a medical screening tool for certain types of diseases and health conditions.

This research area provides extensive opportunities for undergraduate scholarship. So far twelve students presented a total of seven posters at national conferences (2015 Annual HAPS (Human Anatomy & Physiology Society) Conference, 2016 National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR), 2016 Annual HAPS (Human Anatomy & Physiology Society) Conference).

Reuter, P., Jaasko, N.-O., Gonzalez, C. A. Correlation of 2D:4D ratio, vital lung capacity and self-reported athletic ability in women. 2015 Annual HAPS (Human Anatomy & Physiology Society) Conference, San Antonio, Texas (May 23-27, 2015)

Reuter, P., Correnti, G. Is there a correlation between in-utero exposure to sex hormones, age of first menstruation, sexual orientation and prevalence of PCOS? 2015 Annual HAPS (Human Anatomy & Physiology Society) Conference, San Antonio, Texas (May 23-27, 2015)

Jaasko, N.-O., Gonzalez, C. A. Correlation of 2D:4D ratio, vital lung capacity and self-reported athletic ability in women. 2016 National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR), Asheville, North Carolina (April 5-8, 2016)

Reuter, P., Britton, A., Gering, S., Murray Bundy, B. Are male & female students with a masculine 2D:4D ratio more likely to be involved in athletic activities that require above average hand grip strength? 2016 Annual HAPS (Human Anatomy & Physiology Society) Conference, Atlanta, Georgia (May 21-25, 2016)

Reuter, P., Jaasko, N.-O., Gonzalez, C. A. Correlation of 2D:4D ratio, vital lung capacity and athletic activity in male and female students. 2016 Annual HAPS (Human Anatomy & Physiology Society) Conference, Atlanta, Georgia (May 21-25, 2016)