Digit ratio (2D:4D) and salivary testosterone, oestradiol and cortisol levels under challenge: Evidence for prenatal effects on adult endocrine responses

Crewther, Blair, Cook, Christian, Kilduff, Liam and Manning, John (2015) Digit ratio (2D:4D) and salivary testosterone, oestradiol and cortisol levels under challenge: Evidence for prenatal effects on adult endocrine responses. Early Human Development, 91 (8). pp. 451-456. ISSN 0378-3782

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Abstract

Background - Digit ratio (2D:4D) is a marker for prenatal sex steroids and a correlate of sporting performance. This association may exist because low 2D:4D is linked to high prenatal levels of testosterone (T) and low oestrogens (E). It was recently suggested that low 2D:4D, and particularly low right-left 2D:4D (or Dr-l), is a marker for T changes in response to physical and aggressive challenges. If correct, this link may in part explain the association between 2D:4D and sports performance.

Study design - Three experimental treatments were completed using a randomised, cross-over design; (i) cycle sprints plus an aggressive video (S + V), (ii) aggressive video plus cycle sprints (V + S), and (iii) a control session.

Results -
The S + V treatment was associated with a rise in T and C levels, and Dr-l was significantly and negatively correlated with T and E2 with these effects confined to men. The right 2D:4D and Dr-l were also negatively correlated with the T/C ratio and Dr-l negatively related to the E2/C ratio in men during the S + V treatment.

Conclusions We suggest that the hormonal responses to a challenge are programmed by prenatal levels of T and E with possible links to sporting performance in adulthood.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Testosterone; Oestrogens; Development; Stress; Exercise
Subjects:	C800 Psychology
Department:	Faculties > Health and Life Sciences > Psychology
Depositing User:	Becky Skoyles
Date Deposited:	11 Aug 2015 10:00
Last Modified:	10 Oct 2019 16:18
URI:	http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/23537

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