Sexual dimorphism are a recognized source of biological variation in the immune system, with men  displaying lower immune responses to infections and vaccination compared to women. 

To investigate this in depth, we plan an interventional study with transgender persons, using vaccination as a model. Transgender persons receiving gender- affirming hormone therapy represent an interesting population as they retain their chromosomal sex while undergoing a profound hormonal shift.

Vaccine-induced immune responses after 2 doses of a MenB vaccine in 60 transgender individuals will be characterized and compared with 60 cisgender individuals. Cutting-edge system vaccinology techniques will assess innate and adaptive immune responses, along with transcriptomic and epigenetic responses.

Next to advancing our understanding on sex differences immune function, it will offer unique insights into the impact of gender-affirming hormonal therapy on immune responses in transgender persons.