Sex disparities in influenza: a multiscale network analysis (Male ferrets)

This study utilized a network-based approach to characterize the blood transcriptome collected over the course of infection with influenza A virus from female and male ferrets to dissect sex-biased gene expression shaped by genetically determined differences. It provides molecular insights into genetically driven sex differences in transcriptional regulation of immune responses. Overall design: Whole blood transcriptome profiles from 36 male ferrets were measured at days 1, 3, 5, and 8 post infection. Plaque assays were performed to determine the viral burden from nasal swabs. The relative weight of each animal was determined at corresponding time points.