Khaberni - The French specialist doctor Philippe Bellisier expressed his scientific opinion regarding Algerian boxing champion Iman Khalif and the allegations pursuing her about her sexual identity.
Dr. Bellisier posted a video on his official social media accounts in which he scientifically proved that Iman Khalif is biologically female and not a "transgender" as some campaigns have claimed.
The doctor did not deny in a video he posted on his official Instagram page that Iman Khalif's case involves genetic complexities.
Bellisier highlighted that the "SRY" gene may sometimes transfer between "X" and "Y" chromosomes, allowing an individual to possess a female phenotypic expression while naturally producing higher male hormones.
What is the SRY gene?
It is a gene naturally found on the Y chromosome (male chromosome). Its primary function is to instruct the body to begin developing male reproductive organs.
How does the SRY gene work?
In the first few weeks of pregnancy, the fetus is "neutral," meaning it has the potential to develop into either a male or a female. The determination process begins as follows:
* Activation: Around the sixth or seventh week of the fetus's age, the SRY gene "awakens."
* Protein: The gene produces a protein called TDF (Testis Determining Factor).
* Pathway alteration: This protein stimulates the primary reproductive tissues to transform into testes rather than ovaries.
* Hormone secretion: Once the testes are formed, they begin to secrete the hormone "testosterone," which is responsible for the development of other male characteristics.
What happens if the SRY gene is absent?
* Normal condition (XX): In the absence of the Y chromosome (and thus the SRY gene), the fetus develops automatically into a female.
* Exceptional cases: In very rare medical cases, the SRY gene may transfer to the X chromosome, or it may stop functioning despite its presence, leading to a mismatch between the chromosomes and the external appearance.
The doctor, who works as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in Paris, confirmed that Iman Khalif is a female athlete, born and raised as a woman and not transgender.
Bellisier considered that Khalif's journey reflects great courage, as she had to follow strict protocols to reduce her testosterone levels.
Iman Khalif: I am a woman and not transgender
The Algerian boxer Iman Khalif previously stated that she is prepared to comply with any procedures required of her to participate in competitions, including undergoing a genetic test to determine sexual identity, provided that these tests are conducted under the supervision of the International Olympic Committee.
In May, the Global Boxing Federation, which will oversee the boxing competitions at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics after receiving temporary recognition from the International Olympic Committee, announced the imposition of mandatory sexual identity tests on all participating female boxers.
Iman won the gold medal in the women's middleweight during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games amid widespread controversy about her sexual identity and eligibility to participate, after the International Boxing Federation excluded her from the 2023 World Championship following tests in this regard.
