As an expert in the field of genetics and developmental biology, I can provide an in-depth explanation of what causes a hermaphrodite, which is a term that has traditionally been used to describe individuals with both male and female reproductive organs. However, it's important to note that the term "hermaphrodite" is considered outdated and potentially offensive in contemporary scientific and medical discussions. The more appropriate term is "intersex," which refers to a variety of conditions in which an individual is born with reproductive or sexual anatomy that doesn't fit the typical definitions of male or female.

**Step 1: Understanding Intersex Conditions**

Intersex conditions are a result of differences in sex development (DSD), which is a broader category that encompasses a range of differences in the development of reproductive organs and sex characteristics. These conditions can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to various factors.

The development of an individual's sex characteristics is a complex process that involves a delicate interplay of genetic and hormonal factors. The primary sex-determining factor is the presence of sex chromosomes. Typically, males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY), while females have two X chromosomes (XX). However, there are variations in this pattern that can lead to intersex conditions.

Genetic Factors:


1. Sex Chromosome Abnormalities: Conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome (XXY), Turner syndrome (X0), and others can lead to the development of intersex characteristics. For example, individuals with Klinefelter syndrome may have both male and female secondary sex characteristics.


2. Gene Mutations: Mutations in genes responsible for sex development can also result in intersex traits. One such gene is SRY (sex-determining region Y), which is typically found on the Y chromosome and initiates male development. Mutations in the SRY gene can lead to a failure in male development.

Hormonal Factors:


1. Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome: This is a condition where an individual with XY chromosomes is resistant to androgens, leading to the development of external female genitalia despite having testes.


2. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): In this condition, the adrenal glands overproduce male hormones, which can cause a female fetus to develop ambiguous genitalia.

Environmental Factors:

While the primary causes of intersex conditions are genetic and hormonal, there is some evidence to suggest that environmental factors may also play a role. As mentioned in the reference provided, there have been studies in animals that link exposure to certain environmental chemicals, such as pesticides, to the development of intersex traits. However, more research is needed to fully understand the extent and mechanisms of this relationship in humans.

**Step 2: Outputting "read more >>

The external genitals may be ambiguous or may appear to be female or male. This condition used to be called true hermaphroditism. In most people with true gonadal intersex, the underlying cause is unknown, although in some animal studies it has been linked to exposure to common agricultural pesticides.Sep 5, 2017read more >>