New genes for boys
- Univ. of Melbourne (Australia)
Sex is a fascinating topic, particularly at the level of molecular genetics, since it represents a wonderful paradigm for mammalian organ development. Recently, interest in the molecular basis for mammalian sex determination has been heating up as new pieces are added to the jigsaw puzzle of testis development. In mammals, the Y chromosome is male determining and encodes a gene referred to as TDF (testis-determining factor), which induces the indifferent embryonic gonad to develop as a testis. Subsequent male sexual differentiation is largely a consequence of hormonal secretion from the testis. In the absence of the Y chromosome, the testis-determining pathway fails to be initiated, and the embryonic gonad develops as an ovary, resulting in female development. 32 refs.
- OSTI ID:
- 209889
- Journal Information:
- American Journal of Human Genetics, Vol. 57, Issue 5; Other Information: PBD: Nov 1995
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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