Abstract
In mammals, the Y chromosome induces testis formation and thus male sexual development; in the absence of a Y chromosome, gonads differentiate into ovaries and female development ensues. Molecular genetic studies have identified the Y-located testis determining gene SRY as well as autosomal and X-linked genes necessary for gonadal development. The phenotypes resulting from mutation of these genes, together with their patterns of expression, provide the basis for establishing a hierarchy of genes and their interactions in the mammalian sex determination pathway.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Biological Evolution
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DNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
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DNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism
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Disorders of Sex Development
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Female
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Humans
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Male
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Mammals / genetics
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Nuclear Proteins*
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Ovary
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Phenotype
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RNA Splicing Factors
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RNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
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Sex Characteristics
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Sex Determination Analysis*
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Sex-Determining Region Y Protein
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Testis
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Transcription Factors / genetics
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WT1 Proteins
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X Chromosome*
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Y Chromosome*
Substances
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DNA-Binding Proteins
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Nuclear Proteins
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RNA Splicing Factors
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RNA-Binding Proteins
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SF1 protein, human
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SRY protein, human
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Sex-Determining Region Y Protein
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Transcription Factors
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WT1 Proteins