Articles tagged with Sex Determination
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A team of researchers has identified a common sex-determining gene called ANTSR in both bees and ants, revealing a conserved mechanism that has been present for over 150 million years. This finding sheds light on the genetic basis of sex determination in these species and may have implications for bee conservation and breeding programs.
Researchers identified X- and Y-linked sequences in Nautilus, indicating a more dynamic sex determination system than previously thought. The study's findings have implications for cephalopod biology and conservation.
New research from the University of Notre Dame finds that corporate boards with more women have fewer accidents and injuries on the job. Female directors can prioritize workplace safety and enhance regulatory compliance, leading to improved rule-following and protocols for safer work environments.
Researchers found that maternal iron deficiency can lead to male-to-female sex reversal in mouse embryos due to impaired Sry gene activation. Iron is necessary for KDM3A's enzymatic activity, which removes histone methylation allowing the Sry gene to become active.
A team of researchers from the University of Adelaide and other institutions has discovered a new sex-determination mechanism in monotremes, which include echidnas and platypuses. The AMHY gene plays a crucial role in determining sex in these animals, differing from the SRY gene found in all other mammals.
A study from Michigan Medicine researchers reveals that X-carrying and Y-carrying sperm compete for binding to Spindlins, influencing gene expression and the sex ratio. The findings suggest that this competition is crucial for maintaining the optimal balance of female and male offspring in mice.
Researchers at the University of Oregon identified a sex chromosome in the California two-spot octopus that has been around for 480 million years. This discovery sheds light on how cephalopods determine their sex and suggests that they have found an effective system that has remained unchanged over time.
A study found that ocean acidification can shift the sex ratio of oysters towards females, a mechanism known as environmental sex determination. This phenomenon was observed across multiple generations in both hatcheries and natural habitats, highlighting the potential impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.
Researchers have reconstructed the evolutionary origin of the complex configuration of multiple sex chromosomes in echidnas using their nearly gapless genome sequence. The high-quality data helped trace genetic events that led to this remarkable chromosomal arrangement, including chromosome fusion and fission events.
Researchers at UC Davis reveal a 40-million-year-old genetic mechanism controlling alternating sexes in walnuts, similar to human sex chromosomes. Two variants of a gene linked to flowering type balance each other, maintaining genetic variation and equilibrium.
A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals a new female-determining pathway in turtles, initiated by the transcription factor pSTAT3. Temperature-dependent sex determination in red-eared slider turtles is shown to result from antagonism between male and female signals.
Scientists have mapped the global repertoire of genes that determine the male or female sexual fates in Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites. This study reveals key regulators of gene expression during development and identifies novel candidate 'driver' genes, shedding light on the complex biology of malaria transmission.
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University found that genes on newly formed neo-sex chromosomes in fruit flies tend to evolve sex-biased genes, which give sex-specific phenotypes. This strongly supports the hypothesis that sex chromosomes reduce sexual conflict by imparting beneficial traits to each sex.
Researchers found that lithium's efficacy in enhancing longevity and altering body composition is influenced by the sucrose content of the diet. The study reveals a significant overlap between the transcriptional responses to increasing dietary sucrose and adding lithium, suggesting a joint mechanism at play.
A noncoding gene has been identified as the deciding factor in determining sex in Argentine ants, with a specific genomic region being crucial to this process. The gene does not encode a protein but rather produces an RNA that influences sex determination.
A team at Osaka University uses novel RNA sequencing techniques to reveal the molecular basis for sexual dimorphism in Daphnia, a species of water flea that can change its form and behavior despite being genetically identical. The study identifies genes that switch which isoforms are expressed in a sex-dependent manner.
Researchers have discovered a radically different molecular switch that determines sex in African butterflies, relying on recognition of sequence differences within the Masculinizer gene. This alternative mechanism leads to hypervariability of the Masculinizer gene and drives the production of more females than expected.
A study of 175 national and elite female athletes found that opinions on transgender athlete eligibility differ according to sport and level of competition. The majority (58%) support biological sex categorization, while a large majority (81%) believe sporting bodies should improve inclusivity for transgender athletes.
The team successfully created 'laboratory testicles' that closely simulate a natural testicle, allowing for the potential production of sperm cells in the lab. The artificial testicles were cultured from immature testicular cells sampled from neonatal mice and showed signs of meiosis, a process in which gametes are produced.
Researchers found that pollutants in green sea turtle eggs can feminize broods, increasing the risk of extinction due to a lack of males. The study suggests that climate change and pollution may be driving this trend, which could have severe consequences for the species' survival.
A team of researchers has identified a key gene responsible for ovarian development in mice, shedding light on the early stages of sex determination. The -KTS variant of WT1 is essential for female gonad formation, regardless of XX or XY chromosomes, and may hold clues to understanding disorders of sex development.
A research team at Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf identified a key gene and molecular mechanism that determine the sex of honeybees. The process is similar to a game involving two dice, where different protein variants activate a molecular switch for female development.
New research from Duke University reveals that warmer temperatures increase the number of germ cells, which play a crucial role in determining the sex of turtles. This finding may explain why temperature-dependent sex determination persists in many animals, despite seeming like a risky strategy.
A team led by Dr. Alex Harkess is using genomics to unlock the full potential of industrial hemp for sustainable production of fiber, protein, and oil. The project aims to create non-GMO hemp seed bred for multiple markets, leveraging traditional breeding, modern genomics, and agronomic expertise.
Researchers discovered that female rat brains have a smaller brain region due to immune cells consuming and digesting neurons, affecting behavior. Blocking this process resulted in females preferring their own odor or having no preference.
A new stem cell model allows researchers to study the earliest stages of sex determination in mice and humans, providing insights into Disorders of Sex Development (DSD). The model enables the creation of a 'mini testis' in a dish, which could lead to better understanding of DSD, infertility, and fertility restoration.
Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered a novel sex-determination mechanism in the Amami spiny rat, a species lacking the Y chromosome and Sry gene. The mechanism involves the upregulation of Sox9 gene on chromosome 3, induced by a new regulatory element similar to Enh14.
Researchers have discovered a new critical period for sex determination in sea turtle embryos, influenced by temperature fluctuations. The study reveals two peaks in temperature's impact on sex ratio during the thermosensitive period of development.
A study found that selective abortion of female fetuses is more pronounced among Indian diaspora, with lower sex ratios compared to natural range. The practice also affects Chinese diaspora, particularly in third pregnancies, where females are aborted less often than males.
A research team analyzed germ cells in chickens using RNA-sequencing to predict the mechanism that determines sex. The study reveals a mix of cell-autonomous and somatic-cell regulation, with sex determination occurring earlier in females than males.
Researchers found that high temperatures induce epigenetic changes in zebrafish embryos, leading to sex reversal and altering the sex ratio. This study provides insights into the mechanisms behind climate change's impact on species with genotype-by-environment sex determination.
Researchers discovered that sex differentiation in Bursaphelenchus nematodes occurs through a stochastic regulation mechanism, dependent on random events. This finding may help develop population engineering strategies for controlling nematode populations and mitigating plant diseases.
Researchers created a zebrafish model to study Bloom syndrome, uncovering similarities and species-specific novelties. The study found reduced fertility and shorter lifespan in mutant zebrafish, which are entirely male.
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University identified unifying features in the early evolution of X and Y chromosomes. They found common genetic compensation mechanisms, deterioration, and similarities between sex chromosomes derived from the same non-sex chromosome. These findings suggest universal traits in sex chromosome evolution.
New research by the universities of Kent, Warwick and Notre Dame has found that sex-selective abortion is lower in India districts with a Muslim state legislator. This is due to stronger stated preferences against abortion among Muslims compared to Hindus, making Muslim legislators more effective at reducing abortion rates.
Researchers have discovered that bearded dragon embryos can become females through two distinct pathways: one activated by sex chromosomes and the other by high temperatures during development. Ancient cellular processes are likely involved in temperature-dependent sex reversals.
Researchers at UC Davis propose a novel model of sex evolution before and during grapevine domestication, revealing the genetic basis of hermaphroditism. The study finds that female individuals arise from a recessive deletion in a gene necessary for pollen germination.
Severe damage to male maple trees caused them to flower as females two years later, suggesting a threshold for sex-determining cues. This research supports the idea that changes in sugar concentration in female trees might be a consequence of injury and physical damage.
A new analytical method has been developed to address the limitations of estimating evolutionary history of various sex-determination systems. The method, based on male mutation bias, reveals that some species share an XY system for several million years before it is lost, as recently as 20-60 million years ago in some lineages.
Researchers have discovered that house flies from different regions exhibit minor genetic differences in their Y chromosomes, yet display distinct sex determination mechanisms. The study suggests that natural selection may be responsible for maintaining these variations despite the apparent lack of significant genetic changes.
Scientists have identified a Y-chromosome linked gene called Maleness-on-the-Y that determines male sex in several major fruit fly pests. The discovery could lead to the development of more effective genetic control strategies for these destructive agricultural pests.
A new study from Iowa State University analyzed decades of data on painted turtle populations and found a wide variation in temperature sensitivity within local populations, defying theoretical expectations. The findings suggest that temperature-dependent sex determination may be more resilient to changes in temperature than previously...
Researchers discovered a link between cochlear shape and sex, enabling reliable sex determination from ancient remains. This breakthrough technique uses the cochlea's unique spiral shape to identify male and female individuals, including children and cases with DNA degradation.
Brazilian and German scientists have discovered genes linked to sex differentiation in the giant Amazon fish, enabling early sexing and paving the way for genetic improvement. The research, supported by FAPESP, has significant implications for the Brazilian aquaculture industry and the conservation of this iconic species.
New research suggests climate change could devastate painted turtle populations as temperature fluctuations disrupt the sex ratio, potentially leading to population collapse. The study found that warmer temperatures combined with stronger thermal fluctuations increase the risk of drastic shifts in demographics, ultimately threatening t...
University of Houston biologist Richard Meisel is investigating the sex determination of house flies, a process that differs from mammals. He aims to understand why genetic variation in male/female-determination exists across animals.
Researchers have developed a statistical approach to identify sexually diagnostic physical features in cremated bones, allowing for accurate sex determination of ancient remains. Eighteen skeletal traits were found to correlate strongly with sex, enabling archaeologists to differentiate male and female remains.
Researchers at the University of Konstanz have found a novel genomic mechanism for sex determination in swordtail fish, resulting from decades-long hybridisation experiments. The study reveals that introgression and selection of pigmentation phenotypes contribute to the rapid evolution of a new sex chromosome.
Researchers have identified a critical non-coding DNA element regulating the Sox9 gene, crucial for male sex development. Deleting this enhancer results in sex reversal in mice, shedding light on the genetic mechanisms underlying sex determination and potentially improving diagnosis for patients with differences in sex development.
Scientists successfully assembled and annotated the genome of California Yellowtail fish, a high-value species in the sashimi industry. The study improves understanding of sex determination and provides insights into developing more palatable farmed fish and optimizing aquaculture practices.
Researchers discovered a new gene, Mdmd, which determines male sex in houseflies. The gene is relatively large and similar to CWC22, and its loss leads to 'pregnant' males with mature eggs. This finding demonstrates the evolution of sex determination and has implications for developing sustainable pest control strategies.
A study in GENETICS identifies the first gene associated with temperature-dependent sex determination in reptiles, highlighting the role of genetic variation and climate change. The research found that a specific DNA sequence variation at the CIRBP gene influences sex ratio in snapping turtles.
Researchers have found that temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) in American alligators is linked to the thermosensor protein TRPV4. The study shows that warm temperatures activate cell signaling, influencing gene expression and leading to partial feminization at male-producing temperatures.
Researchers at OIST discovered two ancient genetic components involved in sex determination in ants. The study found that a mechanism called complementary sex determination is used, where females are diploid and males are haploid. This system has been linked to the evolution of sex determining genes dating back over 100 million years.
The house fly genome project has uncovered genes responsible for male traits that evolve exceptionally fast and are gained and lost from the genome at a high rate. These findings hold promise for developing pest control strategies that do not rely on chemical pesticides, by targeting sex determination systems.
A study from the University of Minnesota found that sex-specific transcription factors perform lifelong work to maintain sexual determination and protect against reprogramming of cells. The researchers identified key transcription factors responsible for maintaining sexual differentiation, including DMRT1 and FOXL2.
Researchers found a genetic process among rodents that challenges assumptions about sex determination and the pace of evolution. A novel protein domain added to the Sry gene acts as a genetic capacitor, providing protection against mutations but also allowing for rapid evolutionary change.
A study published in PLOS Genetics reveals that insulin and IGF1/IGF2 growth factors play a vital role in sexual development. In the absence of these hormones, embryos fail to differentiate into male or female, highlighting their essential role in primary sex determination.
Researchers at Purdue University have found a naturally occurring mutation in corn that eliminates the need for detasseling, a labor-intensive process. The mutation, which affects brassinosteroids, results in plants that produce only female organs, including kernels where male tassels should be.
Researchers discovered B chromosomes causing female-biased sex-ratios in a species of cichlid fish from Lake Victoria. The study also identified multiple protein-coding genes in the B chromosomes, suggesting their role in sex determination.