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Luo X, Guo J, Zhang J, Ma Z, Li H. Overview of chicken embryo genes related to sex differentiation. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17072. [PMID: 38525278 PMCID: PMC10959104 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Sex determination in chickens at an early embryonic stage has been a longstanding challenge in poultry production due to the unique ZZ:ZW sex chromosome system and various influencing factors. This review has summarized the genes related to the sex differentiation of chicken early embryos (mainly Dmrt1, Sox9, Amh, Cyp19a1, Foxl2, Tle4z1, Jun, Hintw, Ube2i, Spin1z, Hmgcs1, Foxd1, Tox3, Ddx4, cHemgn and Serpinb11 in this article), and has found that these contributions enhance our understanding of the genetic basis of sex determination in chickens, while identifying potential gene targets for future research. This knowledge may inform and guide the development of sex screening technologies for hatching eggs and support advancements in gene-editing approaches for chicken embryos. Moreover, these insights offer hope for enhancing animal welfare and promoting conservation efforts in poultry production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolu Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiancheng Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiahang Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Zheng Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Hua Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong, China
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Zhang X, Li J, Chen S, Yang N, Zheng J. Overview of Avian Sex Reversal. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098284. [PMID: 37175998 PMCID: PMC10179413 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex determination and differentiation are processes by which a bipotential gonad adopts either a testicular or ovarian cell fate, and secondary sexual characteristics adopt either male or female developmental patterns. In birds, although genetic factors control the sex determination program, sex differentiation is sensitive to hormones, which can induce sex reversal when disturbed. Although these sex-reversed birds can form phenotypes opposite to their genotypes, none can experience complete sex reversal or produce offspring under natural conditions. Promising evidence indicates that the incomplete sex reversal is associated with cell autonomous sex identity (CASI) of avian cells, which is controlled by genetic factors. However, studies cannot clearly describe the regulatory mechanism of avian CASI and sex development at present, and these factors require further exploration. In spite of this, the abundant findings of avian sex research have provided theoretical bases for the progress of gender control technologies, which are being improved through interdisciplinary co-operation and will ultimately be employed in poultry production. In this review, we provide an overview of avian sex determination and differentiation and comprehensively summarize the research progress on sex reversal in birds, especially chickens. Importantly, we describe key issues faced by applying gender control systems in poultry production and chronologically summarize the development of avian sex control methods. In conclusion, this review provides unique perspectives for avian sex studies and helps scientists develop more advanced systems for sex regulation in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuan Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jianbo Li
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sirui Chen
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jiangxia Zheng
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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3
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Gómez-Redondo I, Planells B, Navarrete P, Gutiérrez-Adán A. Role of Alternative Splicing in Sex Determination in Vertebrates. Sex Dev 2021; 15:381-391. [PMID: 34583366 DOI: 10.1159/000519218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During the process of sex determination, a germ-cell-containing undifferentiated gonad is converted into either a male or a female reproductive organ. Both the composition of sex chromosomes and the environment determine sex in vertebrates. It is assumed that transcription level regulation drives this cascade of mechanisms; however, transcription factors can alter gene expression beyond transcription initiation by controlling pre-mRNA splicing and thereby mRNA isoform production. Using the key time window in sex determination and gonad development in mice, it has been reported that new non-transcriptional events, such as alternative splicing, could play a key role in sex determination in mammals. We know the role of key regulatory factors, like WT1(+/-KTS) or FGFR2(b/c) in pre-mRNA splicing and sex determination, indicating that important steps in the vertebrate sex determination process probably operate at a post-transcriptional level. Here, we discuss the role of pre-mRNA splicing regulators in sex determination in vertebrates, focusing on the new RNA-seq data reported from mice fetal gonadal transcriptome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamín Planells
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA, Madrid, Spain.,School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Estermann MA, Major AT, Smith CA. Genetic Regulation of Avian Testis Development. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1459. [PMID: 34573441 PMCID: PMC8470383 DOI: 10.3390/genes12091459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As in other vertebrates, avian testes are the site of spermatogenesis and androgen production. The paired testes of birds differentiate during embryogenesis, first marked by the development of pre-Sertoli cells in the gonadal primordium and their condensation into seminiferous cords. Germ cells become enclosed in these cords and enter mitotic arrest, while steroidogenic Leydig cells subsequently differentiate around the cords. This review describes our current understanding of avian testis development at the cell biology and genetic levels. Most of this knowledge has come from studies on the chicken embryo, though other species are increasingly being examined. In chicken, testis development is governed by the Z-chromosome-linked DMRT1 gene, which directly or indirectly activates the male factors, HEMGN, SOX9 and AMH. Recent single cell RNA-seq has defined cell lineage specification during chicken testis development, while comparative studies point to deep conservation of avian testis formation. Lastly, we identify areas of future research on the genetics of avian testis development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Craig Allen Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (M.A.E.); (A.T.M.)
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Pan Q, Kay T, Depincé A, Adolfi M, Schartl M, Guiguen Y, Herpin A. Evolution of master sex determiners: TGF-β signalling pathways at regulatory crossroads. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200091. [PMID: 34247498 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
To date, more than 20 different vertebrate master sex-determining genes have been identified on different sex chromosomes of mammals, birds, frogs and fish. Interestingly, six of these genes are transcription factors (Dmrt1- or Sox3- related) and 13 others belong to the TGF-β signalling pathway (Amh, Amhr2, Bmpr1b, Gsdf and Gdf6). This pattern suggests that only a limited group of factors/signalling pathways are prone to become top regulators again and again. Although being clearly a subordinate member of the sex-regulatory network in mammals, the TGF-β signalling pathway made it to the top recurrently and independently. Facing this rolling wave of TGF-β signalling pathways, this review will decipher how the TGF-β signalling pathways cope with the canonical sex gene regulatory network and challenge the current evolutionary concepts accounting for the diversity of sex-determining mechanisms. This article is part of the theme issue 'Challenging the paradigm in sex chromosome evolution: empirical and theoretical insights with a focus on vertebrates (Part I)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaowei Pan
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tomas Kay
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Mateus Adolfi
- University of Würzburg, Developmental Biochemistry, Biocenter, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Manfred Schartl
- University of Würzburg, Developmental Biochemistry, Biocenter, 97074 Würzburg, Germany.,Xiphophorus Genetic Stock Center, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
| | - Yann Guiguen
- INRAE, UR 1037 Fish Physiology and Genomics, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Amaury Herpin
- INRAE, UR 1037 Fish Physiology and Genomics, 35000 Rennes, France.,State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081 Hunan, People's Republic of China
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Schartl M, Schories S, Wakamatsu Y, Nagao Y, Hashimoto H, Bertin C, Mourot B, Schmidt C, Wilhelm D, Centanin L, Guiguen Y, Herpin A. Sox5 is involved in germ-cell regulation and sex determination in medaka following co-option of nested transposable elements. BMC Biol 2018; 16:16. [PMID: 29378592 PMCID: PMC5789577 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-018-0485-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sex determination relies on a hierarchically structured network of genes, and is one of the most plastic processes in evolution. The evolution of sex-determining genes within a network, by neo- or sub-functionalization, also requires the regulatory landscape to be rewired to accommodate these novel gene functions. We previously showed that in medaka fish, the regulatory landscape of the master male-determining gene dmrt1bY underwent a profound rearrangement, concomitantly with acquiring a dominant position within the sex-determining network. This rewiring was brought about by the exaptation of a transposable element (TE) called Izanagi, which is co-opted to act as a silencer to turn off the dmrt1bY gene after it performed its function in sex determination. Results We now show that a second TE, Rex1, has been incorporated into Izanagi. The insertion of Rex1 brought in a preformed regulatory element for the transcription factor Sox5, which here functions in establishing the temporal and cell-type-specific expression pattern of dmrt1bY. Mutant analysis demonstrates the importance of Sox5 in the gonadal development of medaka, and possibly in mice, in a dmrt1bY-independent manner. Moreover, Sox5 medaka mutants have complete female-to-male sex reversal. Conclusions Our work reveals an unexpected complexity in TE-mediated transcriptional rewiring, with the exaptation of a second TE into a network already rewired by a TE. We also show a dual role for Sox5 during sex determination: first, as an evolutionarily conserved regulator of germ-cell number in medaka, and second, by de novo regulation of dmrt1 transcriptional activity during primary sex determination due to exaptation of the Rex1 transposable element. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12915-018-0485-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manfred Schartl
- Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital, 97080, Würzburg, Germany.,Texas Institute for Advanced Study and Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Susanne Schories
- Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Yuko Wakamatsu
- Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Yusuke Nagao
- Bioscience and Biotechnology Center, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hisashi Hashimoto
- Bioscience and Biotechnology Center, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Chloé Bertin
- INRA, UR1037 Fish Physiology and Genomics, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Brigitte Mourot
- INRA, UR1037 Fish Physiology and Genomics, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Cornelia Schmidt
- Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Dagmar Wilhelm
- Department of Anatomy & Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Lazaro Centanin
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yann Guiguen
- INRA, UR1037 Fish Physiology and Genomics, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Amaury Herpin
- Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany. .,INRA, UR1037 Fish Physiology and Genomics, F-35000, Rennes, France.
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7
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Sreenivasulu K, Ganesh S, Raman R. Evolutionarily conserved, DMRT1, encodes alternatively spliced transcripts and shows dimorphic expression during gonadal differentiation in the lizard, Calotes versicolor. Mech Dev 2016; 119 Suppl 1:S55-64. [PMID: 14516661 DOI: 10.1016/s0925-4773(03)00092-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
An orthologue of Dmrt1 has been cloned and characterized in the lizard, Calotes versicolor (CvDmrt1). CvDmrt1 encodes alternatively spliced transcripts in genital ridge during gonadal differentiation and in adult testis. Its expression in genital ridge initiates from day 3 and is restricted to mesenchymal cells, which differentiate into the Sertoli cells. Lack of expression in the coelomic epithelium of GR shows that CvDmrt1 expression occurs only in the testicular pathway, and that the Sertoli and granulosa cells in GR may originate from different primordia. From day 25 onwards, the expression shifts majorly towards the germ cells both in testis and ovary. Thus its role in sexual differentiation of C. versicolor, which lacks CSD and TSD, is well documented.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sreenivasulu
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
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Ayers KL, Lambeth LS, Davidson NM, Sinclair AH, Oshlack A, Smith CA. Identification of candidate gonadal sex differentiation genes in the chicken embryo using RNA-seq. BMC Genomics 2015; 16:704. [PMID: 26377738 PMCID: PMC4574023 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-015-1886-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite some advances in recent years, the genetic control of gonadal sex differentiation during embryogenesis is still not completely understood. To identify new candidate genes involved in ovary and testis development, RNA-seq was used to define the transcriptome of embryonic chicken gonads at the onset of sexual differentiation (day 6.0/stage 29). RESULTS RNA-seq revealed more than 1000 genes that were transcribed in a sex-biased manner at this early stage of gonadal differentiation. Comparison with undifferentiated gonads revealed that sex biased expression was derived primarily from autosomal rather than sex-linked genes. Gene ontology and pathway analysis indicated that many of these genes encoded proteins involved in extracellular matrix function and cytoskeletal remodelling, as well as tubulogenesis. Several of these genes are novel candidate regulators of gonadal sex differentiation, based on sex-biased expression profiles that are altered following experimental sex reversal. We further characterised three female-biased (ovarian) genes; calpain-5 (CAPN5), G-protein coupled receptor 56 (GPR56), and FGFR3 (fibroblast growth factor receptor 3). Protein expression of these candidates in the developing ovaries suggests that they play an important role in this tissue. CONCLUSIONS This study provides insight into the earliest steps of vertebrate gonad sex differentiation, and identifies novel candidate genes for ovarian and testicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie L Ayers
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, 3052, Parkville, VIC, Australia. .,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Luke S Lambeth
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, 3052, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Nadia M Davidson
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, 3052, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Andrew H Sinclair
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, 3052, Parkville, VIC, Australia. .,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Alicia Oshlack
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, 3052, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Craig A Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.
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Schmid M, Smith J, Burt DW, Aken BL, Antin PB, Archibald AL, Ashwell C, Blackshear PJ, Boschiero C, Brown CT, Burgess SC, Cheng HH, Chow W, Coble DJ, Cooksey A, Crooijmans RPMA, Damas J, Davis RVN, de Koning DJ, Delany ME, Derrien T, Desta TT, Dunn IC, Dunn M, Ellegren H, Eöry L, Erb I, Farré M, Fasold M, Fleming D, Flicek P, Fowler KE, Frésard L, Froman DP, Garceau V, Gardner PP, Gheyas AA, Griffin DK, Groenen MAM, Haaf T, Hanotte O, Hart A, Häsler J, Hedges SB, Hertel J, Howe K, Hubbard A, Hume DA, Kaiser P, Kedra D, Kemp SJ, Klopp C, Kniel KE, Kuo R, Lagarrigue S, Lamont SJ, Larkin DM, Lawal RA, Markland SM, McCarthy F, McCormack HA, McPherson MC, Motegi A, Muljo SA, Münsterberg A, Nag R, Nanda I, Neuberger M, Nitsche A, Notredame C, Noyes H, O'Connor R, O'Hare EA, Oler AJ, Ommeh SC, Pais H, Persia M, Pitel F, Preeyanon L, Prieto Barja P, Pritchett EM, Rhoads DD, Robinson CM, Romanov MN, Rothschild M, Roux PF, Schmidt CJ, Schneider AS, Schwartz MG, Searle SM, Skinner MA, Smith CA, Stadler PF, Steeves TE, Steinlein C, Sun L, Takata M, Ulitsky I, Wang Q, Wang Y, Warren WC, Wood JMD, Wragg D, Zhou H. Third Report on Chicken Genes and Chromosomes 2015. Cytogenet Genome Res 2015; 145:78-179. [PMID: 26282327 PMCID: PMC5120589 DOI: 10.1159/000430927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schmid
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Ma L, Wang W, Yang X, Jiang J, Song H, Jiang H, Zhang Q, Qi J. Characterization of the Dmrt1 gene in the black rockfish Sebastes schlegeli revealed a remarkable sex-dimorphic expression. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2014; 40:1263-1274. [PMID: 24566822 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-014-9921-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The Dmrt genes encode a large family of transcription factors with a conserved zinc finger-like DNA-binding DM domain. The function of Dmrt1, one of the family members, in sexual development has been well studied in invertebrates and vertebrates. In the present study, the full-length cDNA of Dmrt1 was isolated from the testis of Sebastes schlegeli. The full-length cDNA of S. schlegeli Dmrt1 (SsDmrt1) was 1,587 bp and contained a 189-bp 5' UTR, a 489-bp 3' UTR and a 909-bp open reading frame, which encoded 302 amino acids with a conserved DM domain and an male-specific motif domain. Phylogenetic analysis showed the evolutionary relationships of SsDmrt1 with other known Dmrt genes in fish and tetrapods. Several transcriptional factor-binding sites in the 5' promoter were identified that might regulate SsDmrt1 expression. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis indicated that SsDmrt1 was expressed in all of the inspected larval developmental stages from 1 to 35 days after birth and that the level of expression gradually decreased. The expression of SsDmrt1 in adult gonads was sexually dimorphic with extremely high expression in the testis, but very low expression in the ovary. No expression was detected in other tissues. Using in situ hybridization, we demonstrated that SsDmrt1 was specifically expressed in the germ cells of both the testis and the ovary. Thus, our results suggest that SsDmrt1 may have an important role in the differentiation of both the testis and the ovary of S. schlegeli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liman Ma
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Education, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, People's Republic of China
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Yang Y, Gong P, Feng YP, Li SJ, Peng XL, Ran ZP, Qian YG, Gong YZ. Temporospatial expression of Dmrt1 in chicken urogenital system (Gallus gallus) using whole mount in situ hybridization. ACTA BIOLOGICA HUNGARICA 2013; 64:161-8. [PMID: 23739885 DOI: 10.1556/abiol.64.2013.2.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Doublesex and mab-3-related transcription factor 1 (Dmrt1) is a Z-linked gene that putatively determines the phenotype of gonads in birds. The sex differential expression of Dmrt1 was examined using wholemount in situ hybridization (WISH) in the urogenital systems during embryogenesis. The results revealed that Dmrt1 showed dimorphic expression in chicken gonads, which increased from day 6.5 to day 10.5. The expression of Dmrt1 in male (ZZ) gonads was not twice as much as in female (ZW) gonads, suggesting the existence of other regulatory mechanisms in addition to Z chromosome dosage effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Yang
- Huazhong Agricultural University Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Wuhan Hubei, People's Republic of China
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12
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Miyake Y, Sakai Y, Kuniyoshi H. Molecular cloning and expression profile of sex-specific genes, Figla and Dmrt1, in the protogynous hermaphroditic fish, Halichoeres poecilopterus. Zoolog Sci 2012; 29:690-701. [PMID: 23030342 DOI: 10.2108/zsj.29.690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The genes folliculogenesis specific basic helix-loop-helix (facor in the germline alpha, Figla) and doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 1 (Dmrt1) are female- and male-specific genes that play key roles in sex differentiation. To obtain a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying female-to-male sex change, we cloned the cDNAs of these genes from an ovary and a testis of the protogynus wrasse, Halichoeres poecilopterus. This fish has two isoforms of Dmrt1, Dmrt1a and Dmrt1b, caused by an alternative splicing. The Dmrt1b has an insertion of three nucleotides (CAG) in the open reading frame. Figla and Dmrt1 displayed gonadal-specific expression and abundant in the ovaries and in the testes, respectively. In particular, levels of Figla expression in the ovaries were higher in the spawning season than in the non-spawning season. Once sex change began, Figla mRNA decreased and Dmrt1 mRNA increased with progression of oocyte degeneration and spermatogenesis. These expression levels were maintained until the completion of the sex change. Low Figla and high Dmrt1 were also observed in testes of primary males, which functioned as a gonochoristic male throughout its life span in this wrasse. The results of this study suggest that these genes may regulate the gonadal transition from ovary to testis by the same mechanism as that of formation and maintenance of the primary testis in H. poecilopterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Miyake
- Department of Bioresource Science, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Kagamiyama 1-4-4, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8528, Japan.
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Yan H, Ijiri S, Wu Q, Kobayashi T, Li S, Nakaseko T, Adachi S, Nagahama Y. Expression Patterns of Gonadotropin Hormones and Their Receptors During Early Sexual Differentiation in Nile Tilapia Oreochromis niloticus1. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:116. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.101220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Konno D, Iwashita M, Satoh Y, Momiyama A, Abe T, Kiyonari H, Matsuzaki F. The mammalian DM domain transcription factor Dmrta2 is required for early embryonic development of the cerebral cortex. PLoS One 2012; 7:e46577. [PMID: 23056351 PMCID: PMC3462758 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0046577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Development of the mammalian telencephalon is precisely organized by a combination of extracellular signaling events derived from signaling centers and transcription factor networks. Using gene expression profiling of the developing mouse dorsal telencephalon, we found that the DM domain transcription factor Dmrta2 (doublesex and mab-3-related transcription factor a2) is involved in the development of the dorsal telencephalon. Consistent with its medial-high/lateral-low expression pattern in the dorsal telencephalon, Dmrta2 null mutants demonstrated a dramatic reduction in medial cortical structures such as the cortical hem and the choroid plexus, and a complete loss of the hippocampus. In this mutant, the dorsal telencephalon also showed a remarkable size reduction, in addition to abnormal cell cycle kinetics and defective patterning. In contrast, a conditional Dmrta2 deletion in the telencephalon, which was accomplished after entry into the neurogenic phase, resulted in only a slight reduction in telencephalon size and normal patterning. We also found that Dmrta2 expression was decreased by a dominant-negative Tcf and was increased by a stabilized β-catenin form. These data suggest that Dmrta2 plays pivotal roles in the early development of the telencephalon via the formation of the cortical hem, a source of Wnts, and also in the maintenance of neural progenitors as a downstream of the Wnt pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daijiro Konno
- Laboratory for Cell Asymmetry, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
- * E-mail: (DK); (FM)
| | - Misato Iwashita
- Laboratory for Cell Asymmetry, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Satoh
- Laboratory for Cell Asymmetry, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Asuka Momiyama
- Laboratory for Cell Asymmetry, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Takaya Abe
- Laboratory for Animal Resources and Genetic Engineering, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kiyonari
- Laboratory for Animal Resources and Genetic Engineering, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Fumio Matsuzaki
- Laboratory for Cell Asymmetry, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
- * E-mail: (DK); (FM)
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15
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Wu GC, Chiu PC, Lin CJ, Lyu YS, Lan DS, Chang CF. Testicular dmrt1 Is Involved in the Sexual Fate of the Ovotestis in the Protandrous Black Porgy1. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:41. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.095695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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16
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Dadhich RK, Barrionuevo FJ, Lupiañez DG, Real FM, Burgos M, Jiménez R. Expression of genes controlling testicular development in adult testis of the seasonally breeding iberian mole. Sex Dev 2011; 5:77-88. [PMID: 21412037 DOI: 10.1159/000323805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2010] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Most testicular features undergo major circannual variation in seasonal breeding species. Although the ultimate cause of these variations is known to be the photoperiod in most cases, very little is known about the genetic mechanisms by which these changes are modulated in the testis. Many genes involved in testis development are known to be expressed in the adult testis as well. Since these genes encode genetic regulatory factors, it is reasonable to suspect that they could play some role in the control of the adult testis function. Using immunological detection techniques and RT-Q-PCR, we have studied the spatio-temporal expression pattern of WT1, SF1, SOX9, AMH, and DMRT1 in 4 representative stages of the circannual cycle of the testes of Talpa occidentalis, a mole species with strict seasonal reproduction. AMH is not expressed at any stage of the cycle, showing that inactive adult testes are functionally different from pre-pubertal, juvenile ones. The continuous presence of primary spermatocytes may explain the permanent repression of AMH in the mole testis. WT1 and SF1 are down-regulated and SOX9 is up-regulated in regressed mole testes, suggesting that the modulation of the expression of these genes may be involved in the control of circannual gonad variation. Furthermore, SOX9 and DMRT1 show clear spermatogenic stage-dependent expression patterns. Both genes are expressed more intensely during the proliferative stages of spermatogonia, although SOX9 expression is limited to Sertoli cells, whereas DMRT1 is expressed in both Sertoli and spermatogonial cells. Available data suggest that intratesticular levels of testosterone could regulate circannual spermatogenic variations of seasonal breeders by modulating the expression of DMRT1 to control spermatogonial proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Dadhich
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad de Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Armilla, Spain
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17
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Le Page Y, Diotel N, Vaillant C, Pellegrini E, Anglade I, Mérot Y, Kah O. Aromatase, brain sexualization and plasticity: the fish paradigm. Eur J Neurosci 2010; 32:2105-15. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2010.07519.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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18
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Hou Y, Zhou X, Liu J, Yuan J, Cheng H, Zhou R. Nuclear factor-Y (NF-Y) regulates transcription of mouse Dmrt7 gene by binding to tandem CCAAT boxes in its proximal promoter. Int J Biol Sci 2010; 6:655-64. [PMID: 21060727 PMCID: PMC2974168 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.6.655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2010] [Accepted: 10/23/2010] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Dmrt7, a member of the Dmrt family of genes, is required for spermatogenesis. However, promoter functions of the gene Dmrt7 remain unknown. We have cloned and characterized the proximal promoter region of the mouse Dmrt7 gene. Functional analysis of the 5' flanking region by sequential deletion mutations revealed crucial positive elements between -60 and +1, in which two highly conserved and tandem CCAAT boxes: the CCAAT box1 (-48/-44) and the CCAAT box2 (-7/-3) are located. Site-directed mutagenesis studies demonstrated that both CCAAT boxes are indispensable to the promoter activity. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) and gel-supershift assays indicated that transcription factor NF-Y binds to the promoter. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis demonstrated that NF-Y interacts in vivo with the promoter of the Dmrt7 gene in testis. Co-transfection and reporter analysis showed that over-expression of NF-Ys increased transcription of the Dmrt7-luc gene whereas expression of a dominant-negative NF-Ya decreased the transcription. This suggests that NF-Y can activate the Dmrt7 promoter. These results provide evidence of a transcription regulatory mechanism that controls Dmrt7 gene expression in mouse testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Hou
- Department of Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, PR China
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19
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Shah C, VanGompel MJW, Naeem V, Chen Y, Lee T, Angeloni N, Wang Y, Xu EY. Widespread presence of human BOULE homologs among animals and conservation of their ancient reproductive function. PLoS Genet 2010; 6:e1001022. [PMID: 20657660 PMCID: PMC2904765 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1001022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2010] [Accepted: 06/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex-specific traits that lead to the production of dimorphic gametes, sperm in males and eggs in females, are fundamental for sexual reproduction and accordingly widespread among animals. Yet the sex-biased genes that underlie these sex-specific traits are under strong selective pressure, and as a result of adaptive evolution they often become divergent. Indeed out of hundreds of male or female fertility genes identified in diverse organisms, only a very small number of them are implicated specifically in reproduction in more than one lineage. Few genes have exhibited a sex-biased, reproductive-specific requirement beyond a given phylum, raising the question of whether any sex-specific gametogenesis factors could be conserved and whether gametogenesis might have evolved multiple times. Here we describe a metazoan origin of a conserved human reproductive protein, BOULE, and its prevalence from primitive basal metazoans to chordates. We found that BOULE homologs are present in the genomes of representative species of each of the major lineages of metazoans and exhibit reproductive-specific expression in all species examined, with a preponderance of male-biased expression. Examination of Boule evolution within insect and mammalian lineages revealed little evidence for accelerated evolution, unlike most reproductive genes. Instead, purifying selection was the major force behind Boule evolution. Furthermore, loss of function of mammalian Boule resulted in male-specific infertility and a global arrest of sperm development remarkably similar to the phenotype in an insect boule mutation. This work demonstrates the conservation of a reproductive protein throughout eumetazoa, its predominant testis-biased expression in diverse bilaterian species, and conservation of a male gametogenic requirement in mice. This shows an ancient gametogenesis requirement for Boule among Bilateria and supports a model of a common origin of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Eugene Yujun Xu
- Division of Reproductive Biology Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Center for Genetic Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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20
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Liu ZH, Zhang YG, Wang DS. Studies on feminization, sex determination, and differentiation of the Southern catfish, Silurus meridionalis--a review. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2010; 36:223-235. [PMID: 19002765 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-008-9281-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2008] [Accepted: 10/13/2008] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The sex ratio of the feral Southern catfish was reported to be about 1:1, while the fish obtained by artificial fertilization were always female. Hence, we examined the possible influence of the micro-environment during artificial insemination (pH of the ovarian fluid and concentration of the semen) and early development (feed, hatching temperature, and water) on the sex ratio of Southern catfish fry. In order to examine the possibility of the occurrence of gynogenesis during artificial propagation, cytological observations on the insemination processes and the artificial induction of gynogenesis were also performed. However, no male fish were obtained even in these experiments, excluding the possibilities of these micro-environmental changes on catfish sex ratio and the occurrence of gynogenesis during artificial propagation. Female-to-male sex reversal was achieved by treatment with fadrozole (an aromatase inhibitor) and tamoxifen (an estrogen receptor antagonist). Histological analyses on the gonadal development of both female and induced male fish were subsequently performed. Moreover, several genes involved in sex differentiation, such as dmrt1, foxl2, and cyp19, and three subunits of gonadotropin (gth), i.e., gthalpha, lhbeta, and fshbeta, were isolated. Their expression patterns were studied under normal gonadal development and sex reversal conditions. The results revealed that dmrt1, foxl2, and cyp19a were closely related to catfish sex differentiation, and the gth subunits were possibly related to ovarian differentiation and oocyte development. Taken together, we hypothesized that estrogen was highly responsible for the ovarian differentiation and feminization of catfish fry under artificial propagation, although the mechanism involved remains elusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z H Liu
- Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region (Ministry of Education), School of Life Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
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21
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Lee KH, Yamaguchi A, Rashid H, Kadomura K, Yasumoto S, Matsuyama M. Estradiol-17beta treatment induces intersexual gonadal development in the pufferfish, Takifugu rubripes. Zoolog Sci 2010; 26:639-45. [PMID: 19799515 DOI: 10.2108/zsj.26.639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens are responsible for most characteristics of the female sex of a species, such as metabolic, behavioral, and morphological changes during reproduction. Artificial estradiol-17beta (E2) treatment Induces sex reversal in some fish. The Japanese pufferfish (Takifugu rubripes) has the most compact genome among vertebrates and great pottial for comparative genome analysis. In this paper, we describe the Influence of E2 treatment during gonadal development in the pufferfish. After hatching, fry were treated with no (control) or a 0.1, 1, 10, or 100 microg/g diet from 21 to 80 days after hatching (dah). Doublesex-mab3-related transcription factor (DMRT1) is Involved in testicular development. VASA is responsible for germ cell development, and CYP19A plays a role in E2 biosynthesis during ovarian development across animal phyla as well as in gonadal morphology after E2 treatment. DMRT1, VASA, and CYP19A were Investigated in the gonads of E2-treated pufferfish. Fish fed with the highest dose (E2 100 microg/g diet) developed Intersexual gonads in the testis; the majority of germ cells were oocytes, but some spermatocytes were detected. RT-PCR results showed the expression of VASA and CYP19A in all intersexual gonads and DMRT1 in some. Furthermore, abnormalities in the epithelium-tunica layer were detected, and gonadal somatic cells (e.g., granulosa cells, theca cells, or germinal epithelium) proliferated extensively in the intersexual gonad. These results suggest that E2 treatment Induces ovarian development in the bipotential gonads of genetic males by modification of gonadal somatic cells and E2 production, mediated by CYP19A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Hoon Lee
- Laboratory of Marine Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8581, Japan
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22
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The avian Z-linked gene DMRT1 is required for male sex determination in the chicken. Nature 2009; 461:267-71. [DOI: 10.1038/nature08298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 599] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2009] [Accepted: 07/21/2009] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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23
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Wen A, You F, Tan X, Sun P, Ni J, Zhang Y, Xu D, Wu Z, Xu Y, Zhang P. Expression pattern of dmrt4 from olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) in adult gonads and during embryogenesis. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2009; 35:421-433. [PMID: 18841490 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-008-9267-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2008] [Accepted: 09/02/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The dmrt (doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor) gene family comprises several transcription factors that share a conserved DM domain. Dmrt1 is considered to be involved in sexual development, but the precise function of other family members is unclear. In this study, we isolated genomic DNA and cDNA sequences of dmrt4, a member of the dmrt gene family, from olive flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus, through genome walking and real-time reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR. Sequence analysis indicated that its genomic DNA contains two exons and one intron. A transcriptional factor binding sites prediction program identified a sexual development-related protein, Sox9 (Sry-like HMG box containing 9) in its 5' promoter. Protein alignment and phylogenetic analysis suggested that flounder Dmrt4 is closely related to tilapia Dmo (DM domain gene in ovary). The expression of dmrt4 in adult flounder was sexually dimorphic, as shown by real-time RT-PCR analysis, with strong expression in the testis but very weak expression in the ovary. Its expression was also strong in the brain and gill, but there was only weak or no expression at all in some of the other tissues tested of both sexes. During embryogenesis, its expression was detected in most developmental stages, although the level of expression was distinctive of the various stages. Whole mount in situ hybridization revealed that the dmrt4 was expressed in the otic placodes, forebrain, telencephalon and olfactory placodes of embryos at different developmental stages. These results will improve our understanding of the possible role of flounder dmrt4 in the development of the gonads, nervous system and sense organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiyun Wen
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, People's Republic of China
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Pala I, Schartl M, Thorsteinsdóttir S, Coelho MM. Sex determination in the Squalius alburnoides complex: an initial characterization of sex cascade elements in the context of a hybrid polyploid genome. PLoS One 2009; 4:e6401. [PMID: 19636439 PMCID: PMC2713423 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0006401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2009] [Accepted: 06/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sex determination processes vary widely among different vertebrate taxa, but no group offers as much diversity for the study of the evolution of sex determination as teleost fish. However, the knowledge about sex determination gene cascades is scarce in this species-rich group and further difficulties arise when considering hybrid fish taxa, in which mechanisms exhibited by parental species are often disrupted. Even though hybridisation is frequent among teleosts, gene based approaches on sex determination have seldom been conducted in hybrid fish. The hybrid polyploid complex of Squalius alburnoides was used as a model to address this question. Methodology/Principal Findings We have initiated the isolation and characterization of regulatory elements (dmrt1, wt1, dax1 and figla) potentially involved in sex determination in S. alburnoides and in the parental species S. pyrenaicus and analysed their expression patterns by in situ hybridisation. In adults, an overall conservation in the cellular localization of the gene transcripts was observed between the hybrids and parental species. Some novel features emerged, such as dmrt1 expression in adult ovaries, and the non-dimorphic expression of figla, an ovarian marker in other species, in gonads of both sexes in S. alburnoides and S. pyrenaicus. The potential contribution of each gene to the sex determination process was assessed based on the timing and location of expression. Dmrt1 and wt1 transcripts were found at early stages of male development in S. alburnoides and are most likely implicated in the process of gonad development. Conclusions/Significance For the first time in the study of this hybrid complex, it was possible to directly compare the gene expression patterns between the bisexual parental species and the various hybrid forms, for an extended set of genes. The contribution of these genes to gonad integrity maintenance and functionality is apparently unaltered in the hybrids, suggesting that no abrupt shifts in gene expression occurred as a result of hybridisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Pala
- Centro de Biologia Ambiental, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
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25
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Carré-Eusèbe D, Coudouel N, Magre S. OVEX1, a novel chicken endogenous retrovirus with sex-specific and left-right asymmetrical expression in gonads. Retrovirology 2009; 6:59. [PMID: 19534790 PMCID: PMC2717909 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4690-6-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2009] [Accepted: 06/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In chickens, as in most birds, female gonad morphogenesis is asymmetrical. Gonads appear first rather similarly, but only the left one undergoes full differentiation and gives rise to a functional ovary. The right gonad, in which the cortex does not develop, remains restricted to the medulla and finally regresses. Opportunity was taken of this left-right asymmetry to perform a suppression subtractive hybridization screening to select for transcripts preferentially expressed in the developing left ovary as compared to the right one, and thus identify genes that are potentially involved in the process of ovarian differentiation. RESULTS One of these transcripts, named Ovex1 according to its expression profile, corresponds to an endogenous retrovirus that has not been previously characterized. It is transcribed as full-length and singly spliced mRNAs and contains three uninterrupted open reading frames coding potentially for proteins with homology to Gag and Pro-Pol retroviral polyproteins and a third protein showing only a weak similarity with Env glycoproteins. Ovex1 is severely degenerated; it is devoid of typical long terminal repeats and displays some evidence of recombination. An orthologous Ovex1 locus was identified in the genome of zebra finch, a member of a different bird order, and similar sequences were detected in turkey, guinea fowl, and duck DNA. The relationship between these sequences follows the bird phylogeny, suggesting vertical transmission of the endogenous retrovirus for more than 100 million years. Ovex1 is transcribed in chicken gonads with a sex-dependent and left-right asymmetrical pattern. It is first expressed in the cortex of the left indifferent gonads of both sexes. Expression is transient in the left testis and absent in the right one. In developing ovaries, Ovex1 transcription increases sharply in the left cortex and is weakly detected in the medulla. After folliculogenesis, Ovex1-expressing cells constitute the follicular granulosa cell layer. Ovex1 expression highlights a striking desquamation process that leads to profound cortical remodeling associated with follicle morphogenesis. CONCLUSION Evidence for a selection pressure at the protein level suggests that this endogenous retrovirus, expressed in the ovarian supporting cell lineage, might play an active role in bird ovarian physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danièle Carré-Eusèbe
- Endocrinologie et Génétique de la Reproduction et du Développement, INSERM, U782, 32 rue des Carnets, F-92140, Clamart – France
- Univ. Paris-Sud, UMR-S0782, Clamart, F-92140
| | - Noëlline Coudouel
- Physiologie de l'Axe Gonadotrope, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), Univ. PARIS 7 – CNRS, 4 rue MA Lagroua Weill-Hallé, 75205 Paris CEDEX 13 – France
| | - Solange Magre
- Physiologie de l'Axe Gonadotrope, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), Univ. PARIS 7 – CNRS, 4 rue MA Lagroua Weill-Hallé, 75205 Paris CEDEX 13 – France
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Feng Y, Peng X, Li S, Gong Y. Isolation and characterization of sexual dimorphism genes expressed in chicken embryonic gonads. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2009; 41:285-94. [PMID: 19352543 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmp012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In chicken, the bipotential embryonic gonad differentiates into either a pair of testes or an ovary, but few genes that underlying the gonadal sex differentiation have been identified and the sex-determination gene is still unknown. To identify more genes involved in chicken sex differentiation, we employed suppression subtractive hybridization to isolate differentially expressed genes between sexes from chicken gonads during a period of E3.5-E6. A total of 152 cDNA clones corresponding to 88 genes (41 from F-M library and 47 from M-F library) were screened using dot-blot analysis. These genes are located mainly on the macrochromosomes (1-5) with five in the sex chromosomes (one in W and four in Z), encoding four dominating molecular categories belonging to enzyme, DNA association, RNA association, and structural protein. Comparing the obtained cDNA sequences with those in chicken EST database, it showed that cDNAs of 32 genes from F-M library and 16 from M-F library have homologs in two reported embryonic gonad cDNA libraries. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis of eight genes involved in epigenetic and transcription regulation showed significantly different expression between sexes of CDK2AP1, SMARCE1, SAP18, SUDS3, and PQBP1 appeared at the early stage in gonad development (E4). Based on the functional comparison of sexual differentially expressed genes, the roles of some putatively important genes including ATP5A1W, CDK2AP1, mitochondrial transcripts, etc. have been analyzed. In conclusion, characterization of isolated genes would provide valuable clues to identify potential candidates involved in genetic mechanisms of chicken sex differentiation and gonad development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Feng
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
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27
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Klinbunga S, Amparyup P, Khamnamtong B, Hirono I, Aoki T, Jarayabhand P. Isolation and characterization of testis-specific DMRT1 in the tropical abalone (Haliotis asinina). Biochem Genet 2008; 47:66-79. [PMID: 19067156 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-008-9207-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2008] [Accepted: 07/15/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The Doublesex Male abnormal-3 Related Transcription factor-1 (DMRT1) gene encodes a protein containing the DNA-binding motif called the DM domain, involved in the sexual development of various species. To gain insight into its implications for gonadal differentiation in the tropical abalone (Haliotis asinina), a DMRT1 homolog was identified and characterized. The full length cDNA of HADMRT1 (1,740 bp with an ORF of 732 bp corresponding to a putative polypeptide of 243 amino acids) and its DM domain-less variant (HADMRT1-like, 1,430 bp with an ORF of 312 bp, 103 amino acids) were successfully isolated and reported for the first time in molluscs. HADMRT1 was specifically expressed in the testes of adult H. asinina (N = 16) but not in whole juveniles (2, 3, 5 months old, N = 6 for each group) and ovaries (N = 16), and pooled hemocytes (from 50 individuals) of adults. Tissue distribution analysis further revealed testis-specific expression of HADMRT1. Semiquantitative RT-PCR illustrated that the relative expression level of HADMRT1 in developed testes (stages II, III, and IV) was significantly greater than that in undeveloped testes (stage I) of abalone broodstock (P < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirawut Klinbunga
- Aquatic Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Klong 1, Klong Luang, Pathumthani, 12120, Thailand.
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Anand A, Patel M, Lalremruata A, Singh AP, Agrawal R, Singh L, Aggarwal RK. Multiple alternative splicing of Dmrt1 during gonadogenesis in Indian mugger, a species exhibiting temperature-dependent sex determination. Gene 2008; 425:56-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2008.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2008] [Revised: 08/04/2008] [Accepted: 08/05/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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29
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Diversity in the origins of sex chromosomes in anurans inferred from comparative mapping of sexual differentiation genes for three species of the Raninae and Xenopodinae. Chromosome Res 2008; 16:999-1011. [PMID: 18850318 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-008-1257-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2008] [Revised: 07/18/2008] [Accepted: 07/18/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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30
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Comparative chromosome mapping of sex-linked genes and identification of sex chromosomal rearrangements in the Japanese wrinkled frog (Rana rugosa, Ranidae) with ZW and XY sex chromosome systems. Chromosome Res 2008; 16:637-47. [DOI: 10.1007/s10577-008-1217-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2008] [Revised: 02/25/2008] [Accepted: 02/25/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Zhou X, Li Q, Lu H, Chen H, Guo Y, Cheng H, Zhou R. Fish specific duplication of Dmrt2: characterization of zebrafish Dmrt2b. Biochimie 2008; 90:878-87. [PMID: 18358846 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2008.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2007] [Accepted: 02/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The protein families with a conserved zinc finger-like DNA binding DM domain are putative transcription factors related to the sexual regulator Dsx of Drosophila and Mab-3 of Caenorhabditis elegans. Although several members have been cloned, there are still other members need to be identified, and origin and evolution of the gene family also remain unclear. We report here cloning, expression and synteny analysis of a duplicated copy of zebrafish Dmrt2a gene, the Dmrt2b which is fish specific, whereas Dmrt2a exists in all vertebrates. During embryogenesis, the Dmrt2b expression increased gradually from shield stage to hatching stage, and mainly localized in branchial arches from 24 hpf to 40 hpf, indicating that it has a potential role in the development of branchial arches. The duplicated Dmrt2b and Dmrt2a with structural variation and expression diversification during development revealed that a process of functional diploidization of gene function occurred during zebrafish lineage. DNA binding experiment indicated that Dmrt2b recognized similar DNA sequences to those of both DSX and MAB-3, indicating a conserved regulatory function. Synteny analysis among chromosomes containing Dmrt2a and Dmrt2b showed that zebrafish Dmrt2b and at least nine genes on chromosome 6 have respective homologues on chromosome 5 containing Dmrt2a. Further synteny search from genome information showed that Dmrt2b and its neighborhood existed only in the genome of teleosts. Dmrt2a and Dmrt2b were duplicated from the duplication event, which might be part of the third genome duplication, occurred during the evolution of ray-finned fishes, probably before the emergence of osteichthyes around 350 Myr. The duplicated Dmrt2b and Dmrt2a with structural variation and expression diversification suggested their diverse roles: Dmrt2b in specification of branchial arches while Dmrt2a in somitogenesis. These analyses undoubtedly help understanding functional divergence and evolution of the DM genes following gene duplication in fishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhou
- Department of Genetics and Center for Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, PR China
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32
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Smith C. Sex Determination in Birds: HINTs from the W Sex Chromosome? Sex Dev 2008; 1:279-85. [DOI: 10.1159/000108934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2007] [Accepted: 08/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Miura I. An Evolutionary Witness: the Frog Rana rugosa Underwent Change of Heterogametic Sex from XY Male to ZW Female. Sex Dev 2008; 1:323-31. [DOI: 10.1159/000111764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2007] [Accepted: 09/19/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Profiles of mRNA Expression of FOXL2, P450arom, DMRT1, AMH, P450c17, SF1, ER.ALPHA. and AR, in Relation to Gonadal Sex Differentiation in Duck Embryo. J Poult Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.2141/jpsa.45.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Hong CS, Park BY, Saint-Jeannet JP. The function of Dmrt genes in vertebrate development: It is not just about sex. Dev Biol 2007; 310:1-9. [PMID: 17720152 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2007.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2007] [Revised: 07/25/2007] [Accepted: 07/25/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The Dmrt genes encode a large family of transcription factors whose function in sexual development has been well studied in invertebrates and vertebrates. Their expression pattern is not restricted to the developing gonads, indicating that Dmrt genes might regulate other developmental processes. Here we review the expression pattern of several members of this family across species and summarize recent findings on the function of a subset of these genes in non-gonadal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Soo Hong
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Smith CA, Roeszler KN, Hudson QJ, Sinclair AH. Avian sex determination: what, when and where? Cytogenet Genome Res 2007; 117:165-73. [PMID: 17675857 DOI: 10.1159/000103177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2006] [Accepted: 09/13/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex is determined genetically in all birds, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. All species have a ZZ/ZW sex chromosome system characterised by female (ZW) heterogamety, but the chromosomes themselves can be heteromorphic (in most birds) or homomorphic (in the flightless ratites). Sex in birds might be determined by the dosage of a Z-linked gene (two in males, one in females) or by a dominant ovary-determining gene carried on the W sex chromosome, or both. Sex chromosome aneuploidy has not been conclusively documented in birds to differentiate between these possibilities. By definition, the sex chromosomes of birds must carry one or more sex-determining genes. In this review of avian sex determination, we ask what, when and where? What is the nature of the avian sex determinant? When should it be expressed in the developing embryo, and where is it expressed? The last two questions arise due to evidence suggesting that sex-determining genes in birds might be operating prior to overt sexual differentiation of the gonads into testes or ovaries, and in tissues other than the urogenital system.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Smith
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute and University of Melbourne, Department of Paediatrics, Royal Childrens Hospital, Parkville, Australia.
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Feng Y, Zhang S, Peng X, Yuan J, Yang Y, Zhan H, Gong Y. Expression analysis of genes putatively involved in chicken gonadal development. ACTA BIOLOGICA HUNGARICA 2007; 58:163-72. [PMID: 17585506 DOI: 10.1556/abiol.58.2007.2.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, testis development is initiated by the expression of the sex-determining gene, SRY whereas the genetic trigger for sex determination in birds remains unknown. In the present study, the expression of seven genes implicated in vertebrate sex determination and differentiation were studied in chicken embryonic gonads from day 4 to day 12 of incubation using reverse transcription and the polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results showed transcription of cLhx9, cGATA4, cVnnl, cPptl, cBrd3 were sexually dimorphic during chicken gonadal development, whereas cEki2, cFog2 were expressed at similar levels in both sexes. Results of comparative studies between mammals and chickens show that vertebrate sex-determining pathways comprise both conserved and divergent elements: expression profiles of cGATA4/cFog2 and cVnnl are similar to those in mammals, while others appear some differences. Possible functions of these genes on chicken gonadal development were analyzed based on their expression profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Feng
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, PR China
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38
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Xia W, Zhou L, Yao B, Li CJ, Gui JF. Differential and spermatogenic cell-specific expression of DMRT1 during sex reversal in protogynous hermaphroditic groupers. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2007; 263:156-72. [PMID: 17092636 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2006.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2006] [Revised: 09/24/2006] [Accepted: 09/26/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
DMRT1 has been suggested to play different roles in sex determination and gonad differentiation, because different expression patterns have been reported among different vertebrates. The groupers, since their gonads first develop as ovary and then reverse into testis, have been thought as good models to study sex differentiation and determination. In this study, we cloned the full-length cDNAs of DMRT1 gene from orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides), and prepared corresponding anti-EcDMRT1 antiserum to study the relationship of DMRT1 to sex reversal. One important finding is that the grouper DMRT1 is not only differentially expressed in different stage gonads, but also restricted to specific stages and specific cells of spermatogenesis. Grouper DMRT1 protein exists only in spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes and secondary spermatocytes, but not in the supporting Sertoli cells. Moreover, we confirmed that EcSox3 is expressed not only in oogonia and different stage oocytes, but also in Sertoli cells and spermatogonia, and EcSox9 is expressed only in Sertoli cells. The data suggested that grouper DMRT1 might be a more specific sex differentiation gene for spermatogenesis, and play its role at the specific stages from spermatogonia to spermatocytes. In addition, no introns were found in the grouper DMRT1, and no duplicated DMRT1 genes were detected. The finding implicates that the intronless DMRT1 that is able to undergo rapid transcriptional turnover might be a significant gene for stimulating spermatogenesis in the protogynous hermaphroditic gonad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Wuhan Center for Developmental Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
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39
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Lu H, Huang X, Zhang L, Guo Y, Cheng H, Zhou R. Multiple alternative splicing of mouse Dmrt1 during gonadal differentiation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 352:630-4. [PMID: 17141192 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2006.11.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2006] [Accepted: 11/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Evolutionarily conserved Dmrt1 encodes a transcriptional regulator that is expressed exclusively in the gonads and is required for testis differentiation. Here we report that four transcripts of the mouse Dmrt1 were generated in developing gonads and adult testis by alternative splicing. Dmrt1 a encodes the known protein with 374 amino acids. Dmrt1 b, Dmrt1 c, and Dmrt1 d encode predicted proteins with 212, 257, and 194 amino acids, respectively. Dmrt1 a2 and Dmrt1 a3 have anterior alternative polyadenylation signals in 3'UTR than the known Dmrt1 transcript (Dmrt1 a1). Dmrt1 a2 lacks 18 nucleic acids in 3'UTR. Interestingly, Dmrt1 b lacks exon5, Dmrt1 c lacks exon3, and Dmrt1 d lacks both exon1 and exon2 which encode DM domain. RT-PCR showed that all of Dmrt1 transcripts were only detectable in adult testis. However, during gonadogenesis, the multiple alternatively spliced transcripts all had gonad-specific and sexually dimorphic expression profiles. Northern blot and real time fluorescent quantitative RT-PCR further indicated that the expression of Dmrt1 a was dominantly higher than those of Dmrt1 b, c, and d, although they showed a similar up and down pattern of expression during embryo development. The expression of Dmrt1 transcripts climbed up to a climax at 13.5dpc in both male and female gonad. Afterwards, expression in male gonad decreased to a low level and maintained, whereas female one reduced rapidly until undetectable in adult ovary. These results provide new insight into roles of regulation at level of splicing of the Dmrt1 in governing sex differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Lu
- Department of Genetics and Center for Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, PR China
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40
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Blecher SR, Erickson RP. Genetics of sexual development: A new paradigm. Am J Med Genet A 2007; 143A:3054-68. [DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.32037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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41
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Zhao Y, Lu H, Yu H, Cheng H, Zhou R. Multiple alternative splicing in gonads of chicken DMRT1. Dev Genes Evol 2006; 217:119-26. [PMID: 17120025 DOI: 10.1007/s00427-006-0117-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2006] [Accepted: 10/17/2006] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Many basic cellular processes are shared across vast phylogenetic distances, whereas sex-determining mechanisms are highly variable between phyla, although the existence of two sexes is nearly universal in the animal kingdom. However, the evolutionarily conserved DMRT1/dsx/mab3 with a common zinc finger-like DNA-binding motif, DM domain, share both similar structure and function between phyla. Here we report that six transcripts of the chicken DMRT1 were generated in gonads by multiple alternative splicing. By cDNA cloning and genomic structure analysis, we found that there were nine exons of DMRT1, which were involved in alternatively splicing to generate the DMRT1 transcripts. Northern blotting and reverse transcription (RT) PCR analysis revealed that the expression of chicken DMRT1 was testis-specific in adults. Whole-mount in situ hybridizations and RT-PCR indicated that DMRT1 b was specially expressed in embryo gonads and higher in male than female gonads at stage 31. The female gonad had stronger DMRT1 c expression than the male one, whereas DMRT1 f was detectable only in the male gonad at stage 31 of the key time of sex gonadal differentiation. The differential expression of these transcripts during gonadal differentiation provides new insight into roles of alternative splicing of DMRT1 in governing sex differentiation of the chicken.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhao
- Department of Genetics and Center for Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, People's Republic of China
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42
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Veith AM, Schäfer M, Klüver N, Schmidt C, Schultheis C, Schartl M, Winkler C, Volff JN. Tissue-Specific Expression ofdmrtGenes in Embryos and Adults of the PlatyfishXiphophorus maculatus. Zebrafish 2006; 3:325-37. [DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2006.3.325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Marie Veith
- Physiologische Chemie I, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Schäfer
- Physiologische Chemie I, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nils Klüver
- Physiologische Chemie I, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Cornelia Schmidt
- Physiologische Chemie I, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Manfred Schartl
- Physiologische Chemie I, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Winkler
- Physiologische Chemie I, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jean-Nicolas Volff
- Physiologische Chemie I, Biozentrum, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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43
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Shirak A, Seroussi E, Cnaani A, Howe AE, Domokhovsky R, Zilberman N, Kocher TD, Hulata G, Ron M. Amh and Dmrta2 genes map to tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) linkage group 23 within quantitative trait locus regions for sex determination. Genetics 2006; 174:1573-81. [PMID: 16951079 PMCID: PMC1667067 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.106.059030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that the major genes of the mammalian sex determination pathway are also involved in sex determination of fish. Several studies have reported QTL in various species and strains of tilapia, regions contributing to sex determination have been identified on linkage groups 1, 3, and 23. Genes contributing to sex-specific mortality have been detected on linkage groups 2, 6, and 23. To test whether the same genes might control sex determination in mammals and fishes, we mapped 11 genes that are considered putative master key regulators of sex determination: Amh, Cyp19, Dax1, Dmrt2, Dmrta2, Fhl3l, Foxl2, Ixl, Lhx9, Sf1, and Sox8. We identified polymorphisms in noncoding regions of these genes and genotyped these sites for 90 individuals of an F2 mapping family. Mapping of Dax1 joined LG16 and LG21 into a single linkage group. The Amh and Dmrta2 genes were mapped to two distinct regions of LG23. The Amh gene was mapped 5 cM from UNH879 within a QTL region for sex determination and 2 cM from UNH216 within a QTL region for sex-specific mortality. Dmrta2 was mapped 4 cM from UNH848 within another QTL region for sex determination. Cyp19 was mapped to LG1 far from a previously reported QTL region for sex determination on this chromosome. Seven other candidate genes mapped to LG4, -11, -12, -14, and -17.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey Shirak
- Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
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44
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Cheng HH, Ying M, Tian YH, Guo Y, McElreavey K, Zhou RJ. Transcriptional diversity of DMRT1 (dsx- and mab3-related transcription factor 1) in human testis. Cell Res 2006; 16:389-93. [PMID: 16617334 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cr.7310050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in the evolutionary genetics of sex determination indicate that the only molecular similarity in sex determination found so far among phyla is between the fly doublesex, worm mab-3 and vertebrate DMRT1(dsx- and mab3-related transcription factor 1) /DMY genes. Each of these factors encodes a zinc-finger-like DNA-binding motif, DM domain. Insights into the evolution and functions of human DMRT1 gene could reveal evolutionary mechanisms of sexual development. Here we report the identification and characterization of multiple isoforms of human DMRT1 in the testis. These transcripts encode predicted proteins with 373, 275 and 175 amino acids and they were generated by alternative splicing at 3' region. Expression level of DMRT1a is higher than those of both DMRT1b and c, and the DMRT1c expression was the lowest in testis, based on comparisons of mean values from real-time fluorescent quantitative RT-PCR analysis. Both DMRT1b and c result from exonization of intronic sequences, including the exonization of an Alu element. A further search for Alu elements within the DMRT1 gene demonstrated that all 99 Alu elements are non-randomly distributed among the non-coding regions on both directions. These new characteristics of DMRT1 would have an important impact on the evolution of sexual development mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Hua Cheng
- Department of Genetics and Center for Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
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45
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Scholz B, Kultima K, Mattsson A, Axelsson J, Brunström B, Halldin K, Stigson M, Dencker L. Sex-dependent gene expression in early brain development of chicken embryos. BMC Neurosci 2006; 7:12. [PMID: 16480516 PMCID: PMC1386693 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-7-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2005] [Accepted: 02/15/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differentiation of the brain during development leads to sexually dimorphic adult reproductive behavior and other neural sex dimorphisms. Genetic mechanisms independent of steroid hormones produced by the gonads have recently been suggested to partly explain these dimorphisms. RESULTS Using cDNA microarrays and real-time PCR we found gene expression differences between the male and female embryonic brain (or whole head) that may be independent of morphological differentiation of the gonads. Genes located on the sex chromosomes (ZZ in males and ZW in females) were common among the differentially expressed genes, several of which (WPKCI-8, HINT, MHM non-coding RNA) have previously been implicated in avian sex determination. A majority of the identified genes were more highly expressed in males. Three of these genes (CDK7, CCNH and BTF2-P44) encode subunits of the transcription factor IIH complex, indicating a role for this complex in neuronal differentiation. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this study provides novel insights into sexually dimorphic gene expression in the embryonic chicken brain and its possible involvement in sex differentiation of the nervous system in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birger Scholz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Toxicology, The Biomedical Center, Husargatan 3, Box 594, SE-75124 Uppsala, and Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Kim Kultima
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Toxicology, The Biomedical Center, Husargatan 3, Box 594, SE-75124 Uppsala, and Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Anna Mattsson
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-75236 Uppsala, and Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Jeanette Axelsson
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-75236 Uppsala, and Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Björn Brunström
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-75236 Uppsala, and Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Krister Halldin
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, P.O. Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michael Stigson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Toxicology, The Biomedical Center, Husargatan 3, Box 594, SE-75124 Uppsala, and Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Lennart Dencker
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Toxicology, The Biomedical Center, Husargatan 3, Box 594, SE-75124 Uppsala, and Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala, Uppsala University, Sweden
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46
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Abstract
Although the sex of most animals is determined by genetic information, sex-determining genes had been identified only in mammals, several flies, and the worm Caenorhabditis elegans until the recent discovery of DMY (DM-domain gene on the Y chromosome) in the sex-determining region on the Y chromosome of the teleost fish medaka, Oryzias latipes. Functional and expression analyses of DMY have shown it to be the master gene for male sex determination in the medaka. The only sex-determining genes found so far in vertebrates are Sry and DMY. Therefore, the medaka is expected to become a good experimental animal for investigating the precise mechanisms involved in primary sex determination in nonmammalian vertebrates. This article reviews the origin of DMY and the sexual development of gonads in the medaka. The putative functions of DMY are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Matsuda
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Corporation, Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki 444-8585, Japan.
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47
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Huang X, Guo Y, Shui Y, Gao S, Yu H, Cheng H, Zhou R. Multiple Alternative Splicing and Differential Expression of dmrt1 During Gonad Transformation of the Rice Field Eel1. Biol Reprod 2005; 73:1017-24. [PMID: 16014815 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.105.041871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphologically distinct males and females are observed throughout the animal kingdom. Why and how sex evolved and is maintained in most living organisms remains a key question in cellular and evolutionary biology. Here we report that four isoforms of dmrt1 (dsx- and mab3-related transcription factor 1) are generated in testis, ovotestis, and ovary by alternative splicing in the rice field eel, a fresh water fish that undergoes natural sex reversal from female to male during its life cycle. These transcripts encode four different size proteins with 301, 196, 300, and 205 amino acids. Like fly doublesex splicing, the dmrt1 of the rice field eel is also alternatively spliced at the 3' region, which generates diverse isoforms in gonads by alternative use of 3' sequences. Not only is dmrt1 expressed specifically in gonads, but its multiple isoforms are differentially coexpressed in gonadal epithelium during gonad transformation. Expression levels of a and b isoforms of dmrt1 ranged from low to high (ovary < ovotestis I < ovotestis II < ovotestis III < testis), based on comparisons of mean values from real-time fluorescent quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis. The overall expression level of dmrt1 b was much lower than that of dmrt1 a. Expression of dmrt1 d was not only low, but it also did not change significantly during sex transformation. The differential expression of dmrt1 isoforms may also be regulated by their 3' untranslated regions (UTRs), although these 3' UTRs do not contribute to intracellular localization of the Dmrt1 protein. These results provide new insight into roles of regulation at the level of splicing of dmrt1 in governing the sex differentiation cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Huang
- Department of Genetics and Center for Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China
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48
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Yao HHC, Capel B. Temperature, genes, and sex: a comparative view of sex determination in Trachemys scripta and Mus musculus. J Biochem 2005; 138:5-12. [PMID: 16046442 PMCID: PMC4066379 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvi097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex determination, the step at which differentiation of males and females is initiated in the embryo, is of central importance to the propagation of species. There is a remarkable diversity of mechanisms by which sex determination is accomplished. In general these mechanisms fall into two categories: Genetic Sex Determination (GSD), which depends on genetic differences between the sexes, and Environmental Sex Determination (ESD), which depends on extrinsic cues. In this review we will consider these two means of determining sex with particular emphasis on two species: a species that depends on GSD, Mus musculus, and a species that depends on ESD, Trachemys scripta. Because the structural organization of the adult testis and ovary is very similar across vertebrates, most biologists had expected that the pathways downstream of the sex-determining switch would be conserved. However, emerging data indicate that not only are the initial sex determining mechanisms different, but the downstream pathways and morphogenetic events leading to the development of a testis or ovary also are different.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humphrey H-C Yao
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| | - Blanche Capel
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center
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49
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Abstract
Sequences of candidate chicken testis-specific genes were analysed in order to develop a resource for functional genomic studies of the testis and male germ cells. Tentative consensus sequences (TC) containing expressed sequence tags expressed in testis libraries were selected from the TIGR Gallus gallus Gene Index, resulting in 292 TC. The transcriptional expression of these genes were evaluated in several chicken tissues, including testis and ovary. One hundred ten of the 292 TC were expressed in a testis-specific manner. Annotation of the TC using the Gene Ontology database terms showed that the proportion of testis-specific TC that were classified as having catalytic activity (within the molecular function branch) was higher than the proportion of total chicken TC classified in the same way. Our results may facilitate the investigation of testis-specific genes and their functional analysis in the chicken, as well as in other avian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- D K Kim
- Division of Animal Genetic Engineering, School of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Korea
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Schmid M, Nanda I, Hoehn H, Schartl M, Haaf T, Buerstedde JM, Arakawa H, Caldwell RB, Weigend S, Burt DW, Smith J, Griffin DK, Masabanda JS, Groenen MAM, Crooijmans RPMA, Vignal A, Fillon V, Morisson M, Pitel F, Vignoles M, Garrigues A, Gellin J, Rodionov AV, Galkina SA, Lukina NA, Ben-Ari G, Blum S, Hillel J, Twito T, Lavi U, David L, Feldman MW, Delany ME, Conley CA, Fowler VM, Hedges SB, Godbout R, Katyal S, Smith C, Hudson Q, Sinclair A, Mizuno S. Second report on chicken genes and chromosomes 2005. Cytogenet Genome Res 2005; 109:415-79. [PMID: 15905640 DOI: 10.1159/000084205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Schmid
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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