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McLaughlin JF, Brock KM, Gates I, Pethkar A, Piattoni M, Rossi A, Lipshutz SE. Multivariate Models of Animal Sex: Breaking Binaries Leads to a Better Understanding of Ecology and Evolution. Integr Comp Biol 2023; 63:891-906. [PMID: 37156506 PMCID: PMC10563656 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icad027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
"Sex" is often used to describe a suite of phenotypic and genotypic traits of an organism related to reproduction. However, these traits-gamete type, chromosomal inheritance, physiology, morphology, behavior, etc.-are not necessarily coupled, and the rhetorical collapse of variation into a single term elides much of the complexity inherent in sexual phenotypes. We argue that consideration of "sex" as a constructed category operating at multiple biological levels opens up new avenues for inquiry in our study of biological variation. We apply this framework to three case studies that illustrate the diversity of sex variation, from decoupling sexual phenotypes to the evolutionary and ecological consequences of intrasexual polymorphisms. We argue that instead of assuming binary sex in these systems, some may be better categorized as multivariate and nonbinary. Finally, we conduct a meta-analysis of terms used to describe diversity in sexual phenotypes in the scientific literature to highlight how a multivariate model of sex can clarify, rather than cloud, studies of sexual diversity within and across species. We argue that such an expanded framework of "sex" better equips us to understand evolutionary processes, and that as biologists, it is incumbent upon us to push back against misunderstandings of the biology of sexual phenotypes that enact harm on marginalized communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- J F McLaughlin
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, College of Natural Resources, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Kinsey M Brock
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, College of Natural Resources, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
- Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
| | - Isabella Gates
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Anisha Pethkar
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Marcus Piattoni
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Alexis Rossi
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL 60660, USA
| | - Sara E Lipshutz
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL 60660, USA
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
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McLaughlin JF, Aguilar C, Bernstein JM, Navia-Gine WG, Cueto-Aparicio LE, Alarcon AC, Alarcon BD, Collier R, Takyar A, Vong SJ, López-Chong OG, Driver R, Loaiza JR, De León LF, Saltonstall K, Lipshutz SE, Arcila D, Brock KM, Miller MJ. Comparative phylogeography reveals widespread cryptic diversity driven by ecology in Panamanian birds. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 36993716 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.26.525769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Widespread species often harbor unrecognized genetic diversity, and investigating the factors associated with such cryptic variation can help us better understand the forces driving diversification. Here, we identify potential cryptic species based on a comprehensive dataset of COI mitochondrial DNA barcodes from 2,333 individual Panamanian birds across 429 species, representing 391 (59%) of the 659 resident landbird species of the country, as well as opportunistically sampled waterbirds. We complement this dataset with additional publicly available mitochondrial loci, such as ND2 and cytochrome b, obtained from whole mitochondrial genomes from 20 taxa. Using barcode identification numbers (BINs), we find putative cryptic species in 19% of landbird species, highlighting hidden diversity in the relatively well-described avifauna of Panama. Whereas some of these mitochondrial divergence events corresponded with recognized geographic features that likely isolated populations, such as the Cordillera Central highlands, the majority (74%) of lowland splits were between eastern and western populations. The timing of these splits are not temporally coincident across taxa, suggesting that historical events, such as the formation of the Isthmus of Panama and Pleistocene climatic cycles, were not the primary drivers of cryptic diversification. Rather, we observed that forest species, understory species, insectivores, and strongly territorial species-all traits associated with lower dispersal ability-were all more likely to have multiple BINs in Panama, suggesting strong ecological associations with cryptic divergence. Additionally, hand-wing index, a proxy for dispersal capability, was significantly lower in species with multiple BINs, indicating that dispersal ability plays an important role in generating diversity in Neotropical birds. Together, these results underscore the need for evolutionary studies of tropical bird communities to consider ecological factors along with geographic explanations, and that even in areas with well-known avifauna, avian diversity may be substantially underestimated. LAY SUMMARY - What factors are common among bird species with cryptic diversity in Panama? What role do geography, ecology, phylogeographic history, and other factors play in generating bird diversity?- 19% of widely-sampled bird species form two or more distinct DNA barcode clades, suggesting widespread unrecognized diversity.- Traits associated with reduced dispersal ability, such as use of forest understory, high territoriality, low hand-wing index, and insectivory, were more common in taxa with cryptic diversity. Filogeografía comparada revela amplia diversidad críptica causada por la ecología en las aves de Panamá. RESUMEN Especies extendidas frecuentemente tiene diversidad genética no reconocida, y investigando los factores asociados con esta variación críptica puede ayudarnos a entender las fuerzas que impulsan la diversificación. Aquí, identificamos especies crípticas potenciales basadas en un conjunto de datos de códigos de barras de ADN mitocondrial de 2,333 individuos de aves de Panama en 429 especies, representando 391 (59%) de las 659 especies de aves terrestres residentes del país, además de algunas aves acuáticas muestreada de manera oportunista. Adicionalmente, complementamos estos datos con secuencias mitocondriales disponibles públicamente de otros loci, tal como ND2 o citocroma b, obtenidos de los genomas mitocondriales completos de 20 taxones. Utilizando los números de identificación de código de barras (en ingles: BINs), un sistema taxonómico numérico que proporcina una estimación imparcial de la diversidad potencial a nivel de especie, encontramos especies crípticas putativas en 19% de las especies de aves terrestres, lo que destaca la diversidad oculta en la avifauna bien descrita de Panamá. Aunque algunos de estos eventos de divergencia conciden con características geográficas que probablemente aislaron las poblaciones, la mayoría (74%) de la divergencia en las tierras bajas se encuentra entre las poblaciones orientales y occidentales. El tiempo de esta divergencia no coincidió entre los taxones, sugiriendo que eventos históricos tales como la formación del Istmo de Panamá y los ciclos climáticos del pleistoceno, no fueron los principales impulsores de la especiación. En cambio, observamos asociaciones fuertes entre las características ecológicas y la divergencia mitocondriale: las especies del bosque, sotobosque, con una dieta insectívora, y con territorialidad fuerte mostraton múltiple BINs probables. Adicionalmente, el índice mano-ala, que está asociado a la capacidad de dispersión, fue significativamente menor en las especies con BINs multiples, sugiriendo que la capacidad de dispersión tiene un rol importamente en la generación de la diversidad de las aves neotropicales. Estos resultos demonstran la necesidad de que estudios evolutivos de las comunidades de aves tropicales consideren los factores ecológicos en conjunto con las explicaciones geográficos. Palabras clave: biodiversidad tropical, biogeografía, códigos de barras, dispersión, especies crípticas.
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Vogt PH, Besikoglu B, Bettendorf M, Frank-Herrmann P, Zimmer J, Bender U, Knauer-Fischer S, Choukair D, Sinn P, Doerr HG, Woelfle J, Heidemann PH, Lau YFC, Strowitzki T. Sex chromosome DSD individuals with mosaic 45,X0 and aberrant Y chromosomes in 46,XY cells: distinct gender phenotypes and germ cell tumour risks §. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2022; 68:247-257. [PMID: 35481403 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2022.2057258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
"Differences of Sexual Development (DSD)," individuals with rearranged Y chromosome breaks in their 46,XY cells are reported with male and female gender phenotypes and differences in germ cell tumour (GCT) risk. This raised the question of whether male or female gender and GCT risk depends on the site of the break and/or rearrangement of the individual´s Y chromosome. In this paper, we report molecular mapping of the breakpoint on the aberrant Y chromosome of 22 DSD individuals with a 45,X/46,XY karyotype reared with a different gender. Their Y chromosome breaks are found at different sites on the long and short Y arms. Our data indicate that gender rearing is, neither dependent on the site of Y breakage, nor on the amount of 45,X0 cells in the individuals' leukocytes. Most prominent are secondary rearrangements of the Y chromosome breaks forming di-centric Y-structures ("dic-Y"). Duplications of the short Y arm and the proximal part of the long Y arm are the results. A putative GCT risk has been analysed with immunohistochemical experiments on some dysgenetic gonadal tissue sections. With specific antibodies for OCT3/4 expression, we marked the pluripotent germ cell fraction being potential tumour precursor cells. With specific antibodies for DDX3Y, TSPY, and UTY we analyzed their putative Gonadoblastoma Y (GBY) tumour susceptibility function in the same specimen. We conclude GBY expression is only diagnostic for GCT development in the aberrant germ cells of these DSD individuals when strong OCT3/4 expression has marked their pluripotency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter H Vogt
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Banu Besikoglu
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Novum, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Essen, Germany
| | - Markus Bettendorf
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Petra Frank-Herrmann
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jutta Zimmer
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Urike Bender
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sabine Knauer-Fischer
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniela Choukair
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Sinn
- Division of Gynaecopathology, Department of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Joachim Woelfle
- Children Hospital; University of Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter H Heidemann
- Children Hospital Augsburg I, Academic Hospital of University of Munich, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Yun-Fai Chris Lau
- Department of Medicine, VA Medical Center 111C5, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Thomas Strowitzki
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Dominelli PB, Molgat-Seon Y. Sex, gender and the pulmonary physiology of exercise. Eur Respir Rev 2022; 31:31/163/210074. [PMID: 35022254 PMCID: PMC9488949 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0074-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, we detail how the pulmonary system's response to exercise is impacted by both sex and gender in healthy humans across the lifespan. First, the rationale for why sex and gender differences should be considered is explored, and then anatomical differences are highlighted, namely that females typically have smaller lungs and airways than males. Thereafter, we describe how these anatomical differences can impact functional aspects such as respiratory muscle energetics and activation, mechanical ventilatory constraints, diaphragm fatigue, and pulmonary gas exchange in healthy adults and children. Finally, we detail how gender can impact the pulmonary response to exercise. Biological sex can influence the pulmonary response to exercise in healthy individuals across the lifespanhttps://bit.ly/3ejMDrv
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yannick Molgat-Seon
- Dept of Kinesiology and Applied Health, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Centre for Heart and Lung Innovation, Providence Health Care Research Institute, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Ray King K, Fuselier L, Sirvisetty H. LGBTQIA+ invisibility in nursing anatomy/physiology textbooks. J Prof Nurs 2021; 37:816-827. [PMID: 34742510 DOI: 10.1016/j.profnurs.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Members of the LGBTQIA+ experience health disparities that are compounded by providers that lack cultural competence, i.e., the skills, attitudes, and knowledge to offer culturally sensitive care. Educational efforts focus on increasing LGBTQIA+ representation across undergraduate nursing curricula and the recruitment and retention of members of this community into nursing programs. However, the ways that classroom materials represent LGBTQIA+ people can perpetuate social norms rather than accurate scientific understandings, thus limiting students' development of cultural competence while also driving LGBTQIA+ students from nursing. This study performs a content analysis for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in four widely adopted undergraduate nursing anatomy/physiology textbooks. We identify specific social beliefs that exclude LGBTQIA+ people and compare the different ways these manifested in each of the four textbooks. We argue that the way these books represent LGBTQIA+ people violate the fundamental ethical principles of nursing. Based on our findings, we challenge educators to consider the impact that language, images, and other classroom materials have on LGBTQIA+ students and all students' ability to develop cultural competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Ray King
- Department of Biology, University of Louisville, Life Sciences Building #139, Louisville, KY 40208, USA.
| | - Linda Fuselier
- Department of Biology, University of Louisville, Life Sciences Building #139, Louisville, KY 40208, USA.
| | - Harshini Sirvisetty
- Department of Biology, University of Louisville, Life Sciences Building #139, Louisville, KY 40208, USA.
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Fromme L, Yogui DR, Alves MH, Desbiez AL, Langeheine M, Quagliatto A, Siebert U, Brehm R. Morphology of the genital organs of male and female giant anteaters ( Myrmecophaga tridactyla). PeerJ 2021; 9:e11945. [PMID: 34447632 PMCID: PMC8364315 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The giant anteater belongs to the supraorder Xenarthra which occupies a systematically isolated position among placental mammals. The species is categorized as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and understanding its reproductive characteristics is critical for future conservation efforts. METHODS Gross and microscopic anatomy of the genital organs of 23 male and 21 female adult and young roadkill giant anteaters in Brazil were studied. RESULTS Male giant anteaters presented a short conical penis, intraabdominal testes, and prostate, vesicular and bulbourethral glands. A tubular remnant of the partially fused Müllerian ducts extended from the seminal colliculus through the prostate gland, continued cranially in the genital fold, bifurcated, and attached with one elongation each to the left and right epididymal corpus. The structure presented a total length of up to 10 cm and contained a yellowish liquid in its lumen. Histologically, the caudal section of this structure resembled the female vagina, the middle portion corresponded to the uterus, and the extensions showed characteristics of uterine tubes. In adult female giant anteaters, ovoid ovaries with occasional seminiferous cord-like structures were observed. The animals possessed a simple uterus, which was directly continuous with the vaginal canal. The caudal portion of the vagina had two lumina, separated by a longitudinal septum and opening into two apertures into the vaginal vestibule, cranial to the urethral opening. In the urethral and the lateral vestibular wall, glandular structures with characteristics of male prostate and bulbourethral glands, respectively, were found. The vestibule opened through a vertical vulvar cleft to the exterior. A pair of well-differentiated Wolffian ducts with a central lumen originated ventrally at the vaginal opening into the vestibule and passed in a cranial direction through the ventral vaginal and uterine wall. Each duct extended highly coiled along the ipsilateral uterine tube until the lateral pole of the ovaries where it merged with the rete ovarii. DISCUSSION The reproductive morphology of giant anteaters reveals characteristics shared with other Xenarthrans: intraabdominal testes, a simple uterus, and a double caudal vagina. The persistence of well-differentiated genital ducts of the opposite sex in both males and females, however, singles them out among other species. These structures are the results of an aberration during fetal sexual differentiation and possess secretory functions. The possibility of a pathological degeneration of these organs should be considered in reproductive medicine of the species. CONCLUSION Knowledge of the unique reproductive characteristics of the giant anteater is essential for future reproductive management of the species. Additionally, further research on the peculiarities of the persisting genital duct structures might help to understand sexual differentiation in placental mammals in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilja Fromme
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Débora R. Yogui
- Project Anteaters and Highways, Instituto de Conservação de Animais Silvestres (ICAS), Campo Grande, Brazil
- Nashville Zoo, Nashville, TN, United States of America
| | - Mario Henrique Alves
- Project Anteaters and Highways, Instituto de Conservação de Animais Silvestres (ICAS), Campo Grande, Brazil
- Fundación Zoológica de Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia
| | - Arnaud L.J. Desbiez
- Project Anteaters and Highways, Instituto de Conservação de Animais Silvestres (ICAS), Campo Grande, Brazil
- Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Instituto de Pesquisas Ecológicas (IPÊ), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marion Langeheine
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - André Quagliatto
- Laboratório de Ensino e Pesquisa em Animais Silvestres (LAPAS), Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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Roco ÁS, Ruiz-García A, Bullejos M. Testis Development and Differentiation in Amphibians. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:578. [PMID: 33923451 PMCID: PMC8072878 DOI: 10.3390/genes12040578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex is determined genetically in amphibians; however, little is known about the sex chromosomes, testis-determining genes, and the genes involved in testis differentiation in this class. Certain inherent characteristics of the species of this group, like the homomorphic sex chromosomes, the high diversity of the sex-determining mechanisms, or the existence of polyploids, may hinder the design of experiments when studying how the gonads can differentiate. Even so, other features, like their external development or the possibility of inducing sex reversal by external treatments, can be helpful. This review summarizes the current knowledge on amphibian sex determination, gonadal development, and testis differentiation. The analysis of this information, compared with the information available for other vertebrate groups, allows us to identify the evolutionarily conserved and divergent pathways involved in testis differentiation. Overall, the data confirm the previous observations in other vertebrates-the morphology of the adult testis is similar across different groups; however, the male-determining signal and the genetic networks involved in testis differentiation are not evolutionarily conserved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mónica Bullejos
- Departamento de Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Campus Las Lagunillas S/N, Universidad de Jaén, 23071 Jaén, Spain; (Á.S.R.); (A.R.-G.)
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8
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Nagahama Y, Chakraborty T, Paul-Prasanth B, Ohta K, Nakamura M. Sex determination, gonadal sex differentiation, and plasticity in vertebrate species. Physiol Rev 2020; 101:1237-1308. [PMID: 33180655 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00044.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A diverse array of sex determination (SD) mechanisms, encompassing environmental to genetic, have been found to exist among vertebrates, covering a spectrum from fixed SD mechanisms (mammals) to functional sex change in fishes (sequential hermaphroditic fishes). A major landmark in vertebrate SD was the discovery of the SRY gene in 1990. Since that time, many attempts to clone an SRY ortholog from nonmammalian vertebrates remained unsuccessful, until 2002, when DMY/dmrt1by was discovered as the SD gene of a small fish, medaka. Surprisingly, however, DMY/dmrt1by was found in only 2 species among more than 20 species of medaka, suggesting a large diversity of SD genes among vertebrates. Considerable progress has been made over the last 3 decades, such that it is now possible to formulate reasonable paradigms of how SD and gonadal sex differentiation may work in some model vertebrate species. This review outlines our current understanding of vertebrate SD and gonadal sex differentiation, with a focus on the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved. An impressive number of genes and factors have been discovered that play important roles in testicular and ovarian differentiation. An antagonism between the male and female pathway genes exists in gonads during both sex differentiation and, surprisingly, even as adults, suggesting that, in addition to sex-changing fishes, gonochoristic vertebrates including mice maintain some degree of gonadal sexual plasticity into adulthood. Importantly, a review of various SD mechanisms among vertebrates suggests that this is the ideal biological event that can make us understand the evolutionary conundrums underlying speciation and species diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Nagahama
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Ainan, Japan.,Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Kanazawa University, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Tapas Chakraborty
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Ainan, Japan.,Laboratory of Marine Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukouka, Japan.,Karatsu Satellite of Aqua-Bioresource Innovation Center, Kyushu University, Karatsu, Japan
| | - Bindhu Paul-Prasanth
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,Centre for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine, Amrita Vishwa Vidapeetham, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Kohei Ohta
- Laboratory of Marine Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukouka, Japan
| | - Masaru Nakamura
- Sesoko Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan.,Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, Okinawa, Japan
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9
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Xie Y, Xu Z, Wu Z, Hong L. Sex Manipulation Technologies Progress in Livestock: A Review. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:481. [PMID: 32923466 PMCID: PMC7456994 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex manipulation technologies allow predetermination of the sex of animal offspring by altering the normal reproductive process. In livestock production, the difference in type and gender can translate into significant economic benefits, including alleviation of severe food shortages. In livestock, however, the commercial application of sex manipulation technologies is currently available for cattle only. In this review, we described the brief history of sex manipulation, and the research progresses of common methods used in sex manipulation thus far. Information presented in this review can inform future studies on expanding the scope and use of sex manipulation technologies in livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshe Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Lingnan Guangdong Laboratory of Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiqian Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Lingnan Guangdong Laboratory of Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Lingnan Guangdong Laboratory of Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linjun Hong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Lingnan Guangdong Laboratory of Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
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Vogt PH, Besikoglu B, Bettendorf M, Frank-Herrmann P, Zimmer J, Bender U, Knauer-Fischer S, Choukair D, Sinn P, Lau YFC, Heidemann PH, Strowitzki T. Gonadoblastoma Y locus genes expressed in germ cells of individuals with dysgenetic gonads and a Y chromosome in their karyotypes include DDX3Y and TSPY. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:770-779. [PMID: 30753444 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which Y genes mapped to the 'Gonadoblastoma Y (GBY)' locus on human Y chromosome are expressed in germ cells of individuals with some Differences of Sexual Development (DSD) and a Y chromosome in their karyotype (DSD-XY groups)? SUMMARY ANSWER The GBY candidate genes DDX3Y and TSPY are expressed in the germ cells of DSD-XY patients from distinct etiologies: patients with mixed gonadal dysgenesis (MGD) and sex chromosome mosaics (45,X0/46,XY; 46,XX/46,XY); patients with complete androgen insensitivity (CAIS), patients with complete gonadal dysgenesis (CGD; e.g. Swyer syndrome). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY A GBY locus was proposed to be present on the human Y chromosome because only DSD patients with a Y chromosome in their karyotype have a high-although variable-risk (up to 55%) for germ cell tumour development. GBY was mapped to the proximal part of the short and long Y arm. TSPY located in the proximal part of the short Y arm (Yp11.1) was found to be a strong GBY candidate gene. It is expressed in the germ cells of DSD-XY patients with distinct etiologies but also in foetal and pre-meiotic male spermatogonia. However, the GBY region extends to proximal Yq11 and therefore includes probably more than one candidate gene. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Protein expression of the putative GBY candidate gene in proximal Yq11, DDX3Y, is compared with that of TSPY in serial gonadal tissue sections of 40 DSD-XY individuals from the three DSD patient groups (MGD, Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome [CAIS], CGD) with and without displaying malignancy. Expression of OCT3/4 in the same tissue samples marks the rate of pluripotent germ cells. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHOD A total of 145 DSD individuals were analysed for the Y chromosome to select the DSD-XY subgroup. PCR multiplex assays with Y gene specific marker set score for putative microdeletions in GBY Locus. Immunohistochemical experiments with specific antisera mark expression of the GBY candidate proteins, DDX3Y, TSPY, in serial sections of the gonadal tissue samples; OCT3/4 expression analyses in parallel reveal the pluripotent germ cell fraction. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Similar DDX3Y and TSPY protein expression patterns were found in the germ cells of DSD-XY patients from each subgroup, independent of age. In CAIS patients OCT3/4 expression was often found only in a fraction of these germ cells. This suggest that GBY candidate proteins are also expressed in the non-malignant germ cells of DSD-XY individuals like in male spermatogonia. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Variation of the expression profiles of GBY candidate genes in the germ cells of some DSD-XY individuals suggests distinct transcriptional and translational control mechanisms which are functioning during expression of these Y genes in the DSD-XY germ cells. Their proposed GBY tumour susceptibility function to transform these germ cells to pre-malignant GB/Germ Cell Neoplasia in Situ (GB/GCNIS) cells seems therefore to be limited and depending on their state of pluripotency. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These experimental findings are of general importance for each individual identified in the clinic with DSD and a Y chromosome in the karyotype. To judge their risk of germ cell tumour development, OCT3/4 expression analyses on their gonadal tissue section is mandatory to reveal the fraction of germ cells still being pluripotent. Comparative expression analysis of the GBY candidate genes can be helpful to reveal the fraction of germ cells with genetically still activated Y chromosomes contributing to further development of malignancy if at high expression level. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research project was supported by a grant (01GM0627) from the BMBF (Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung), Germany to P.H.V. and B.B. The authors have no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Vogt
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - B Besikoglu
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Novum, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Akazienallee 8, Essen, Germany
| | - M Bettendorf
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - P Frank-Herrmann
- Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J Zimmer
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - U Bender
- Division of Reproduction Genetics, Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - S Knauer-Fischer
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - D Choukair
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - P Sinn
- Division of Gynaecopathology, Department of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Y-F C Lau
- Division of Cell & Developmental Genetics, Department of Medicine, VAMC 111C5, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - P H Heidemann
- Children Hospital Augsburg I, Academic Hospital of University of Munich, Stenglinstraβe 2, Augsburg, Germany
| | - T Strowitzki
- Department of Gynaecol. Endocrinology & Infertility Disorders, Women Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Maxeiner S, Sester M, Krasteva-Christ G. Novel human sex-typing strategies based on the autism candidate gene NLGN4X and its male-specific gametologue NLGN4Y. Biol Sex Differ 2019; 10:62. [PMID: 31852540 PMCID: PMC6921425 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-019-0279-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since the early days of PCR techniques, sex identification, “sex-typing,” of genomic DNA samples has been a fundamental part of human forensic analysis but also in animal genetics aiming at strategic livestock breeding. Most analyses are employing the AMELX/AMELY gene loci on the X and Y chromosomes present in most mammals. We hypothesize that sex-typing in humans is also possible based on the genes NLGN4X and NLGN4Y, which represent X and Y chromosome-specific copies of a common ancestral neuroligin-4 orthologue. Methods Genomic DNA was isolated from human blood and buccal cell samples (total n = 111) and submitted to two different strategies: (a) a traditional two-primer PCR approach detecting an insertion/deletion (indel) polymorphism immediately upstream of the translational start on exon 1 and (b) detection of a single nucleotide polymorphism, SNP, on the translational stop carrying exon 7. The SNP detection was based on a quantitative PCR approach (rhAMP genotyping) employing DNA/RNA hybrid oligonucleotides that were blocked and which could only be activated upon perfect annealing to the target DNA sequence. Results All indel PCR-tested human DNA samples showed two bands for males representing X- and Y-specific copies of NLGN4 and a single band for female samples, i.e., homozygosity of NLGN4X and absence of NLGN4Y, in accordance with the self-reported sex of the donors. These results were in perfect agreement with the results of the rhAMP-based SNP-detection method: all males were consequently positive for both alleles, representing either SNP variant, and females were interpreted as homozygous regarding the SNP variant found in NLGN4X. Both methods have shown reliable and consistent results that enabled us to infer the sex of donor DNA samples across different ethnicities. Conclusions These results indicate that the detection of human NLGN4X/Y is a suitable alternative to previously reported methods employing gene loci such as AMELX/Y. Furthermore, this is the first report applying successfully the rhAMP-genotyping strategy as a means for SNP-based sex-typing, which consequently will be applicable to other gene loci or different species as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Maxeiner
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.
| | - Martina Sester
- Department of Transplant and Infection Immunology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
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Macdonald J, Kilcoyne KR, Sharpe RM, Kavanagh Á, Anderson RA, Brown P, Smith LB, Jørgensen A, Mitchell RT. DMRT1 repression using a novel approach to genetic manipulation induces testicular dysgenesis in human fetal gonads. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:2107-2121. [PMID: 30272154 PMCID: PMC6195803 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does loss of DMRT1 in human fetal testis alter testicular development and result in testicular dysgenesis? SUMMARY ANSWER DMRT1 repression in human fetal testis alters the expression of key testicular and ovarian determining genes, and leads to focal testicular dysgenesis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS) is associated with common testicular disorders in young men, but its etiology is unknown. DMRT1 has been shown to play a role in the regulation of sex differentiation in the vertebrate gonad. Downregulation of DMRT1 in male mice results in trans-differentiation of Sertoli cells into granulosa (FOXL2+) cells resulting in an ovarian gonadal phenotype. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION To determine the effect of DMRT1 repression on human fetal testes, we developed a novel system for genetic manipulation, which utilizes a Lentivral delivered miRNA during short-term in vitro culture (2 weeks). A long-term (4–6 weeks) ex vivo xenograft model was used to determine the subsequent effects of DMRT1 repression on testicular development and maintenance. We included first and second-trimester testis tissue (8–20 weeks gestation; n = 12) in the study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human fetal testes were cultured in vitro and exposed to either of two DMRT1 miRNAs (miR536, miR641), or to scrambled control miRNA, for 24 h. This was followed by a further 14 days of culture (n = 3–4), or xenografting (n = 5) into immunocompromised mice for 4–6 weeks. Tissues were analyzed by histology, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and quantitative RT-PCR. Endpoints included histological evaluation of seminiferous cord integrity, mRNA expression of testicular, ovarian and germ cell genes, and assessment of cell number and protein expression for proliferation, apoptosis and pluripotency factors. Statistical analysis was performed using a linear mixed effect model. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE DMRT1 repression (miR536/miR641) resulted in a loss of DMRT1 protein expression in a sub-population of Sertoli cells of first trimester (8–11 weeks gestation) human fetal testis; however, this did not affect the completion of seminiferous cord formation or morphological appearance. In second-trimester testis (12–20 weeks gestation), DMRT1 repression (miR536/miR641) resulted in disruption of seminiferous cords with absence of DMRT1 protein expression in Sertoli (SOX9+) cells. No differences in proliferation (Ki67+) were observed and apoptotic cells (CC3+) were rare. Expression of the Sertoli cell associated gene, SOX8, was significantly reduced (miR536, 34% reduction, P = 0.031; miR641 36% reduction, P = 0.026), whilst SOX9 expression was unaffected. Changes in expression of AMH (miR536, 100% increase, P = 0.033), CYP26B1 (miR641, 38% reduction, P = 0.05) and PTGDS (miR642, 30% reduction, P = 0.0076) were also observed. Amongst granulosa cell associated genes, there was a significant downregulation in R-spondin 1 expression (miR536, 76% reduction, P < 0.0001; miR641, 49% reduction, P = 0.046); however, there were no changes in expression of the granulosa cell marker, FOXL2. Analysis of germ cell associated genes demonstrated a significant increase in the expression of the pluripotency gene OCT4 (miR536, 233%, P < 0.001). We used the xenograft system to investigate the longer-term effects of seminiferous cord disruption via DMRT1 repression. As was evident in vitro for second-trimester samples, DMRT1 repression resulted in focal testicular dysgenesis similar to that described in adults with TDS. These dysgenetic areas were devoid of germ cells, whilst expression of FOXL2 within the dysgenetic areas, indicated trans-differentiation from a male (Sertoli cell) to female (granulosa cell) phenotype. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Human fetal testis tissue is a limited resource; however, we were able to demonstrate significant effects of DMRT1 repression on the expression of germ and somatic cell genes, in addition to the induction of focal testicular dysgenesis, using these limited samples. In vitro culture may not reflect all aspects of human fetal testis development and function; however, the concurrent use of the xenograft model which represents a more physiological system supports the validity of the in vitro findings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings have important implications for understanding the role of DMRT1 in human testis development and in the origin of testicular dysgenesis. In addition, we provide validation of a novel system that can be used to determine the effects of repression of genes that have been implicated in gonadal development and associated human reproductive disorders. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This project was funded by a Wellcome Trust Intermediate Clinical Fellowship (Grant No. 098522) awarded to RTM. LBS was supported by MRC Programme Grant MR/N002970/1. RAA was supported by MRC Programme Grant G1100357/1. RMS was supported by MRC Programme Grant G33253. This work was undertaken in the MRC Centre for Reproductive Health which is funded by the MRC Centre grant MR/N022556/1. The funding bodies had no input into the conduct of the research or the production of this manuscript. The authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joni Macdonald
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Karen R Kilcoyne
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Richard M Sharpe
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Áine Kavanagh
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Pamela Brown
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Lee B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.,School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.,Edinburgh Royal Hospital for Sick Children, 9 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
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13
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Neuroinflammation in preterm babies and autism spectrum disorders. Pediatr Res 2019; 85:155-165. [PMID: 30446768 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-018-0208-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Genetic anomalies have a role in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Each genetic factor is responsible for a small fraction of cases. Environment factors, like preterm delivery, have an important role in ASD. Preterm infants have a 10-fold higher risk of developing ASD. Preterm birth is often associated with maternal/fetal inflammation, leading to a fetal/neonatal inflammatory syndrome. There are demonstrated experimental links between fetal inflammation and the later development of behavioral symptoms consistent with ASD. Preterm infants have deficits in connectivity. Most ASD genes encode synaptic proteins, suggesting that ASD are connectivity pathologies. Microglia are essential for normal synaptogenesis. Microglia are diverted from homeostatic functions towards inflammatory phenotypes during perinatal inflammation, impairing synaptogenesis. Preterm infants with ASD have a different phenotype from term born peers. Our original hypothesis is that exposure to inflammation in preterm infants, combined with at risk genetic background, deregulates brain development leading to ASD.
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Jackson M, Marks L, May GHW, Wilson JB. The genetic basis of disease. Essays Biochem 2018; 62:643-723. [PMID: 30509934 PMCID: PMC6279436 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20170053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Genetics plays a role, to a greater or lesser extent, in all diseases. Variations in our DNA and differences in how that DNA functions (alone or in combinations), alongside the environment (which encompasses lifestyle), contribute to disease processes. This review explores the genetic basis of human disease, including single gene disorders, chromosomal imbalances, epigenetics, cancer and complex disorders, and considers how our understanding and technological advances can be applied to provision of appropriate diagnosis, management and therapy for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jackson
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K
| | - Leah Marks
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K
| | - Gerhard H W May
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Joanna B Wilson
- School of Life Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K
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15
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Nef S, Wilhelm D. The impact of new technologies in our understanding of testis formation and function. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 468:1-2. [PMID: 29807571 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dagmar Wilhelm
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
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