Genetics and Biology of Sex Determination

Although nature employs a wide variety of sex-determining mechanisms, it is only comparatively recently that the tools have become available for these to be explored at the molecular and cellular levels. A major landmark was the discovery in 1990 of the Sry gene and the subsequent demonstration of its key role in triggering male sex determination in transgenic mice. Since that time, while other key genes in the sex-determining pathway have been uncovered, the story remains far from complete. This ground-breaking book draws together leading researchers to review and discuss the most recent advances in the understanding of the molecular genetic pathways of sex determination. Coverage includes the genetics and biochemistry of mammalian sex determination, comparisons with other modes of sex determination, and consideration of the biology of sexual development and of the evolution of sex-determining mechanisms. A major theme running through several chapters is the value of comparative studies of sex-determining mechanisms in different species. In addition, clinical aspects and the genetic analysis of anomalies of human sexual development are also addressed. This exciting book reviews much new and exciting work in this area and identifies promising new research directions.Chadwick, Derek is the author of 'Genetics and Biology of Sex Determination' with ISBN 9780470843468 and ISBN 0470843462.