Major β cell-specific functions of NKX2.2 are mediated via the NK2-specific domain.

The consolidation of unambiguous cell fate commitment relies on the ability of transcription factors (TFs) to exert tissue-specific regulation of complex genetic networks. However, the mechanisms by which TFs establish such precise control over gene expression have remained elusive-especially in instances in which a single TF operates in two or more discrete cellular systems. In this study, we demonstrate that β cell-specific functions of NKX2.

Ghrelin is dispensable for embryonic pancreatic islet development and differentiation.

Ghrelin is a peptide hormone that has been implicated in the regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis. Ghrelin is predominantly produced in the stomach, but is also expressed in many other tissues where its functions are not well characterized. In the rodent and human pancreas, ghrelin levels peak at late gestation and gradually decline postnatally.

Nkx2.2 regulates cell fate choice in the enteroendocrine cell lineages of the intestine.

Nkx2.2 is a homeodomain-containing transcription factor essential for pancreatic islet cell specification. In this study we investigate the role of Nkx2.

The effect of aromatase inhibition on the sexual differentiation of the sheep brain.

This study tested the hypothesis that aromatization of testosterone to estradiol is necessary for sexual differentiation of the sheep brain. Pregnant ewes (n = 10) were treated with the aromatase inhibitor 1,4,6- androstatriene-3,17-dione (ATD) during the period of gestation when the sheep brain is maximally sensitive to the behavior-modifying effects of exogenous testosterone (embryonic d 50-80; 147 d is term). Control (n = 10) ewes received vehicle injections.

Sexual partner preference, hypothalamic morphology and aromatase in rams.

The male-oriented ram is a unique and valuable animal model for the study of hormonal, developmental and genetic contributions to sexual partner preference. Unlike most other mammalian models that are in use currently, variations in sexual attraction occur spontaneously in domestic ram populations. It is estimated that as many as 8-10% of rams exhibit a sexual partner preference for other males, classifying them as male-oriented rams.