AI Article Synopsis
- Mammalian sex determination relies on the SRY gene; its presence leads to testis development via specific gene expression pathways.
- A study identified a new gene called Maestro (Mro) that shows male-specific expression early in gonad development and is essential for testis cord formation.
- Maestro encodes a protein that localizes in the nucleolus and is linked to a region on chromosome 18 associated with XX sex reversal, suggesting a role in sex determination processes.
Article Abstract
Mammalian sex determination depends on the presence or absence of SRY transcripts in the embryonic gonad. Expression of SRY initiates a pathway of gene expression resulting in testis development. Here, we describe a novel gene potentially functioning in this pathway using a cDNA microarray screen for genes exhibiting sexually dimorphic expression during murine gonad development. Maestro (Mro) transcripts are first detected in the developing male gonad before overt testis differentiation. By 12.5 days postcoitus (dpc), Mro transcription is restricted to the developing testis cords and its expression is not germ cell-dependent. No expression is observed in female gonads between 10.5 and 14.5 dpc. Maestro encodes a protein containing HEAT-like repeats that localizes to the nucleolus in cell transfection assays. Maestro maps to a region of mouse chromosome 18 containing a genetic modifier of XX sex reversal. We discuss the possible function of Maestro in light of these data.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
|---|---|
| http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/dvdy.10342 | DOI Listing |
Publication Analysis
Top Keywords
Similar Publications
The encoded transcript of the Maestro-Male-specific Transcription in the developing Reproductive Organs (MRO) gene exhibits sexual dimorphic expression during murine gonadal development. The gene has no homology to any known gene and its expression pattern, protein function or structure are still unknown. Previously, studying gene expression in human ovarian cumulus cells, we found increased expression of MRO in lean-type Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) subjects, as compared to controls.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe Maestro (Mro) gene is dispensable for normal sexual development and fertility in mice.
PLoS One
February 2009
Mammalian Genetics Unit, MRC Harwell, Oxfordshire, UK.
The mammalian gonad arises as a bipotential primordium from which a testis or ovary develops depending on the chromosomal sex of the individual. We have previously used DNA microarrays to screen for novel genes controlling the developmental fate of the indifferent embryonic mouse gonad. Maestro (Mro), which encodes a HEAT-repeat protein, was originally identified as a gene exhibiting sexually dimorphic expression during mouse gonad development.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFCandidate testis-determining gene, Maestro (Mro), encodes a novel HEAT repeat protein.
Dev Dyn
August 2003
MRC Mammalian Genetics Unit, Harwell, Didcot, United Kingdom.
Article Synopsis
- Mammalian sex determination relies on the SRY gene; its presence leads to testis development via specific gene expression pathways.
- A study identified a new gene called Maestro (Mro) that shows male-specific expression early in gonad development and is essential for testis cord formation.
- Maestro encodes a protein that localizes in the nucleolus and is linked to a region on chromosome 18 associated with XX sex reversal, suggesting a role in sex determination processes.
Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?
Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!