Intersex. I. Genes involved in male sex determination [Intersexo. I - Genes envolvidos na determinação do sexo masculino]

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2005

Authors

Sa, R (Author) Other; sousa, m (Author) ICBAS; barros, a (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Nascer e Crescer

Vol. 14

Pages: 292-299

ISSN: 0872-0754

Publisher: Korean Society of Pharmacognosy

Indexing

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-007-F9K

Abstract (EN): In this article we update the embryology of the male reproductive system and present the genes that control sex determination (gonadal sex) and sex differentiation (genital sex). In the embryonic bipotent gonad, the NR5A1(SF1) and WT1(-KTS) genes interact to activate the SRY gene, whereas the interaction between the WNT4 and WT7(-KTS) genes activate the feminizing genes NROB1(DAX1) and SOX3. SRY then causes the determination of the bipotent gonad into the testicle, by inducing Sertoli cell differentiation and by inhibitting DAX1/ SOX3. Sex differentiation is thereafter a consequence of SOX8, SOX9, NR5A1, GATA4 and WT1(+KTS) gene interaction under SRY potentiation. In this mechanism, Sertoli cells secrete the anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) and cause Leydig cell differentiation. AMH declanches the atrophy of the Muller ducts and therein impedes development of the female phenotype. Under the control of corionic gonadotrofin (HCG), Leydig cells secrete testosterone, which is then partially metabolized into 5-dihydro-testosterone. Under the control of the CFTR gene, testosterone promotes the differentiation of the Wolff ducts into a reproductive half (efferent ducts, epididymis, vasa deferens, seminal vesicles, ejaculatory ducts), whereas 5-dihydro-testosterone induces the differentiation of the Wolff ducts into a urinary half (prostate, uretra, penis, scrotum).

Language: Portuguese

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific