The principal long-term goal of this project is identification of the male-determining gene(s) on the human Y chromosome, and analysis of the structure and function of that gene or gene complex. Should this line of inquiry lead to identification of a putative male-determining gene, that gene or its mouse homolog will be introduced into mouse embryos to test its ability to induce testicular differentiation. These studies may result in a highly defined mouse model for the study of abnormal sexual development. The search for this male-determining gene will entail detailed study at the DNA level of the sex chromosomes of human sex reversal mutants (e.g., XX males and Xy females). The chromosomal basis of these sex reversal/infertility syndromes will thereby be elucidated. Regions of DNA sequence homology between the human X and Y chromosomes will be examined. In particular, the nature and evolutionary origin of substantial homologies between the short arm of the Y and the long arm of the X will be explored.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
1R01HD022532-01
Application #
3322158
Study Section
Mammalian Genetics Study Section (MGN)
Project Start
1986-12-01
Project End
1991-11-30
Budget Start
1986-12-01
Budget End
1987-11-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1987
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research
Department
Type
DUNS #
076580745
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02142
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