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Comparative mapping of CDY and DAZ in higher primates
1Institute of Human Genetics and Anthropology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
Cytogenetic and Genome Research
|November 20, 2002
Summary
Gene families CDY and DAZ on the human Y chromosome show diverse patterns across species. These variations evolved rapidly in the Y chromosome
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Evolutionary Biology
- Human Reproduction
Background:
- The CDY and DAZ gene families are specifically expressed in human males.
- These genes are known to form repetitive clusters within the Y-specific region of the human Y chromosome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the evolutionary patterns of CDY and DAZ gene families.
- To compare the organization of these gene families across human and great ape Y chromosomes.
Main Methods:
- Comparative Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) mapping was employed.
- DNA clones specific for CDY and DAZ were used to analyze Y chromosome regions.
Main Results:
- FISH mapping revealed diverse, Y-specific signal patterns for CDY and DAZ.
- These patterns were observed within the non-recombining region of Y chromosomes in humans and great apes.
- Evidence suggests species-specific amplifications, diversifications, and rearrangements occurred in this region.
Conclusions:
- The non-recombining portion of the Y chromosome, including CDY and DAZ, has undergone significant evolutionary changes.
- Rapid fixation of these genetic variations was possible if male fertility was not compromised.