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The role of non-coding RNAs in male sex determination and differentiation
Raphael H Rastetter1, Craig A Smith2, Dagmar Wilhelm2
1Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyMonash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.
Abstract:
A complex network of gene regulation and interaction drives male sex determination and differentiation. While many important protein-coding genes that are necessary for proper male development have been identified, many disorders in human sex development are still unexplained at the molecular level. This suggests that key factors and regulatory mechanisms are still unknown. In recent years, extensive data have shown that different classes of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a role in almost all developmental and physiological pathways. Here we review what is known about their role in male sex determination and differentiation not only in mammals, but also other species. While for some processes a key role for ncRNA has been identified, we are still far from having a complete picture.
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