Explain how the SRY gene induces the development of testes and the male reproductive tract
What will be an ideal response?
ANSWER: The SRY gene becomes active in the seventh week of embryonic development. The protein
encoded by the gene sets a molecular switch that causes the primitive gonads to develop
into testes. The fetal testes then secrete two hormones, testosterone and the anti-Müllerian
hormone (AMH). The testosterone stimulates development of the Wolffian ducts into the
male reproductive tract, including the epididymis, vas deferens, and seminal vesicles.
Testosterone additionally stimulates the development of the male genitalia. AMH
stimulates Müllerian duct regression.
You might also like to view...
Coral mucus is used by reef dwellers as a food source
Indicate whether the statement is true or false
A type III survivorship curve is characteristic
of
a. dogs. b. goats. c. hawks. d. clams. e. horses
The diameter of a tree increases due to new growth in the
A. bark. B. xylem. C. cambium. D. All of these answers are true.
If you found the same number of short tandem repeats at three different locations in two samples of DNA, what would you conclude?
A) Both samples were from females. B) Both samples were from males. C) The two samples were most likely from the same individual. D) The two samples were from different individuals.