Abstract
SOX8, which belongs to SOXE transcription factor subfamily together with SOX9, participates in sex differentiation and testicular development by enhancing the function of SOX9 in mammals. However, the functional role of SOX8 in sex differentiation has not yet been identified in any non-mammalian vertebrates. Here, we found in the Chinese soft-shelled turtle Pelodiscus sinensis that SOX8 exhibited male-specific higher expression from stage 14 to 18, the critical period of sex determination, prior to the onset of gonadal differentiation. In addition, SOX8 was rapidly down-regulated during male-to-female sex reversal induced by estradiol. Moreover, knockdown of SOX8 led to complete feminization of ZZ P. sinensis, determined by gonadal morphology and distribution of germ cells, as well as the down-regulation of testicular marker DMRT1 and the up-regulation of ovarian regulator FOXL2. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that SOX8 is a key regulator of early male differentiation in P. sinensis, highlighting the significance of the SOX family in reptile sex determination.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.