Publisher's Synopsis
For centuries we have puzzled over the differences between males and females but only recently have we begun to understand the genetic switches that trigger the dramatic differences in form and function between the sexes. This book brings together contributions from many of the scientists who have been responsible for recent advances in our understanding of sex determination and sexual differentiation. The editors have succeeded in melding them into a cohesive volume that provides a statement of current knowledge and a solid framework for future studies.;The emphasis throughout is on the genetic determinants of sex. The major issues addressed are sex chromosome differentiation, X-chromosome inactivation and the role of the Y-linked gene SRY in gonad differentiation. A combination of authoritative reviews and original articles drawn from experiment and observation on a variety of systems is complemented by the editors' introductions.
