Genetic dissection of gonad formation and sex determination

Objective

To unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying proper mammalian development is one of the most pressing tasks for modern biomedical science. The complicated processes leading to genetic disease can only be understood, if we comprehend normal development. To study differentiation processes we have decided to focus on the development of the go- and, which is widely believed to be the best model system. We are planning to elucidate differentiation on a molecular level using a variety of approaches. In vitro studies will be performed to define interactions between known factors. Transgenic and knock-out animals will be generated to analyse gene function in an in vivo environment. Positional cloning of genes from patients with sex-reversal phenotypes will be used to identify new players in the explore patterns of evaluation in this highly diverged system.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-8. - Research into genomes and diseases of genetic origin

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Address

Central Parkway
NE1 3BZ Newcastle Upon Tyne
United Kingdom

Participants (3)

CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE

France

Address

Rue De La Cardonille 141
34396 Montpellier

MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL

United Kingdom

Address

Crewe Road Western General Hospital
EH4 2XU Edinburgh

UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI PAVIA

Italy

Address

Via Forlanini 14
27100 Pavia