Sex-specific developmental gene expression atlas unveils dimorphic gene networks in C. elegans.

ABSTRACT: Sex-specific traits and behaviors emerge during development by the acquisition of unique properties in the nervous system of each sex. However, the genetic events responsible for introducing these sex-specific features remain poorly understood. In this study, we create a comprehensive gene expression atlas of pure populations of hermaphrodites and males of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans across development. We discover numerous differentially expressed genes, including neuronal gene families like transcription factors, neuropeptides, and G protein-coupled receptors. We identify INS-39, an insulin-like peptide, as a prominent male-biased gene expressed specifically in ciliated sensory neurons. We show that INS-39 serves as an early-stage male marker, facilitating the effective isolation

SUBMITTER: Haque R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11106331 | biostudies-literature | 2024 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature