Sex differentiation in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua L.): morphological and gene expression studies.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In differentiated gonochoristic species, a bipotential gonad develops into an ovary or testis during sex differentiation. Knowledge about this process is necessary to improve methods for masculinizing genetically female Atlantic cod for the subsequent purpose of producing all-female populations.

Methods

Gonads were examined histologically in juveniles from 14 to 39 mm total body length (TL). Number and size of germ cells were determined in a subset of the samples. Relevant genes were cloned, and mRNA levels determined by qPCR of amh, cyp19a1a; dax1 (nr0b2); shp (nr0b2a) and sox9b in a mixed-sex and an all-female population ranging from 12-49 mm TL.

Results

Individuals between 14-20 mm TL could be separated in two subgroups based on gonad size and germ cell

SUBMITTER: Haugen T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3433390 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature