The Drosophila doublesex (dsx) gene is active in both males and females, but its primary transcript is processed in a sex-specific manner.

TLS Online TPP Program

#Id: 1016

#Unit 5. Developmental Biology

In Drosophila, the X chromosome contains genes encoding four transcription factors that activate the critical gene in Drosophila sex determination, the X-linked locus Sex-lethal (Sxl).

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#Id: 1017

#Unit 5. Developmental Biology

Three major RNA targets to which the female-specific Sxl transcript binds: 

Pre-mRNA of Sxl itself

msl2 gene

pre-mRNA of transformer (tra)

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#Id: 1019

#Unit 5. Developmental Biology

The processes by which the three ectodermal regions are made physically and functionally distinct from one another is called neurulation.

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#Id: 1020

#Unit 5. Developmental Biology

Specification of the ectoderm is accomplished during gastrulation, by regulating the levels of BMP.

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#Id: 1021

#Unit 5. Developmental Biology

The vertebrate ectoderm, has 3 major responsibilities:

1. One part will become the neural plate

2. One part will become the epidermis

3. One part will become the neural crest

TLS Online TPP Program

#Id: 1022

#Unit 5. Developmental Biology

High levels of BMP specify the cells to become epidermis.