Equality for X chromosomes.
In many species, females possess two X chromosomes and males have one X chromosome. This difference is critical for the initial determination of sex. However, the X encodes many functions required equally in males and females; thus, X chromosome expression must be adjusted to compensate for the difference in dosage between the sexes. Distinct dosage compensation mechanisms have evolved in different species. A common theme in the Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans systems is that a subtle alteration of chromatin structure may impose this modest, but vital adjustment of the X chromosome transcription level.
Kelley
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RL
Department of Cell Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Kuroda
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MI
D000818:Animals; D017173:Caenorhabditis elegans / Q000235:genetics*; D004303:Dosage Compensation, Genetic; D029721:Drosophila Proteins; D004331:Drosophila melanogaster / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D017238:Genes, Helminth; D017344:Genes, Insect; D008297:Male; D009687:Nuclear Proteins / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D016601:RNA-Binding Proteins / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D012727:Sex Characteristics; D014157:Transcription Factors / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D014960:X Chromosome / Q000235:genetics*
D029721:Drosophila Proteins; D009687:Nuclear Proteins; D016601:RNA-Binding Proteins; C067777:Sxl protein, Drosophila; D014157:Transcription Factors