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Amplification of the Zfy and Zfx Genes for Sex Identification in Humans, Cattle, Sheep and Goats

Bio/Technology volume 8, pages 1279–1281 (1990)Cite this article

Abstract

We describe a quick and efficient method of determining the sex of DNA samples from humans, cattle, sheep, and goats. Using universal primers we have amplified 447 or 445 bp fragments from male or female genomic DNA corresponding to the ZFY or ZFX genes. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of the fragments yielded specific banding patterns between the two sexes in these species. Horse, pig and rainbow trout fragments did not show RFLPs with the group of enzymes chosen for the other species. Use of this method would allow animal breeders to determine the sex of preimplantation embryos before transfer to recipient females. Human embryos at risk for sex-linked disorders could be sexed soon after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and options considered before implantation.

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Author notes

  1. Juan Fernando Medrano: Corresponding author.

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, 95616-8521

    Eric Aasen & Juan Fernando Medrano

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  1. Eric Aasen
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  2. Juan Fernando Medrano
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Aasen, E., Medrano, J. Amplification of the Zfy and Zfx Genes for Sex Identification in Humans, Cattle, Sheep and Goats. Nat Biotechnol 8, 1279–1281 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt1290-1279

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt1290-1279

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