SRY
SRY (sex-determining region Y protein, also known as TDF) is an HMG-box transcription factor that acts as the genetic switch for male development. It initiates male sex determination by directing supporting cell precursors towards a Sertoli cell fate. Browse Assay Genie's current range of SRY research reagents below, or read on for the biology behind the target.
SRY is a transcriptional regulator that controls a genetic switch in male development. It is necessary and sufficient for initiating male sex determination, directing pre-Sertoli supporting cell precursors to develop as Sertoli cells rather than granulosa cells. The protein takes part in several aspects of gene regulation, including both promoter activation and repression, and it has also been linked to pre-mRNA splicing.
The SRY protein binds the DNA consensus sequence 5'-[AT]AACAA[AT]-3'. Its HMG box recognises DNA by partial intercalation in the minor groove and promotes DNA bending. UniProt places it in the SRY family, and HGNC classifies it within the SRY-box transcription factors. Its subcellular locations include nuclear speckles, the nucleus more broadly and the cytoplasm. In the adult male brain, SRY contributes to maintaining the motor functions of dopaminergic neurons.
The SRY gene is intronless and encodes a member of the high mobility group (HMG)-box family of DNA-binding proteins. Because the protein initiates male sex determination, it is also called the testis-determining factor (TDF). Mutations in the SRY gene give rise to XY females with gonadal dysgenesis (Swyer syndrome), while translocation of part of the Y chromosome carrying the gene to the X chromosome causes XX male syndrome. Mouse and rat both have an orthologous Sry gene, so the factor can be studied in rodent models.
SRY initiates male sex determination by directing pre-Sertoli cell precursors to become Sertoli rather than granulosa cells.
The SRY HMG box binds a defined DNA motif, bends DNA and can activate or repress promoters.
SRY mutations give rise to XY females with gonadal dysgenesis, and Y-to-X translocation causes XX male syndrome.
In the male adult brain, SRY helps maintain the motor functions of dopaminergic neurons.
SRY is a transcription factor that acts as a genetic switch for male development. It is necessary and sufficient to initiate male sex determination, directing pre-Sertoli cells to become Sertoli cells rather than granulosa cells. It also functions in gene regulation, pre-mRNA splicing and dopaminergic neuron motor function.
SRY stands for sex determining region Y, and UniProt names the protein sex-determining region Y protein. Its alias is TDF, short for testis-determining factor, reflecting its role in initiating male sex determination. HGNC groups it with the SRY-box transcription factors.
Mouse and rat each carry an orthologous Sry gene. In humans, SRY mutations cause XY females with gonadal dysgenesis (Swyer syndrome), and translocation of the gene to the X chromosome causes XX male syndrome. Check the datasheet of any product for its validated reactivity.
Other SRY-box transcription factors and sex-determination pathway targets with products at Assay Genie.
Gene and protein annotations from HGNC, NCBI Gene and UniProt Q05066; product specifications from Assay Genie datasheets.