Sex Determination - The Meaning of Sex: Genes & Gender

The process of becoming a male or a female is complex and intricate. Researchers are gaining intriguing insights into how chromosomes, genes, and molecules are involved in sex determination. Dr. David C. Page explains the role of the human sex chromosomes, describing the evolution of the Y chromosome and the problems that arise in males when portions of the chromosome are deleted. Dr. Barbara J. Meyer looks at the genetic systems in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, which can develop either as male or a hermaphrodite. The scientists explore topics such as the role of sex, the evolution of the human sex chromosomes, human infertility, and the advantages of studying sex in a simple organism such as C. elegans. DVD includes detailed chapter search by scientific topic, direct access to animations and demonstrations, English subtitles, interviews with the speakers, and an interactive activity on gender testing. Presented at HHMI's 2001 Holiday Lectures on Science. Lecture time approx. 240 min.