Between XX and XY by Gerald Callahan

Author:Gerald Callahan
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Chicago Review Press
Published: 2009-11-15T00:00:00+00:00

Normal Chromosomes Wearing Abnormal Genes

Like a typewriter with a bad key, sometimes a chromosome taps out a story peppered with mistakes. Every time the writer reaches for an “o,” the typewriter slaps down an “e.” “Looking forward” becomes “leeking ferward.” The sense of it blurs and the story takes an abrupt swing.

When a chromosome does that, people change in unpredictable ways.

Besides the genes found on X and Y chromosomes, there are several other genes involved in the sexual development of the fetus. We already know of nearly two dozen such genes, and undoubtedly there are more. A detailed consideration of the enzymes involved in sex development—the nature of each of these enzymes and the corresponding genes, as well as the consequences of mutations—is more than this book can handle. But with so many genes involved, the alternative outcomes of fetal sexual development are like the birds of the air—varied and wondrous. But, also like birds, some are so especially wondrous they deserve a little more attention.

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