Final answer:
The SRY gene is responsible for testicular development and the suppression of genes important in female development. It is not directly involved in ovarian development, production of androgens, or the suppression of androgens. Option B and C is correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The SRY gene plays a critical role in sex differentiation during embryonic development, particularly for males. In the presence of this gene, the gonads develop into testes, initiating a cascade of gene activations that result in the formation of male sex characteristics. The SRY gene, located on the Y chromosome, works as a transcription factor that, along with SF1 protein, stimulates testicular development and suppresses the development of female reproductive structures.
Therefore, the functions of the SRY gene include:
- Testicular development: The gene recruits other genes to start the process of transforming the bipotential gonadal tissue into testes.
- Suppression of genes important in female development: It inhibits the expression of genes that would lead to ovarian development.
On the other hand, the SRY gene does not play a direct role in:
- Ovarian development: In the absence of the SRY gene, ovaries form instead.
- Production of androgens: While the development of testes eventually leads to androgen production, the SRY gene itself is not directly responsible for producing these hormones.
- Suppression of androgens: The gene's role is not to suppress androgen production, but rather to stimulate the development of testes, which will ultimately produce androgens.
The correct options related to the functions of the SRY gene are b) Testicular development and c) Suppression of genes important in female development.