Transcriptional Control of Male-specific Pathway in Temperature-dependent Sex Determination

In the accompanying study, we demonstrated the thermal switch mechanism within thermosensitive steroidogenic cells (TSSCs) that triggers the male development pathway in turtles. However, the transcriptional regulatory mechanisms linking TSSCs' cold sensitivity with pre-Sertoli cell specification remain elusive.

Herein, we elucidate the regulatory schema governing the male determination pathway, including Ca2+-induced aldosterone synthesis in TSSCs and subsequent aldosterone-driven transcriptional modulation in pre-supporting cells. Aldosterone-bound NR3C1, a master regulator of male determination pathway, activates DMRT1 gene expression, culminating in pre-Sertoli specification. Therefore, our findings suggest a conserved male-specific pathway in turtles.