Table 3 Summary interpretation of the differential gene expression analysis. The characterization of the biological processes relies on the gene ontology enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes. Feminization and masculinization represent the situation where few genes (< 100) are detected as differentially expressed, under EE2 treatment, in comparison to control female or control male, respectively. See Additional file 1: Figure S4 and Tables S1-S5 for more detailed information
Developmental stage | Sex differences in gene expression a | EE2-effects in males | EE2- effects in females |
|---|---|---|---|
Embryos | Weak | ~ 1% of the genes are affected, some related to the development of the nervous system. | None detected. |
Hatchlings | Strong | Up to 18% of the genes are affected, enriched in association to muscle and connective tissues. Possible transient feminization. | Up to half of the genes are affected. Possible masculinization. |
Juveniles | Strong | A few genes only are affected. | Up to 25% of the genes are affected, enriched in association to insulin metabolism and heart development. Possible masculinization persists. |