Wednesday 14 August 2019

The New 'X' Files?

It has apparently proved possible to separate X and Y human sperm on the basis of their differential movement (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2019/aug/13/sperm-separation-method-may-allow-gender-selection-in-ivf). This might well lead to the technique being used to specify sex in in vitro fertilisation programmes. Although favouring one sex is generally a bad idea (particularly seen in some cultures), there are some genetic conditions where specifying the sex could reduce the risk of passing on harmful conditions.

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What's In a Critter's Name? 2. Bloody-nosed beetle

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